Breaking Down Barriers to Inclusion: La Taberna Lúpulo's Love of NoLo in Puerto Rico’s Walled City

A Welcome for All in Old San Juan

Nestled among the cobblestone streets of Old San Juan sits La Taberna Lúpulo, a stately tavern with entrances on two corners and a welcoming vibe for both drinkers and non-drinkers alike. Co-owner Zalika Guillory has curated a NoLo beer menu featuring no fewer than eight different styles—an impressive feat on an island where beer culture is still maturing.

Co-owner Zalika Guillory enjoying a refreshing moment on her outdoor patio, featuring Clausthaler Grapefruit NA and Athletic Upside Dawn beverages.

Pioneering Education and Inclusion

Zalika was the first female Certified Cicerone in Puerto Rico, and she ensures that every bartender at Lúpulo becomes a certified Cicerone Beer Server within a year of hire. Her belief: every guest deserves knowledgeable service—whether they’re ordering a double IPA or a non-alcoholic Kölsch.

From Beer Distributorship to Ownership

Alongside her husband Jake Liman, Zalika transitioned from beer distributor to tavern steward eight years ago. Their shared love of craft beer turned into a mission: honoring Lúpulo’s legacy while evolving its offerings to reflect a broader, more inclusive beverage culture.

A Personal Reason to Go NoLo

During her second pregnancy, Zalika found herself craving the taste of beer—without the alcohol. That moment of curiosity bloomed into action as she explored the few NA brands available, eventually building a menu that would attract marathoners, moderation seekers, and the sober curious.

Making NoLo Visible

La Taberna Lúpulo doesn’t tuck its NA options into the margins. “We have a dedicated section on our digital menu for non-alcoholic products,” says Guillory. “It’s one of the first tabs on the screen.” Her team also features canned NoLo beers front-and-center and eagerly educates guests about this growing segment.

Cozy and vibrant atmosphere at Taberna Lúpulo, with an eclectic display of bottles, vintage decor, and a menu showcasing a diverse beer selection.

Looking Ahead

With Puerto Rican breweries rumored to be launching their own NA offerings, Zalika hopes to showcase them just like she did in her early days supporting craft beer. Spirits may be next on the NoLo menu.

Inclusivity as Strategy and Ethos

Ultimately, La Taberna Lúpulo’s success with NoLo is about more than product—it’s about people.

“I’m going to keep adding [NoLo beers] to the menu,” Zalika says. “More people are just ordering them. More people are asking.”

Whether entering from Calle de San Sebastian or Plaza del Mercado, guests at Lúpulo are invited to belong—drink or no drink.