Cuisine Scene: Bloody Marys

Long Beach’s well-earned rep as a brunch-lover’s paradise owes much to its inventive Benedicts and legendary Weasels (if you know, you know). Of course, there’s something about Mary–that is, the Bloody Mary. Some of the city’s favorite spots serve next-level takes on the classic cocktail, from fully loaded creations piled with bacon, pork sliders and pickled garnishes to house-made mixes paired with any spirit. Savory, spicy, and endlessly inventive, Long Beach Bloody Marys are as spicy, fun and delicious as the city itself.

CLAIRE’S AT THE MUSEUM

Brunch at Claire's at the Museum pairs artful California cuisine with sweeping ocean views atop the bluff on the campus of the Long Beach Museum of Art (2300 E Ocean Blvd). The Bloody Marys shine, perhaps none so artistically as the bacon-topped Mary served in a schooner glass, crowned with four crisp strips seemingly waving in the seaside breeze. Savory and well-balanced, it’s the perfect companion to eggs Benedict or chilaquiles—brunch with a beautiful view and a bold, briny kick.

THE CROOKED DUCK

Brunch and cocktails shine at The Crooked Duck (5096 E Pacific Coast Hwy), a beloved breakfast-and-lunch spot known for comforting classics like biscuits & gravy and rich duck chili. But locals also flock here for creative drinks, especially those made with their homemade Bloody Mary mix. The Duck Haus Bloody Mary comes with vodka and celery salt, the Bacon Blue Cheese Bloody Mary adds crispy bacon and crumbled blue cheese, and the Duck Haus Michelada blends bloody mix with Tecate, lime and spice.

THE BREAKFAST BAR

They take day drinking seriously at The Breakfast Bar (70 Atlantic Ave/3404 E Fourth St)—serious enough to print it on a T-shirt and to craft three standout versions of the classic Bloody Mary. Served with house-made pickles and olives, the OG Mary features well vodka and house mix with a celery salt rim. The Mid-Grade Mary upgrades to New Amsterdam and a topping of your choice, while The Queen Mary goes all in with Tito’s and every garnish. There are also add-ons like bacon, jumbo shrimp and jerky.

DIPIAZZA’S

Much-loved DiPiazza’s (5205 Pacific Coast Hwy) doubles as a restaurant and legendary local performance venue, where Bloody Marys take center stage. Their house mix blends 10 savory, spice-kissed ingredients, and guests can pair it with any liquor to craft their ideal cocktail. These bold, flavorful drinks complement creative pizzas, garlic knots and other comfort foods perfectly. Whether you’re catching live music or a casual brunch, every visit hits all the right notes.

THE ATTIC

Dining at The Attic (3441 E Broadway) means settling into a charming 1920s Craftsman with the vibe of a welcoming front porch. Alongside playfully inventive, Southern-inspired comfort food like its Mac & Hot Cheetos and decadent cornbread, the Bloody Marys are stars on the menu as well as all over social media. Whether you choose the satisfying classic or the towering Meaty Man Mary—stacked with bacon, a short rib slider, and stuffed olives—they’re bold and boozy; a blissful bit of brunching.

About the Author

Steve Lowery

Steve Lowery is a longtime local. Over the years he has written for the Los Angeles Times, ESPN, and others. If you're looking for the hidden gems of Long Beach, Steve is your go-to.