Posts Tagged ‘Wisconsin’

West Allis, WI: Wisconsin State Fair (Pop’s)

Posted: August 31, 2026 in Uncategorized
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If you’re a Bloody Mary fan and a mac and cheese fan, the Bloody Mary Mac Daddy at Pop’s Paradise at the Wisconsin State Fair is pretty much made for you.

This was a 2026 Sporky entry, combining two Wisconsin State Fair favorites into one very indulgent dish. The creamy mac and cheese is infused with Pabst and reduced Bloody Mary mix, then topped with house-made Bloody Mary relish, chopped cheese, and a sprinkle of tomato powder. Basically, all the best parts of a Bloody Mary turned into comfort food.

And it was delicious. I liked it enough that I had it twice during my visits to the fair this year—which is saying something when there are approximately a million things to eat at the Wisconsin State Fair.

The Bloody Mary flavor was definitely there, but it didn’t overpower the mac and cheese. Instead, it added a savory, slightly tangy twist to an already rich and creamy dish. The Bloody Mary relish and tomato powder on top really helped bring the whole concept together.

At $16, it’s definitely a splurge for a serving of mac and cheese, but this is the State Fair, where calories don’t count and everything tastes better on a paper tray.

The Bloody Mary Mac Daddy

• Spices/Flavor: Creamy, savory, with a noticeable Bloody Mary-inspired kick
• Ingredients: Pabst-infused mac and cheese, reduced Bloody Mary mix, Bloody Mary relish, chopped cheese, tomato powder
• Presentation: Classic State Fair comfort food with a Bloody Mary twist
• Price: $16
• Sporky Entry: 2026

And one more Bloody Mary-related discovery at this year’s fair: Bloody Mary entries actually showed up in the food and vegetable competitions (Grand Champion Eats & Treats)! I’ve never noticed that before, and seeing them included among the entries definitely caught my attention. Maybe I’ll have to consider entering one myself someday…

If you’re at the Wisconsin State Fair and want to try something a little different, the Bloody Mary Mac Daddy is absolutely worth seeking out. I went back for it twice, so clearly it made an impression.

Oconomowoc, WI: Lucky Chucky’s Beach Bar

Posted: July 16, 2026 in Uncategorized
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Lucky Chucky’s Beach Bar & Grill is another perfect lakeside stop after a day on the water. After paddleboarding on Silver Lake, this Bloody Mary was exactly what we needed.

This one keeps things simple with two olives, lemon, and lime. No elaborate garnish tower here—just a solid, refreshing Bloody Mary that pairs perfectly with a beach bar atmosphere.

Sometimes it’s less about the toppings and more about the setting, and enjoying a Bloody after a day on the lake is hard to beat.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Refreshing and enjoyable after a day on the water
• Fixin’s: Two olives, lemon, lime
• Chaser: None offered
• Presentation: Simple, classic beach bar Bloody
• Price: Not listed

Lucky Chucky’s is all about the atmosphere. If you’ve spent the day paddleboarding or soaking up the sun on Silver Lake, a Bloody Mary here is the perfect way to wind down. Sometimes the location makes the drink taste even better.

Milwaukee, WI: Von Trier

Posted: July 16, 2026 in Uncategorized
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Von Trier has long been known for its German beer hall atmosphere, and their Bloody Mary is a worthy addition to the experience.

This one comes with everything you’d hope for in a classic Wisconsin Bloody, including a handmade Wisconsin beef stick, cheese, olive, lemon, and lime, along with a shorty beer chaser. The handmade beef stick is a nice local touch that helps set this Bloody apart.

The mix itself was flavorful and easy to drink, making it a great companion whether you’re stopping in for brunch or simply enjoying one of Milwaukee’s classic neighborhood taverns.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Well-balanced and flavorful (They told me they use Filthy Mix, in a bag)
• Fixin’s: Handmade Wisconsin beef stick, cheese, olive, lemon, lime
• Chaser: Shorty beer
• Presentation: Traditional Bloody with classic Wisconsin garnishes
• Price: Unsure

Von Trier does what it does best—classic, unpretentious, and consistently good. If you’re already stopping in to this east side establishment for a beer, don’t overlook the Bloody Mary.

Pewaukee, WI: 4 Keeps

Posted: July 16, 2026 in Uncategorized
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After a great morning paddleboarding on Pewaukee Lake, 4 Keeps, Pewaukee’s self-proclaimed “neighborhood dive bar,” was the perfect stop to relax and enjoy a cold beverage.

Their Bloody Mary may not be over-the-top with garnishes, but the flavor more than makes up for it. It was one of those Bloodies that immediately makes you take another sip. Well-seasoned, balanced, and just plain delicious. At only $7, it’s also one of the better values you’ll find.

The garnish included a pickle, two olives, cheese, and a beef stick, plus a shorty beer chaser—a classic Wisconsin finishing touch.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Excellent flavor with a well-balanced mix
• Fixin’s: Pickle, two olives, cheese, beef stick
• Chaser: Shorty beer
• Presentation: Classic Wisconsin-style with traditional garnishes
• Price: $7

Whether you’re coming off the lake or just looking for a neighborhood spot with a great Bloody Mary, Four Keeps delivers. Great flavor, a fair price, and a beer chaser make this one an easy recommendation.

Dousman, WI: Kettle Moraine Golf Club

Posted: May 5, 2026 in Uncategorized
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Like airports, golf courses are places were a good Bloody Mary just hits different. And this one at Kettle Moraine Golf Club was especially tasty.

We’ve reviewed their bloody before, but it’s been quite awhile. I had this one during the Icebreaker Scramble, their opening tournament of the season. We were on a bit of a frost delay (very on-brand for early-season Wisconsin golf), so it felt like the perfect time to grab a Bloody—especially with it being The Masters Tournament weekend.

This one came in a to-go styrofoam cup, which isn’t ideal from a presentation standpoint—but also completely understandable given the setting. Golf course, tournament day, trying to keep things moving… it gets a pass.

The garnish was simple and solid: a beef stick, a pickle, and two olives. Nothing excessive, but exactly what you want when you’re heading out to the course. They also asked if I wanted it spicy (always appreciate the option), and the spicy version delivered—really flavorful with a nice kick.

No chaser on this one, and I didn’t catch the price, but overall, it was a really enjoyable Bloody—especially in the moment.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Spicy with a nice kick, really enjoyable
• Fixin’s: Beef stick, pickle, two olives
• Chaser: None
• Presentation: Served in a to-go styrofoam cup (golf course practical)
• Price: Not listed

If you’re kicking off the golf season at Kettle Moraine, this is a great way to start your round. It’s not about over-the-top presentation—it’s about a solid, spicy Bloody that fits the moment perfectly.

Muskego, WI: The Local

Posted: May 5, 2026 in Uncategorized
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The Local is one of those neighborhood spots that people just know has a Bloody Mary—even if it’s not actually listed on the cocktail menu. And in this case, that assumption pays off.

Their Bloody comes in a full pint glass and includes a beer chaser of your choice, which is always a strong start. It’s garnished with all the essentials: a lemon-lime wedge, pickle, olive, cheese, and a beef stick—nothing over-the-top, but everything you want in a classic Wisconsin Bloody.

Interestingly, it’s not featured on their cocktail list, despite the rest of their drinks sitting around the $8 mark. So while I didn’t get an official price or confirmation on the mix or vodka used, it’s fair to assume this one falls right in line with the rest of their menu.

Flavor-wise, this is a straightforward, easy-drinking Bloody. It doesn’t try to do anything flashy, but it delivers a solid, familiar profile that works well whether you’re there for brunch or just stopping in.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Classic and approachable, easy to sip
• Fixin’s: Lemon-lime, pickle, olive, cheese, beef stick
• Chaser: Beer of your choice
• Presentation: Full pint glass with traditional garnishes
• Price: Estimated $8

If you’re at The Local, don’t overthink it—just order the Bloody. Even without a formal menu listing, it holds its own as a reliable, no-frills option that gets the job done.

West Allis, WI: 4th Base

Posted: May 5, 2026 in Uncategorized
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4th Base Restaurant is one of those classic spots that has built a loyal following over the years—especially for its sports bar/ old-school supper club feel and over-the-top presentations. We’ve talked about it before, and while there’s a lot to love, the experience can be a bit of a mixed bag.

I hadn’t been here in years, but there was a special 90s theme brunch going on that happened to coincide with my birthday, so I decided to check it out with a group of friends.

The Bloody itself leans into presentation. It’s topped with a skewer of veggies (pickle, carrot, cheese and broccoli) and extras, including haystack onion rings. It definitely gives you that classic Wisconsin-style, “drink plus snack” experience. And, it also comes with a full pint beer chaser—a major win. You can choose any beer, and I went with a Blue Moon, which felt like a slightly unexpected pairing but still did the job.

Flavor-wise, it’s solid and drinkable, though this one is more about the overall experience than a standout mix. The real draw is everything that comes with it—the chaser, the garnishes, and the setting.

One thing that continues to stand out (and not necessarily in a good way) is the lack of a clear menu. 4th Base is known for its “we’ll make you whatever you want” approach, which some people love—but if you’re someone who prefers structure or likes to know pricing upfront, it can feel a little overwhelming. I guess that’s what deters me from going there more frequently.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Classic and easy-drinking, but not overly memorable
• Fixin’s: Haystack onion rings, pickle, carrot, cheese, broccoli
• Chaser: Full pint beer (choose your own—I went with Blue Moon)
• Presentation: Over-the-top Wisconsin-style with a loaded skewer
• Price: Not listed

If you’re heading to Fourth Base, go in ready for a unique, anything-goes dining experience. The Bloody Mary is fun, filling, and comes with a great chaser—but the overall visit might depend on how much you enjoy a little unpredictability with your order.

Wauwatosa, WI: Explorium Brew Pub

Posted: March 15, 2026 in Uncategorized
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Explorium Brewpub in Wauwatosa is one of those places that quietly does a lot of things really well. Known for their wide selection of craft beers and an expansive menu, it’s a great spot to meet friends, grab a bite, and—of course—order a Bloody Mary.

I went with their regular Bloody, though they also offer a spicy/pepper vodka option for those who like a little extra kick. This one came nicely garnished with a pickle, olive, a small piece of string cheese, and a mini beef stick. Even better, it’s served with a chaser of your choice from their extensive beer list—and Explorium has a lot of beers to choose from.

The flavor was really solid—well-balanced and easy to drink, making it one of the better Bloodies I’ve had recently. It’s the kind of Bloody Mary that hits the spot whether you’re starting a weekend brunch or just stopping in for a casual drink.

One thing that always surprises me is that Explorium never seems overly packed when I visit and its predecessors, ABV Social and Good City, were also never very full. However, with the quality of the food, the variety of beers, and a strong Bloody Mary to match, it’s actually a fantastic meeting spot right in the heart of the Mayfair Collection.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: Well-balanced and flavorful
• Fixin’s: Pickle, olive, string cheese, beef stick
• Chaser: Your choice of from their extensive beer list
• Presentation: Classic Bloody presentation with traditional garnishes
• Price: $8 per website

If you’re in Wauwatosa and looking for a great place to meet up with friends, Explorium Brewpub deserves a spot on your list. The Bloody Mary alone is worth ordering—and with all those beers on tap, you won’t leave thirsty.

Note: Explorium has two additional locations, including Greendale and the Third Ward.

Brookfield, WI: Schmidtys Bar & Grill

Posted: March 15, 2026 in Uncategorized
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Schmidtys Off the Rail in Brookfield is one of the newer spots in town, having opened in 2024. The place has clearly been refreshed a bit, and from the looks of it, they’re aiming to be a lively neighborhood hangout with live music, specials, and plenty of events on the calendar.

Naturally, I had to check out the Bloody Mary. Served in a standard pint glass, this one kept things simple. There was no rim seasoning, but it did come with a few classic fixin’s: a beef stick, a chunk of cheese, and an olive. You can also choose any chaser you’d like, which is always a nice touch and a very Wisconsin move.

The Bloody itself was pretty average—nothing particularly bold or memorable, but perfectly drinkable. Sometimes that’s all you need, especially when you’re settling in at a big bar with a lot going on around you.

Schmitty’s looks like it has the potential to be a fun gathering spot, especially when the live music and events are in full swing. If I’m back in the area, I’d definitely pop in again to see what’s happening.

The Bloody Mary

• Spices/Flavor: They used Jimmy Luv’s mix and doctored it up a bit
• Fixin’s: Beef stick, cheese, olive
• Chaser: Your choice
• Presentation: Served in a pint glass, no rim
• Price: Unknown, probably about $10 or

If you’re in the Brookfield/Menomonee Falls area and looking for a lively bar with music and events, Schmidtys Off the Rail could be worth a stop. The Bloody Mary may not steal the spotlight, but it’s a solid companion for a casual afternoon.

Oconomowoc, WI: The Etcetera Bar & Grill

Posted: March 2, 2026 in Uncategorized
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Next up: Etcetera in Oconomowoc — the spot that took over the former Lakerz location.

Right out front, the sign boldly claims “Voted Best Bloody Mary in Oconomowoc,” so naturally, expectations were set.

The Bloody arrived in a little mason jar (always a solid Wisconsin touch) and was garnished with a beef stick, a chunk of cream cheese, a pickle spear, and a pepperoncini. It also came with a chaser — your choice of any of their beers on tap — which is always a win in my book.

Flavor-wise, it was good. Solid. Well-balanced. It had enough spice and body to keep it interesting without overpowering the palate. The garnishes felt classic and satisfying — nothing over-the-top, but no complaints either.

One interesting note: I didn’t see it listed on the drink menu or the food menu, which felt a little odd for something advertised as the “best.” I’m not sure on the price point or the exact mix details, but from a taste standpoint, it delivered.

That said… while it was absolutely enjoyable, I wouldn’t say it stood head and shoulders above some of the other Bloody Marys I’ve had recently. It’s a good, dependable Bloody — especially with that beer chaser — but not necessarily one that redefines the category.

If you’re in Oconomowoc and craving a classic Wisconsin-style Bloody with solid flavor and the full chaser experience, it’s worth a stop.

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