Posts Tagged ‘bloody marys’

West Allis, WI: Natty Oaks

Posted: November 30, 2025 in Uncategorized
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If you’re looking for a no-frills, classic-style Bloody Mary, the version at Natty Oaks fits the bill—but doesn’t do much more. Served with a simple garnish lineup of a pickle, olive, lemon, and lime, it’s as basic as they come. The salted rim is a nice touch and adds a little extra flavor, but beyond that, there isn’t much to set this one apart.

The mix itself is straightforward and drinkable, but nothing memorable. No beer chaser was offered, which feels like a missed opportunity in Wisconsin, where a chaser is pretty much a state tradition. I wasn’t able to confirm the price, but based on the presentation and experience, this is a standard, bare-bones Bloody that gets the job done but won’t top any must-try lists.

If you’re already at Natty Oaks for food or drinks, it’s a fine option. But if you’re on the hunt for a standout or creative Bloody Mary, you’ll want to keep looking.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Classic, love a salted rim!

• Fixin’s: Olive, Pickle, Lime, Lemon

• Chaser: None

• Presentation: Simple, functional, cruise-perfect

• Price: Unsure

Norwegian Cruise Lines: Aboard the Joy for The Hallmark Christmas Cruise

Posted: November 21, 2025 in Uncategorized
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There’s something magical about sipping a Bloody Mary while floating in the ocean. I should know. Thanks to the drink package, I had several over the four days I sailed from Miami to Cozumel on the Hallmark Christmas Cruise aboard the Norwegian Joy. I bopped around to many of the ship’s bars and restaurants, including poolside, a pub, and a fine dining spot to test ‘em out.

These Bloodies were plain, simple, and consistent across the ship, but that’s all I needed. They had the perfect balance of flavor, olives, and lime, with just enough garnishing. My mom even discovered she enjoyed Virgin Bloody Marys, which was a fun twist.

Obviously, they tasted better when served in a glass, but even in disposable cups at the pool, they hit the mark. I’m not sure what mix Norwegian Cruise Lines uses, but it was decent, and these bloodies served their purpose perfectly on a trip full of holiday fun.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Classic, smooth, consistent

• Fixin’s: Olives, lime

• Chaser: None, but I had the drink package so I could’ve ordered one easily.

• Presentation: Simple, functional, cruise-perfect

• Price: Included in drink package

A cruise essential—these Bloody Marys weren’t fancy, but they were reliable, tasty, and exactly what you want at sea.

Milwaukee, WI: Saint Bibiana

Posted: December 21, 2024 in Uncategorized
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This weekend, I ventured to the east side of Milwaukee to visit Saint Bibiana, a cozy spot tucked away on Brady Street. It’s rare for me to get over to this area, but I’d heard great things about the food and drinks, so I couldn’t resist checking it out while in the area to pick up some essentials at Glorioso’s and Scortino’s Bakery.

Of course, I ordered their Bloody Mary, which was made with Zing Zang as the base and “doctored up” with various spices, per the bartender. The presentation was simple yet classic, with a garnish of pickle, olive, lemon, and lime. The cutest touch? A mini can of Lil Buddy beer served as the chaser. It was as delicious as it was charming.

For lunch, I paired my drink with the Ooey Gooey Brie Grilled Cheese sandwich, which felt like an elevated version of grilled cheese and tomato soup—a perfect companion to the Bloody Mary. The fries were crisp, well-seasoned, and just what I needed.

While I don’t make it to Brady Street often, Saint Bibiana might be worth the trip again. Its cozy vibe, great food, and expertly crafted Bloody Mary make it a spot I’d happily recommend.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Zing Zang mix, well-enhanced

• Fixin’s: Pickle, olive, lemon, lime

• Chaser: Lil Buddy beer (adorable mini can!)

• Price: I believe this was $11.50

Oh— and if, like me, you’re wondering who Saint Bibiana is/was… she is the Patron Saint of Hangovers. This Bloody probably has something to do with that.