Meet Kayla Coots | Owner of ALT Bar

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kayla Coots and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kayla, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
As a sober queer person, there were not many places I could go to enjoy a night out that had NA options, so I decided to try and make that space myself. I wanted to create a safe and inclusive space for anyone interested in or participating in the Non-Alcoholic (NA) world. Now I have the opportunity to be the NA bar at many different functions.

Our city is really changing and adapting to a new narrative around drinking. The NA world is growing so fast and I am truly grateful to be a part of it.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
ALT Bar creates space for those who want to enjoy crafted beverages with great folks sans the alcohol. ALT Bar is built on the belief that passion, love for your craft, good people around you, drive, and purpose propel you forward. I want everything ALT does, big or small, to inspire folks that achieving the things they want in life is possible.

Whenever I’m ready to throw in the towel, I remember the kind and encouraging words my customers have said to me. Their words remind me of why I started crafting NA cocktails in the first place — creating space for folks to be accepted and included is powerful.

ALT believes in bringing this power to its community as well. We donate and help in mutual aid around the city and share the stories of other ATL businesses committed to mutual aid full-time. ALT is a small business, but we hope to make a big impact.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take my friends to see all the incredible art this city has to offer. We would eat our way through downtown Decatur, and dance the night away at the basement or MJQ. See some of the most talented Drag performances, and share a walk down the beltline.

I would take them to all the little pockets ATL has to offer. Kirkwood, Highlands, EAV, Westside, Old Fourth Ward, etc. They all have a special nuance.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My partner Gray. She has been beside me on this journey since day one.

I was questioning my job and my future. She stood hand in hand with me while I took this crazy leap to start my own business. She tasted all my drinks, helped me with every single event, and believed in me. She is my organizer, cheerleader, business partner, and best friend. I am so thankful she encouraged me in those early days to chase my dream.

Website: altbaratl.com

Instagram: altbar.atl