The Art of the Northwoods Bloody Mary: A Round-Up

In other regions, the Bloody Mary is a pretty run-of-the-mill and largely ignored cocktail. No fuss or fanfare—and certainly no cheese curds or sliders. Just a simple veggie-based cocktail garnished with a leafy stalk of celery. Ho hum.

But here, Bloody Marys generate excitement! It’s easy to see why. Northwoods Marys are not merely cocktails but complete meals artfully balanced over a chilled, spicy beverage, accompanied by a tiny beer snit, to boot.

The history of the Bloody Mary, like most cocktail history, is rather muddled, so the evolution of this region’s increasingly over-the-top Bloody Mary isn’t well defined. What is clear, however, is that if you’re looking for an impressive Bloody Mary, you have your pick of incredible options Up North. Here’s a round-up of some of our favorites.

Tavern On Central – Florence

Tavern On Central’s 22-ounce Bloody Mary is famous, and for good reason. Consider brunch taken care of: you have everything you need right here. The T.O.C. Bloody Mary is garnished with a cheeseburger slider, cheese cubes, a beef stick, string cheese, a pickled egg, pickled Brussels sprout, mushrooms, olives, and a pickle. And it comes with a snit, of course.

Sayner Pub – Sayner

If you’re looking for a laid back place to watch the game, answer your craving for Friday fish fry or pizza, head to the Sayner Pub in downtown Sayner. Sayner Pub is known for its fantastic 22-ounce Bloody Mary, generously garnished with all of your favorites. Sayner Pub is open year-round: Stop in with your snowmobile club in the winter, or come to enjoy live music shows on lazy summer weekends.

CT’s Deli – Rhinelander

Although CT’s Deli was established fairly recently, in 2015, it quickly became a staple in the Rhinelander community. CT’s sandwiches—piled high with expertly smoked meats and fine local cheeses in clever combinations—are a much-sought-after lunch break for the Monday-through-Friday crowd. But this weekend, gather your pals and savor everything you love about CT’s fare…in Bloody Mary form. Behold the Lunchbox Bloody Mary (pictured here with Chef Tom), which generously serves two to four people.

Dublin Sports Bar and Grill – Conover

The Dublin Sports Bar and Grill will be your new favorite place to watch the game and linger longer to enjoy the beautiful lakeside view. On Sundays, they have a make-your-own Bloody Mary bar, so you can pile on your favorite fix-ins and custom-create your perfect cocktail.

V&M Bar and Campground – Rice Lake

V&M Bar and Campground may have a small menu, but the passion and quality V&M brings to the table are big! Come in for the acclaimed Bloody Mary, and stay for a delicious Loaded Carolina Sandwich with a side of Spicy Fried Pickles. Fun fact: V&M’s fried foods are prepared in an air fryer, providing you with a healthier—but just as delicious—version of your favorite comfort foods.

The Other Place Bar & Grill – Iron River

Whether you pop in for a burger or apps, be sure to try The Other Place Bar & Grill‘s highly rated Loaded Bloody Mary. You won’t be sorry! The Other Place also hosts a variety of fun events throughout the year, from holiday parties to painting classes, making this bar a great stop in Iron River.

Bucketheads Sports Bar & Grill – Rhinelander

Bucketheads is an easygoing tavern with a rustic bar, pub grub, billiards, and darts. It also happens to offer one of the top-rated Bloody Marys in Rhinelander.

So what’s your preferred collection of garnishes for the Bloody Mary? Where do you love to go for Bloody Marys when you’re Up North?