Solar Intentions

Tucked into the historic Bryn Mawr corridor of Edgewater, about a block from the Bryn Mawr Red Line stop, Solar Intentions is Chicago's dedicated zero-proof bottle shop and social hangout. Every product on the shelves and in the cold fridge is non-alcoholic — there is no split personality here between an NA section and a full bar. The 1,000-square-foot, ground-level storefront is fully accessible and designed to function as a genuine third space: you can grab something to drink on-site, browse the retail shelves for a bottle to take home, or simply settle in for an event. It draws sober locals, sober-curious visitors, and anyone who just doesn't feel like drinking that day.

The shop is the project of owner Morgan Martinez, who opened Solar Intentions in April 2025 after a $47,000 Kickstarter campaign. Martinez reached one year of intentional sobriety on January 1, 2023, and shaped the shop around her own interests in astrology and community — the aesthetic leans into tarot and cosmic imagery rather than the clinical wellness branding common to the NA category. The retail selection spans NA beer, wine, spirits, and ready-to-drink canned mocktails, with a cold case for anything you want to open right there on the couch. Pick-up and local delivery are also available through the website.

Solar Intentions stands out in Chicago's growing sober scene because it isn't a bar trying to accommodate non-drinkers — it was built from scratch for them. The vibe is relaxed and neighborhood-focused: regulars linger to talk, the space hosts community events and workshops, and the ownership is visibly present. No dress code, no reservations needed for a casual visit. It's a good fit for solo explorers new to the NA category, sober LGBTQ+ Chicagoans looking for a home base, or anyone wanting a social outing that doesn't revolve around alcohol. The Bryn Mawr Red Line stop makes it easy to reach from anywhere on the North Side.