I don't drink either, but sadly there's not a tonne of good alternatives to bars. And not all bars are loud, finding a quiet one isn't that hard, especially on a week night.
You have to factor in that a lot of people might not want a meal. If there's a large group of which only about half are eating, I'd be more comfortable taking them to a bar than a restaurant.
Though if the restaurant is fine with it, go ahead.
