Who is mockahol-RICk?

Hey there — I’m Rick Batalla, a.k.a. MockaholRick — actor, writer, director, and full-time mocktail enthusiast based in Los Angeles.

A few years back, I decided to hang up my drinking shoes. Not because I hit rock bottom, but because, honestly, the hangovers were just too brutal. I’d toyed with the idea of quitting for years, but being in showbiz — where socializing often means drinking — made it easy to keep going with the crowd. Peer pressure is real.

Then one day, while on a mountain getaway with my wife and a margarita in hand (or maybe a few), I just said, “Okay, that’s it.” And that was that.

What followed was a shift — not just in lifestyle, but in perspective. Telling people you don’t drink anymore? Expect raised eyebrows and questions like, “Are you okay?” or “So what do you do for fun now?” It’s wild how much our culture equates good times with alcohol. And look, I get it — drinking was fun! I did it well. I was a pro. But like any pro, there comes a time to retire. No regrets.

Now I explore the world of alcohol-free living — not with a judgmental eye, but with curiosity and excitement. From bars with inventive mocktails to cities just catching on to the alcohol-free wave, I’m here to share what I find. Whether it’s reviews, recipes, or stories from fellow sober adventurers, MockaholRick is all about discovering and celebrating the joy of great drinks — no booze required.

So if you’re sober-curious, fully AF (alcohol-free), or just want a break from the booze without sacrificing flavor, welcome. You’re in the right place.