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The Bloody Mary is the cornerstone of savory cocktails. Anchored by its classic tomato-and-vodka base, the drink has been a brunch-time staple — and a restorative — since the 1930s. Nearly as old as the original itself are its many variations, from clam-infused Caesars to tequila-driven Bloody Marias, each reflecting a different sense of place, palate, and occasion.
Whether you’re reviving yourself after a late night, clinking glasses over a leisurely brunch, or mixing something bold to accompany a hearty bite, these Bloody Mary variations deliver layered flavor and scratch that savory itch. From timeless builds to globally inspired riffs, these are our favorite garden-in-a-glass cocktails.
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Bloody Mary
Matt Taylor-Gross / Food Styling by Lucy Simon
We can’t talk about Bloody Mary variations without acknowledging the original. The classic recipe blends vodka with tomato juice, a squeeze of fresh lemon, Worcestershire, and hot sauce for balanced spice and tang. It’s a cocktail that rewards thoughtful seasoning and bold garnishes — think celery stalks, lemon wedges, and olives — and can be batched ahead for a group. This recipe emphasizes simplicity with room for personalization.
Bloody Caesar
Food & Wine / Photo by Jake Sternquist / Food Styling by Holly Dreesman / Prop Styling by Sue Mitchell
A beloved Canadian variation of the Bloody Mary, the Bloody Caesar replaces plain tomato juice with Clamato — a briny blend of clam broth and tomato — for an umami-rich profile that pairs beautifully with Worcestershire and hot sauce. Typically served in a celery-salt-rimmed glass with a lime wedge and stalk of celery, it’s a savory as well as refreshing.
Kimchi Bloody Mary
Food & Wine / Tara Fisher
This spicy riff on the classic harnesses kimchi brine and aromatics to amp up heat and funk, marrying the familiar tomato base with fermented tang. It’s an adventurous choice to add an extra layer of flavor — great with equally savory accompaniments or simply on its own.
Bloody Maria
Food & Wine / Photo by Jen Causey / Food Styling by Chelsea Zimmer / Prop Styling by Lydia Pursell
Swapping vodka for tequila, the Bloody Maria delivers a smoky, earthy take on the Bloody Mary template that’s perfect for lovers of agave spirits. With lime playing a starring role alongside spicy and savory elements, this tequila-forward cocktail offers brightness and depth.
Miso Mary Libertine
Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Emily Nabors Hall / Prop Styling by Christine Keely
This imaginative variation riffs on the Bloody Mary by incorporating miso for an umami punch that’s silky and rich. Combined with the classic savory scaffolding of tomato and spice, the Miso Mary Libertine offers an unexpected depth and complexity to the classic, familiar flavors.
Bloody Bull
The Bloody Bull pushes the Bloody Mary boundary by adding beef broth — a savory, full-bodied take that brings soup-like depth to the cocktail. Robust and rich, it’s a cozy option for cold evenings or paired with hearty dishes, anchoring the drink with layered umami and spice.
Red Snapper
The Red Snapper variation swaps gin into the Bloody Mary framework, trading vodka’s neutral backdrop for botanicals that add fresh herbal complexity. Light, crisp, and aromatic, this cocktail refreshes the palate — making it ideal as an especcially bright accompaniment to brunch.
Michelada
Jennifer Causey / Food Styling by Emily Nabors Hall / Prop Styling by Audrey Davis
Bringing beer into the fold, the Michelada riffs on Bloody Mary sensibilities with spicy tomato and lime energizing a cold brew base. Zesty and refreshing, this drink marries savory heat with cerveza chill, offering a lighter option during the warmer months.
