Kristi’s Kraftails is Transforming the Drinking Game, One Sip at a Time
The owner of Kristi’s Kraftails is living her “best mocking life” offering vegan cocktails and mocktails for all to enjoy.
Kristi’s Kraftails’ signature drinks include Mint To Be, Pura Vida, Flower Power and Marg my Words. Photography courtesy of Kristi’s Kraftails.
A business inspired by pregnant women is putting a healthy twist on cocktails and mocktails.
Founded in March 2022, Kristi’s Kraftails specializes in making homemade, vegan, low-sugar and gluten-free drinks made out of fresh fruit. The refreshing beverages are great for any occasion, whether it’s a party, wedding, baby shower, football game or concert.
The inspiration behind Kristi Dukoff’s drinks came from her former boss and owner of Gracie’s, Ellen Gracyalny, who was expecting a baby while Dukoff was a bar manager at Gracie’s. “I started pairing five-, seven– and nine–course chef tastings with mocktails,” she says. Her goal was to ensure that pregnant women and sober diners could enjoy non-alcoholic cocktail alternatives alongside fine cuisine.
Originally from Buffalo, New York, Dukoff moved to Rhode Island for college where she attended Johnson & Wales University. She graduated with an associate degree in Culinary Arts and a bachelor’s degree in Food Service Management before traveling across the states and working in places like New York City, Boston and Hawaii. After making hundreds of craft cocktails and mocktails, Dukoff began to produce her own creations out of Hope & Main.
Dukoff‘s cocktails and mocktails are homemade, vegan, low-sugar and gluten-free.
“I get to be in all these beautiful locations and meet these incredible people, I feel like that’s the best part,” says Dukoff. “I’m in love with the life I live, I can’t stress that enough. I get to wear my tie-dye every day, I get to bring my pup with me and we get to touch people’s lives.”
Her homemade, well-balanced drinks provide individuals with the option to enjoy them as they are or elevate them by adding their favorite liquor. The cocktails and mocktails are customized to fit your specific preferences.
Dukoff, along with her dog named Skittles, can be found traveling with Maui the mocktail cart to different events every week to “spread a little mocking sunshine and kindness” throughout communities. Some of her signature drinks include Mint To Be, Pura Vida, Flower Power and the fan favorite, Marg my Words.
Kristi’s Kraftails also offers an array of seasonal beverages throughout the year. This fall season, she introduces specials such as Witches’ Brew, a concoction with dragon fruit, mint and citrus flavors, as well as an apple cider drink infused with warm mulling baking spices. A vegan hot chocolate called Sweater Weather is also on its way made with dark chocolate, coconut, smoked cinnamon, vanilla and brown sugar. Dukoff is even experimenting with the idea of adding a coffee kraftail to her menu in the near future.
Dukoff’s love for the industry sprouts from her mother Sharon, who works at Providence College cooking for 5,000 students a day. Sharon moved to Rhode Island after her daughter graduated from school and helps out with the business anytime she can. “My mom is one of the hardest working people, she’s a kind soul,” says Dukoff, who is deeply inspired by her mom’s drive, strong work ethic and passion. Every day, she is motivated by her and hopes to provide for her mom’s retirement as her own business continues to grow.
Still in shock when people walk by with her drink in their hand, Dukoff describes the feeling of disbelief. “I’m so grateful that I work for myself and that this is actually reality and I’m being recognized for it, I’m beyond humble,” she says.
Despite the initial process being scary to start, Dukoff emphasizes how rewarding it has been. As Dukoff continues to be a part of people’s moments and embrace her Rhode Island life, she encourages others to go after their dreams. “Take your time, do your research, lean on people, that’s a huge thing,” says Dukoff. “If you have a passion, nothing is unreachable. You’re constantly growing, there are bigger goals ahead.”
Order drinks through Dukoff’s website by the gallon or individually packaged. These drinks can stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to three months. Maui the mocktail cart is available to cater events. Check out her Instagram and Facebook to find out where she will be located each week.
691 Main St., Warren, 401-228-4429, kristiskraftails.com
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