With that kind of crowd if you can’t avoid them, you need to be 100% on your game, yes?
First...after closing should be relatively easy. You gotta go, see ya.
Second, you need a lie. You’re on antibiotics. Or you’re still hungover from the holidays and can’t bear to look at the stuff. Or your stomach is upset. Or you’re on a January cleanse.
And look for another job, yes?
In a few months when you’re feeling more comfortable with it, you may just get tired of the dance and flat out say “I don’t drink.”
But I've worked in restaurants and I remember what it’s like. Holding forth on the benefits of sobriety isn’t going to be productive unless it’s a vegan health store.
Be strong, my girl. You got this.