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The ‘Bloody Mary’ is a classic cocktail with a storied past – legend has it that the Bloody Mary was created in the New York style bar “Harry’s” in Paris somewhere around 1920. Americans were flocking to Paris during Prohibition, as were émigrés escaping the Russian Revolution. Americans were requesting their the “tomato juice cocktail” (simply tomato juice in prohibition days), while Russians brought along what most considered a tasteless spirit, vodka.

At the request of his customers, Ferdinand “Pete” Petiot, Harry’s bartender, began experimenting with the two ingredients, and the Bloody Mary was born. It took a few years to catch on, however by 1933 Americans were asking for the “Red Snapper” across New York. The vintage classic became the Bloody Mary many seek to enjoy over a weekend brunch.

We discovered a favorite version in our own backyard.

Asheville, North Carolina’s Strada Italiano and Social Lounge, has created their twist on the classic cocktail.

4 Easy Steps to Strada’s Italian Bloody Mary

Muddle 3 fresh basil leaves in a cocktail shaker.

Pour vodka over ice in a pint glass and add house Bloody Mary mix.

Dump into shaker with muddled basil, shake,  and transfer back into pint glass.

Garnish with pancetta wheel, fresh mozzarella, grape tomato and fresh basil leaf.

Tip: Ask for a piece of bacon to accompany this alluring craft cocktail.

Strada Italiano | Social Lounge

27 Broadway

Asheville, NC 28801

828-348-8448

http://www.stradaasheville.com/

http://www.socialloungeasheville.com/

About Strada: “Strada” means street or boulevard in Italian. The restaurant calls to mind a traditional neighborhood trattoria. Located in the heart of downtown Asheville, the building is a renovated late Victorian building completed in the 1880’s when the railroad first came to Asheville. The ambiance with rich woods, warm tones and custom copper architectural is welcoming, casual and romantic.  Our service is friendly and welcoming. Strada is the perfect place to enjoy an evening with friends or dinner for two.

The menu includes dishes representing all regions of Italy, including Chef Anthony Cerrato’s traditional family recipes. Hand-tossed pizzas, savory pastas, grilled or sautéed meats and seafood, house-made desserts, as well as gluten-free and vegetarian options are all made to order and feature locally sourced ingredients from Sunburst Farms, Ivy Creek Family Farm and Fork Mountain Farm, among others. The drink selection includes local brews on tap, biodynamic and organically produced Italian wines, as well as a host of fine liquors and cocktails.

Strada adjoins the Social Lounge, a craft cocktail bar with a unique rooftop patio and light fare. On request the full Strada menu is available next door. Catering and private dining are available. [/fusion_text]