Out For Bloodies

Joey Gerard’s, Greendale, Wisconsin

Last night, I went to the new Bartolotta’s Supper Club, Joey Gerard’s, with friends (there are two: one in Mequon, one in Greendale—I visited the Greendale location).

When you hear the words “Supper Club,” you automatically think of the 1950s-60s…a time when men like Tom Collins, Harvey Wallbanger and Rob Roy ruled the bar, relish trays were a thing and ice cream drinks capped off a dinner of hearty, beef-y comfort food like stroganoff and wellington. Hmm. Last time I checked it was 2012 (for another week or so at least).

But when you hear Bartolotta’s, you think classy, upscale, and above-all-else, delicious fare. So you give it the benefit of the doubt, throw on your pearls, and make a reservation.

And as usual, Bartolotta’s did not disappoint. In fact, Joey Gerard’s is just the place the Milwaukee-area needs. Supper Clubs were the norm in Wisconsin back in the day and now you’re hard-pressed to find one outside of northern destinations like Door County. We need a place that reminds us of a simpler time—with a modern twist.

Now, I know this is a Bloody Mary blog, but I’m getting to that so bear with me.

To me, a Supper Club seemed like just the place where they’d have a good Bloody. I had no concrete evidence on this, just a gut feeling based on past history with steakhouses, which usually make a mean, flavorful one. I figured this was similar and ordered one with dinner—even thought it wasn’t on the menu.

I was also encouraged by the “Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktail” listed on the appetizers, so I of course had to order that too!

Now again, I was expecting a decent bloody, but nothing at all like what arrived!

Spice: Not very spicy, but still flavorful.

Mix: Unsure.

Chaser: None.

Fixin’s:   Lemon, Lime, cheese, olives, pickle, pearl onion, Brussels sprout,  beef stick, pepperoncini, mushroom, asparagus and a bean.

Price: $7

This was an excellent drink and immediately cracked my Top 10. I was so tempted to order a second one, but knew I wouldn’t be able to eat all of the garnishes and still put a dent in my meal.

Speaking of the meal…

Yes, the Bloody Mary Shrimp Cocktail (pictured above) was a must. It was very good, but not that special—it was pretty much a shrimp cocktail with okra, a brussels sprout, a pearl onion and a mushroom stuck in the sauce (which was quite spicy). I recommend it if you’re in the mood for shrimp cocktail—but not if you’re looking for that Bloody Mary fix!

We also got an order of raw beef and onions. I know, I know, that freaks many people out, but again, it was a throwback reminding me of Christmas Eves past. Food has the effect on people—triggering memories and emotions!

For dinner, I ordered the French Dip sandwich, while the rest of my party ordered steaks; everyone else also ordered dessert (including a couple of ice cream drinks!) but I was too full to partake.

I will definitely be returning to Joey Gerard’s and I suggest you check it out.

Cheers!