Local Flavours Crafting Connection, One Mocktail at a Time

Spilt Zero Proof proves mocktails aren’t an afterthought.
Keenan Pascal in a black Token Bitters shirt, smiling at the camera and stands in front of a vibrant bar setup with bottles of bitters, syrups and mocktail ingredients.

For Keenan Pascal, Edmonton isn’t just home—it’s the perfect place to stir up something new.

Born and raised in the city’s west end, Pascal attended St. Francis Xavier High School before studying at the University of Alberta. While he spent time in Vancouver, it was Edmonton’s thriving business community and strong mentorship culture that brought him back to launch Token Bitters.

That entrepreneurial spirit led him to join forces with JoAnne Pearce and Andrew Paul to create Spilt Zero Proof, Edmonton and Alberta’s first dedicated mocktail bar. “We wanted to create a space where people could enjoy a night out without alcohol being the focus.” Pascal explains. 

“Most places treat mocktails like an afterthought.

At Spilt, it’s the main event.”

A stocked shelf at Spilt Zero Proof displays an array of locally made syrups, bitters and spirits, with a large black and white mural of a woman wearing red lipstick in the background on a door.

Together, the trio build Spilt Zero Proof into more than just a bar. It has become a hub for Edmonton’s growing zero-proof scene. “We looked at Vancouver, Edmonton and even Nova Scotia,” Pascal says. “But, Edmonton was the best option. It has the best access to people, a strong network and an incredible business community.”

That collaborative spirit is something Pascal has experienced firsthand. “The business community here is different. It’s not just about supporting each other in theory—it’s real, tangible help. Like, ‘Hey, do you want to go in on this order so the shipping is cheaper for both of us?’ That kind of collaboration doesn’t happen everywhere.”

Since opening, Spilt has built a dedicated community. “One of the coolest things is seeing our regulars—people who’ve made Spilt a part of their routine,” Pascal says. Instead of feeling excluded in traditional bar settings, guests can now experience the same social connection without the alcohol.

As more zero-proof options emerge in Edmonton, Pascal is excited to be at the forefront. “The local business scene here is different. You’re not stepping on each other’s toes. You’re figuring out how to lift each other up.”

“In Edmonton, it’s never about competing.
It’s about supporting each other.”

A Mocktail That’s Magical

Elevated ingredients and bold flavours are what set Spilt’s drinks apart. Now, they’re sharing one of their signature creations with us.

Magic Lemonade is a colour-shifting mocktail that shows just how bold and inventive zero-proof drinks can be.

Bartender pours sparkling water into a clear glass filled with ice on a black and white patterned counter.
Close up of a deep purple butterfly pea flower syrup being poured from a bottle into a glass of ice and sparkling water.
Bartender's hand holds a stainless steel jigger, carefully pouring an ingredient into a glass of ice, sparkling water and purple butterfly pea flower syrup.
A vibrant purple mocktail sits in a tall glass with a lemon slice garnish, with a blurred background and a neon sign with the word "SPILT".
What You’ll Need:
  • Ice
  • Sparkling Water
  • Token Butterfly Pea Flower Syrup
  • Whyte Lavender Bitters
  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Lemon or Lavender for Garnish
Directions:
  1. Fill a glass with ice and add a splash of sparkling water.
  2. Add 1 oz of butterfly pea flower syrup.
  3. Add 1 ml of Whyte Lavender Bitters.
  4. Add 1 oz of fresh lemon juice.
  5. Do not stir. Let the drink naturally shift in colour for an ombre effect.
  6. Garnish with lemon, lavender or both!
  7. Enjoy the magical taste and beauty of your Magic Lemonade!