The Bloody Marys Of Buenos Aires

 
 

 
Since moving to Buenos Aires, I’ve found that almost every expat has one US food item that they would give anything to have readily available again. I’m no exception to this rule. I’ve had the overwhelming urge over the past few weeks for a good, spicy Bloody Mary.
 
Rather than sit around and complain about how badly I wished Porteños served spicy foods, I decided to take matters into my own hands. I hit the streets this weekend armed with some exhaustive preliminary research, a strong desire to get drunk, and a goal to find the five best Bloody Marys that this town has to offer. What follows, in no particular order, are the five best Bloody Mary spots in Buenos Aires:
 
1.) Sugar

Although this Bloody wasn’t quite as spicy as I was hoping, the tomato mix was still tasty and the fact that the bartender was willing to serve it to me at 2 am on a busy Friday night totally made up for any lack of heat. I’ve been told that Sugar has a good brunch, but I’ve never made it in myself. If this Bloody is any indication, it’s probably worth checking out.
 
2.) Rió Café

Rió Café was a great spot to enjoy a drink. The atmosphere was laid-back, and I was able to sit in the green outdoor courtyard and take in the view of the chic lounge just inside. The Bloody itself was fantastic. The bartender used a pepper-infused vodka and topped it off with ground black pepper. Needless to say, the level of spiciness was perfect.
 
3.) Olsen

Olsen may be one of the more unique places I’ve been since I’ve come to Buenos Aires. Upon entering the Scandinavian-themed restaurant, you’re greeted by a wood-burning stove in the center of the dining room, which is looked over by a huge painting of a bear. This was the only restaurant that actually chilled the Bloody and removed all of the ice before serving. That, coupled with the cucumber wedge garnishing the rim, made this the best-looking Bloody I saw all weekend.
 
4.) Home Hotel

Home Hotel is, believe it or not, a hotel. To get to the bar, one must navigate through several stained-glass doors and pass through a very small garden. The fact that I was handed a selection of different Tobasco and Worcestershire sauces upon ordering made me like this bar immediately. The atmosphere was very relaxing, and the Bloody was amazing.
 
5.) Magdalena’s Party

Last, but not least, is Magdalena’s Party. This was the only restaurant on the list where I enjoyed a meal in addition to a Bloody Mary. Both the food and the drink were extraordinary. I ate next to the defunct fireplace that now serves as the centerpiece of the small corner lounge area of this stylish restaurant.
 
I’m pleased to know now that the next time I have the urge for a Bloody Mary, I have the option of choosing from some of the coolest bars in the city.