The Best Bloody Mary in Las Vegas!
When we set out for our November 2016 trip to Las Vegas, we had one objective which was to find the best Bloody Marys in Las Vegas. So in the weeks leading up to our trip we reached out to numerous restaurants and bars in the Las Vegas area and invited them to participate in our search. The following locations are those who accepted our invitation and are listed in the order in which we tasted them.
CliQue inside of The Cosmopolitan
Hash House a Go Go inside The Linq
Public House inside The Venetian
The Palm Restaurant inside Caesars Palace
HEXX Kitchen and Bar inside Paris Las Vegas
Lobster ME inside Planet Hollywood
Morels inside of The Palazzo
Grading Scale
Since Bloody Marys can be complex and consist of several different variables, we established a grading system that we could equally apply to all the Bloody Marys we sampled. Here's how we evaluated each Bloody Mary:
Presentation – How interesting was the appearance and presentation of the cocktail?
Minimum score 1
Maximum score 10
Creativity – How unique and creative was the cocktail?
Minimum score 1
Maximum score 10
Overall Taste – How good were all the ingredients and the overall taste of the cocktail?
Minimum score 1
Maximum score 10
Atmosphere – How did the atmosphere of the restaurant/location/staff impact our experience?
Minimum score 1
Maximum score 10
First Place
Highest Overall Score
CliQue inside of The Cosmopolitan
Located right off the main casino floor inside the Cosmopolitan, CliQue delivered a unique Bloody Mary experience combined with an exciting Las Vegas vibe. We sat along the side of the bar area that opened to the casino on a very comfy and plush couch. CliQue is very upscale and sophisticated, however you feel very welcome and comfortable because of their amazing staff.
Presentation Score: 9 out of 10
We tried three different styles of their Bloody Marys during our visit. Each one was so unique but they all shared a common wow factor with their presentation. The reason we give CliQue such a high presentation score is for the last one we sample (pictured here). This Bloody Mary was garnished with peanut butter filled celery stalk, apple wood bacon and a slider cheeseburger. It was amazing!
Creativity Score: 9 out of 10
CliQue is not short in the creativity department. Of the three Bloody Marys we tried at CliQue, here are just a few of the ingredients that they use in their Bloody Marys... clove salt rim, sriracha, tequila, Lagavulin, ginger syrup, Michelada-Mondelo and lots of other fun additives. The bartenders came over to our table and walked us through the history and foundations of each Bloody Mary. They take the creativity and the final results very serious at CliQue.
Overall Taste: 8 out of 10
The individual tastes of the three Bloody Marys we tasted were so unique and bold. Their cocktails are so well thought out and the combined ingredients provided an unforgettable flavor. If you want a Bloody Mary unlike any other you've ever tried, then CliQue is the place for you! Truly one of a kind Bloody Marys.
Atmosphere Score: 9 out of 10
Here's the best way to describe the atmosphere of CliQue... within 15 feet of where we where seated were the following: TV's with NFL football, slot machines and table games, a DJ spinning tunes, beautiful waitresses in short dresses and extremely knowledgeable bartenders. Enjoying amazing cocktails in Las Vegas with this type of atmosphere doesn't get any better!
CliQue Overall Score: 35 out of 40
Second Place
Highest Overall Taste Score
The Palm Restaurant inside of Caesars Palace
Located inside the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace is the notable Palm Restaurant that is known primarily for it's superb steaks and dining experience. So we were wondering how serious they may take their Bloody Marys. Here's what we found out.
Presentation Score: 9 out of 10
When we arrived, they had a section of their main bar set up for our Bloody Mary experience. Presented in individual bowls (on ice) where individual garnishments with the following items: shrimp cocktail, bacon, cheeses, olives stuffed with cheese and bacon, asparagus, pickles and celery. We appreciated the presentation because the ingredients were basic yet high in quality. Plus, you could add only the items you wanted and enjoyed in your Bloody Mary.
Creativity Score: 7 out of 10
Our Bloody Mary experience at the Palm Restaurant was that our bartender Ashley made her Bloody Mary mixes from scratch. She had one that was traditional and one that was spicier. We thought that was a nice touch and very creative.
Overall Taste: 10 out of 10
There were three of us tasting their Bloody Marys and we all three agreed in unison that the taste of the Palm's Bloody Mary was the best. The fresh ingredients we thought was the key ingredient. They make their mix from scratch and it contained the perfect balance of tomatoes and spices.
Atmosphere Score: 8 out of 10
Sitting at the bar at the Palm Restaurant inside Caesars Palace is a great atmosphere. The staff was super friendly and professional, exactly what you would expect from a restaurant of this caliber. We were pleasantly surprised with how serious they took their Bloody Marys and all their cocktails.
Palm Restaurant Overall Score: 34 out of 40
Third Place
Highest Presentation Score
HEXX Kitchen and Bar inside Paris Las Vegas
Located right on the Las Vegas Strip! You are just feet away from the most famous Boulevard in all of America when you dine at HEXX Kitchen and Bar. They have indoor seating, but you'll want to step out on their patio for either breakfast, lunch or dinner.
Presentation Score: 10 out of 10
The only perfect score on presentation during our trip is awarded to the Bloody Mary from HEXX Kitchen and Bar and here is why. Matt ordered the COLOSSAL and it is served in a pitcher with jumbo shrimp, Alaskan king crab leg, bacon, beef stick, peppers, cheese and pickled vegetables. Did we mention it was served in a pitcher??? Wow, it was impressive!
Creativity Score: 8 out of 10
They offer 5 different Bloody Marys on their menu. Each is very different and appeals to different styles and palettes. So there is no doubt that you and everyone in your party will find one they will enjoy. One is made with tequila, one with gin, one with Absolut peppar vodka, one with a house spicy vodka and one with basil infused vodka. Plenty of choices!
Overall Taste: 7 out of 10
Once you get past all the garnishments (which can also serve as a meal) the Bloody Mary from HEXX is very tasty. We happen to like our Bloody Marys strong and HEXX delivers! Make sure you've got UBER ready or plan on walking, these guys know how to make a Bloody Mary!
Atmosphere Score: 8 out of 10
Sitting on the Las Vegas Strip sipping Bloody Marys is hard to beat. Plus, when the passersby's see you drinking a Bloody Mary out of a pitcher, they stop to ask what it is and also want to take pictures. HEXX is a great place for any meal because of it's location and the friendly service.
HEXX Restaurant and Bar Overall Score: 33 out of 40
Fourth Place
Highest Creativity Score
Public House inside The Venetian
Located in the indoor walkway between The Venetian and The Palazzo is Public House. This restaurant has quickly become one of our favorite places for lunch in Las Vegas. We've eaten here on several occasions and love it every time!
Presentation Score: 7 out of 10
Public House serves a Bloody Mary called The Cerdo Picante. While the presentation is simple, what's inside is simply amazing. This is the classic, 'Don't Judge a Book by it's Cover.”
Creativity Score: 10 out of 10
Here is why The Cerdo Picante scored so high on creativity... it is infused with bacon and jalapeno. First, the bacon and jalapeno is roasted in the oven and combined with lime juice, cilantro and Smirnoff vodka then sits for 24 hours. It is not until the second day the vodka is ready for serving. It is then combined with Zing Zang bloody mary mix and poured into a Collins glass with olive & lime garnish with shrimp. Pretty creative huh?
Overall Taste: 8 out of 10
Their Bloody Mary packs a punch and leaves you with a spicy aftertaste. It is full of flavor and you can really point out the bacon and jalapeno. So if you like these two main ingredients, then this is the cocktail for you. An absolute spectacular Bloody Mary.
Atmosphere Score: 7 out of 10
Public House is so cool. It is known for their beer selection and menu items but now we have another reason to stop by. Their staff is very friendly and they really appreciate their customers. If your looking for a place in Las Vegas where you feel at home and among friends, then Public House is the place for you.
Public House Overall Score: 32 out of 40
Fifth Place
Highest Atmosphere Score
Morels French Steakhouse and Bistro
This unique restaurant is located right next to the Palazzo check in desk in the main lobby. We've eaten at Morels French Steakhouse and Bistro before on a past trip and it was wonderful! So we were excited to be invited back for Bloody Marys. They have a great outdoor patio that overlooks the Las Vegas Strip, so make sure you ask to be seated outside, you'll love it!
Presentation Score: 6 out of 10
The initial presentation of their Bloody Mary is very simple and sophisticated. The glass had a salt and pepper rim and the garnishments were the traditional celery, cheese and olive. What made the presentation even more special was the charcuterie platter of specialty meats, cheeses and fresh bread!
Creativity Score: 7 out of 10
Morels has a proprietary mix for their Bloody Mary. They did hint at a few of the ingredients which were fresh tomatoes, horseradish and Worcestershire. We could not believe the amount of time and preparation it takes them each day to make their Bloody Mary mix, but it is reflected in the quality of the cocktail.
Overall Taste: 8 out of 10
Fresh, fresh and fresh is the best way to describe their Bloody Mary. The mix was extremely flavorful, but not thick and chunky as some made-from-scratch mixes can be. We tasted different types of herbs and spices in their mix and the charcuterie and cheese platter was the perfect companion to this suburb cocktail.
Atmosphere Score: 10 out of 10
Sitting outside on the patio overlooking the Las Vegas Strip, drinking a wonderful Bloody Mary and sharing a charcuterie platter makes for the ideal atmosphere in our book. What made the overall experience even better was our server Tino. He actually remembered us from a year ago! His friendliness and sincerity made our experience all the better.
Morels Steakhouse and Bistro Overall Score: 31 out of 40
Sixth Place
Lobster ME inside Planet Hollywood
Located inside of Miracle Mile Shops next to Planet Hollywood, Lobster ME is a really cool place that we had never been to before. Their slogan is 'For the Love of Lobster” and they take lobster seriously. All their lobster is from Maine and Maine lobster is the best in the country.
Presentation Score: 8 out of 10
Lobster ME serves their version of the Bloody Mary called the Lobster Mary. As you have already guessed, it is served with a lobster claw. It is garnished with celery and a lemon. A unique presentation when you have lobster in your Bloody Mary!
Creativity Score: 8 out of 10
Lobster ME scored high on creativity because even though they keep it simple and keep the focus on their best ingredient... the lobster. We've had shrimp and crab in a Bloody Mary before, but never lobster. Very creative!
Overall Taste: 8 out of 10
Their mix is rich with tomato flavor and the perfect amount of horseradish. One thing we loved and appreciated the most was the crushed ice they used. This cocktail was very easy to drink and the type of Bloody Mary you can drink two of.
Atmosphere Score: 6 out of 10
Don't go for the atmosphere, go for the quality of the cocktail. Since it's located in the Miracle Mile Shops, there's not much in the way of location or ambiance, but don't let that stop you from stopping by. They have a great Bloody Mary and fresh Maine lobster, a winning combination in our book!
Lobster ME Overall Score: 30 out of 40
Seventh Place
Hash House a Go Go inside The Linq
During our run of Las Vegas trips, we had never been to Hash House a Go Go and this last visit will not be our last visit. This restaurant is amazing. While our search for Bloody Marys brought us in, the food and service will bring us back. There is always a short wait to get seated, but do it... you will not be disappointed.
Presentation Score: 7 out of 10
Matt tried Johnny's Famous B.L.T. Mary. As the title suggests, it was served with smoked bacon, rib of lettuce, sliced tomato, white toast and a side of mayo. Although very simple, we thought it was a great take on the traditional Bloody Mary.
Creativity Score: 7 out of 10
The term of “it's so simple, why didn't I think of that” applies here. It didn't take a lot of brain power, but this basic blend of a classic sandwich was pure genius. Matt's actually going to start making the B.L.T. Mary at home and yes, he'll give the credit to Hash House a Go Go.
Overall Taste: 7 out of 10
Hash House a Go Go does a lot right and their Bloody Mary did not disappoint. They make good bacon here, and when we say good we mean great. The only thing that would have made this Bloody Mary better would have been more bacon (but isn't that true for almost everything?). If you like a tomato rich Bloody Mary, then this place is for you.
Atmosphere Score: 8 out of 10
Hash House a Go Go is a great restaurant that's open 24 hours. Their service is fantastic and we can't say enough about the food we ordered. They have a very diverse menu and you will not be disappointed with anything you order. It's a fun place to eat and we will be back!
Hash House a Go Go Overall Score: 29 out of 40