Best Bloody Mary

RALEIGH, N.C. — What better hair of the dog on a lazy Sunday than the garden in a glass, the Bloody Mary?

Flying Burrito on Raleigh's Glenwood Avenue is among my faves for just about any meal, and their Bloody Mary is a must. Count on a Mexican restaurant to amp up the spice on the glass as well as on the plate. This version packs just enough black pepper to power through any morning after.

You'll find downtowners downing Bloody Marys as a Happy Hour option at The Raleigh Times. The decision whether to use the candied bacon as sweet and salty stirrer or pull it out to enjoy as an appetizer is left to the individual.

Yes, it's all about bacon these days, and Motorco in Durham is among those that drops a slice into the Bloody Mary. This rendition is sliced thin and adds the right hint of meat and salt to a carefully balanced mix. Topped with okra and olives, this Bloody Mary is a liquid salad. Have two if you're feeling extra-virtuous.  

The Oxford on Fayetteville Street is among the handful of local restaurants that roll out a Bloody Mary bar with Sunday brunch. Start with homemade mix and a sidecar of vodka, then add your choice of veggies, hot sauces and spice. You can even rim your glass with Old Bay. The build-your-own method ensures the right balance of booze, veg and tang no matter your personal taste.

Another garden in a glass is the 3-olive, asparagus-trimmed Bloody Mary at Tribeca Tavern on Falls of Neuse. Our waiter told us Tribeca makes their mix fresh daily, so a brunch Bloody is just minutes old, and the thickness of the fresh tomato juice is evident.

Finally, honorable mention to north Raleigh's Relish, where the Bloody Dirty Martini satisfies the craving for Bloody Mary taste with a lighter texture.