Like cheese curds, Bloody Marys have become one of the distinctive delights of life in Wisconsin. While the tomato juice-vodka-based beverage is not unknown elsewhere, if you ask an honest Chicagoan, they’ll serve it straight: Milwaukee has better Bloodys than Chicago. In recent years, many local bars have engaged in an arms race to see who can build the most impressive, the most massive, Bloody Mary. Those tall drinks can be a meal unto themselves.
For the new issue of Drink, the Shepherd Express’ twice-yearly guide to all things alcohol, we decided to drink at 10 local bars known for their Bloody Marys. Mind you: These are not the only places that serve great Bloodys—made not from mixes but with dedication to craft—but 10 is a round number (and we ran short of designated drivers).
Speaking of craft, a few years ago craft cocktails were rare in Milwaukee. Now, they’re as big as microbrews. We also visited 10 places in town with reason to boast of their craft cocktails. The research was stretched out over many evenings; otherwise, we’d have to turn to that traditional “hair of the dog” remedy next morning, a Bloody Mary with breakfast.
Do you think your bar serves first-class Bloody Marys or craft cocktails? Contact us and we’ll feature you soon.
2015 Drink
