During January in London, we see two extremes: gloomy weather, cold sidewalks, bright storefronts, and the commotion of Oxford Street. However, the month is additionally defined by one of the most important wellness movements of the year: Dry January, which takes place this year in 2026.
Just a short walk away from all the excitement, behind Selfridges, on 21 James St., you can find Kula Cafe, a family-owned Halal and alcohol-free coffee house and eatery that has been at the forefront of sober socialising for almost 20 years.
What is Dry January?
Dry January 2026 has evolved from deprivation to a way to practice mindfulness with everyday choices and create spaces for enjoying indulgent experiences & socializing with friends/others to be the best version of yourself.
Additionally, as more and more people are choosing to live alcohol-free, in addition to detoxing, both residents and visitors of London want to find venues where they can consume delicious alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages together.
For people looking for mocktails close to Oxford Street, a halal cafe in Marylebone, or simply a chic place to enjoy a drink and socialise during Dry January without restrictions, Kula Cafe is an excellent choice.
The Evolution of Sober Socialising in London
The sober curious movement in London has changed the way people think about things, and as such, people are actively looking for:
- Non-alcoholic bars and cafes in London
- Premium, complex, and craft quality mocktails
- Halal-Friendly Spaces around Oxford Street
- Wellness cafe that serves CBD and matcha
Kula Cafe is situated at the crossroads of all four. Each beverage is crafted with the same care as a cocktail, but lacking the alcohol content, and creates depth, texture, and a polished appearance. See below for the seven best mocktails and hot stuff to get through Dry January in Marylebone.
1. Signature Karak Chai (Indian-Style)
Karak Chai has become the number one drink of choice among South Asian Cafe patrons during the winter months.
Tasting Notes:
Strong black tea with cardamom, cloves, and fresh ginger boiled down, with the added benefit of being filled with creamy milk, providing a rich and warming finish.
Why it’s ideal for Dry January:
Karak chai is an excellent source of energy and will warm you without the need for alcohol and without being overly caffeinated. As people flock to Selfridges to shop, Karak chai will also be a great option for those looking for a halal-friendly cafe pause.
2. Saffron Latte: The Richest Alcohol-Free Treat
Saffron is one of the flavour profiles of functional flavour drinks, and so it continues to be one of the most sought-after.
Flavour Profile:
Saffron is floral, mildly sweet, and aromatic, and is made with condensed milk and premium saffron threads.
Wellness Benefits:
Saffron, often referred to as “Sunshine Spice,” supports a positive mood, making this latte popular for the January blues and non-alcoholic beverages offered in Marylebone.
3. Non-Alcoholic Sangria: One of Central London’s Best Mocktails
This drink is a great option for guests looking to maintain the tradition of sharing drinks with friends while still keeping with the alcohol-free theme.
Tasting Notes:
Deep red fruit flavours with hints of citrus and gentle botanical spices give a sophisticated mouthfeel.
Best enjoyed when:
During group brunches, sober celebrations, or a laid-back afternoon on James Street, this mocktail is a top recommendation for anyone searching for mocktails near Oxford Street.
4. The Kula Libre: A Signature Alcohol-Free Cocktail
Based on the classic highball, this handmade, fully Halal, alcohol-free cocktail is inspired by the original.
Tasting Notes:
Freshly squeezed lime juice, fizzy cola, raspberries, freshly squeezed orange juice, and muddled mint give it a bright citrus-berry flavour combination.
Why do customers love it?
It is refreshing, beautiful, complex, and one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ alcohol-free mocktails in London. The Kula Libre has grown in popularity for late-night, alcohol-free social events in Marylebone.
5. Pistachio Creme Brulee Hot Beverage
Pistachio is one of the most desired coffee shop flavours for 2026 in London, and this beverage features a decadent blend of ingredients.
Tasting Notes:
Dates, pulverised pistachios, honey, and condensed milk are topped with a creamy layer.
When to order it:
For people looking for a healthy alternative to regular sugary treats, Kula Cafe is the best place for Halal desserts.
6. Dragonfly CBD Matcha
Dragonfly CBD Matcha has become very popular with health-conscious individuals who are looking for ways to promote mental well-being this month.
Sweetness Level:
Dragonfly CBD Matcha has a rich flavour profile that will appeal to many vegan and omnivore health followers. The drink contains ceremonial-grade matcha, coconut milk, dragonfruit, strawberries, and 10 mg of CBD.
Primary Function:
Dragonfly CBD Matcha is designed for people who want to relax and de-stress during dry January, while still being able to consume clean and sustained energy. Dragonfly CBD Matcha is one of the best places in London to get CBD drinks and find wellness Cafes.
7. Pink Kashmiri Chai (Noon Chai)
Noon Chai, or Pink Kashmiri Chai, is one of the more visually impressive teas in Central London and has been in existence for centuries.
Sweetness Level:
The tea is a blend of green tea, cardamom, cinnamon, and star anise, and topped with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios. It can be enjoyed sweetened or lightly salted.
The teabags’ signature pink colour and creamy consistency make it one of the most photographed drinks in Marylebone Cafes and combine old-world traditions with modern Cafe culture.
Why Is It Iconic?
It is one of the most photographed drinks in Marylebone cafes because of the bright pink colour and soft creamy texture; it represents a blend of heritage with today’s cafe culture.
The Dry January 2026 Kula Cafe: Comparison Table for Mocktail & Hot Drinks
| Drink Name | Type | Main Purpose | Taste Profile | Best Times For |
| Karak Chai (Indian Style) | Hot Drink | Provides energy/Warmth | Spice, Creamy, Aromatic | Morning/Midday |
| Saffron Latte | Hot Drink | Mood Enhancer | Floral, Sweet, Luxurious | Morning Meetings/Afternoon |
| Sangria – Alcohol Free | Mocktail | Provides Social Connections | Fruit, Citric, Botanical | Brunch/Daytime Socials |
| Kula Libre | Mocktail | Provides Refreshment | Citrus, Berry, Minty | Evening/Late Night |
| Pistachio Crème Brûlée | Hot Dessert Drink | Provides Indulgence | Nutty, Sweet, Caramelized | Afternoon Treats |
| Dragonfly CBD Matcha | Wellness Drink | Provides Stress Relief/Focus Earthy | Creamy | Post-Gym/Mid-Day |
| Pink Kashmiri Chai (Noon Chai) | Traditional Tea | Provides Comfort/Ritual | Creamy, Spiced, Unique | All Day Longing for a Cultural Experience |
Why is Kula Cafe One of the Best Halal Cafes in London?
When you choose to support cafes that promote inclusivity and acceptance, rather than compromise, the transition into Dry January becomes much easier! Central London-based Kula Cafe is located just a three-minute walk from Bond Street Station and is conveniently located close to Oxford Street. Dry January becomes easier when you choose to use spaces that were designed with inclusivity in mind, rather than to accommodate a certain demographic.
Kula Cafe is 100% halal and always alcohol-free. No alcohol permitted on the premises, thus no cross-contamination. Kula Cafe has always provided a safe, relaxed, and family-friendly atmosphere for all of its guests, year-round.
Established Legacy: Kula Cafe has been a family-owned business since 1999, and long before Dry January became popular, it was at the forefront of the alcohol-free dining scene in London.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q. Is Kula Cafe a good place to go for Dry January in London?
- Yes! Kula Cafe is always alcohol-free and not just during the month of January. This makes it one of the best options for finding a good place to enjoy a more pleasant dining experience without alcohol.
Q. Does Kula Cafe offer halal options?
- Yes, Kula Cafe is 100% halal. Therefore, customers who are looking for a trusted halal cafe in Marylebone can be assured that all the food and drink served here are halal-compliant.
Q. What is the distance between Kula Cafe and Oxford Street & Selfridges?
- Kula Cafe is located just behind Selfridges on James Street and about a 5-minute walk to either Oxford Street or Bond Street station. Many customers stop in after shopping, sightseeing, or wandering around Marylebone Village.
Q. Does Kula Cafe provide vegan options, dairy-free options, and plant-based options?
- Yes, the Kula Cafe serves oat, almond, coconut, and soy milk across the entire menu. Most of the mocktail options are vegan by nature, and all Mocktail drinks can be made with little or no sugar added to the beverage!
Q. Will I be able to enjoy the Mocktails with friends when I go out at night?
- Definitely, Kula Cafe has a large number of customers enjoying mocktails for late-night, alcohol-free gatherings. The mocktails are designed to be festive and complicated; they are a great substitute for traditional cocktails.
Q. Can I make a reservation for large groups or special occasions?
- Yes, a table reservation is a great idea for groups of 4 or more, especially during the weekend and the January sales period; however, walk-ins are always welcome. Refer to the booking form to make places
