The Top Bloody Mary Garnishes to Take Your Serve to the Next Level

A Bloody Mary isn’t just a cocktail, it’s a ritual. The mix provides the foundation, but it’s the garnish that turns a good Bloody Mary into something truly unforgettable. At The Pickle House, we’ve seen just how creative people can get with their serves, so we’ve rounded up some of the best garnishes to inspire your next one.

1. The Classic Celery Stick 

Crunchy, refreshing, and a natural stirrer, the celery stick is a timeless garnish for a reason. It brings balance to the rich and spiced flavours of the drink while keeping things traditional.

2. Pickles, Pickles, Pickles 

No surprise here and we maybe a little biased! Whether it’s a spear of cornichons, pickled cucumber slices, or even a pickled chilli, the tangy crunch cuts through the tomato base beautifully and doubles as a sneaky snack. 

3. Olives on a Skewer 

Briny, rich, and indulgent, stuffed olives are a Bloody Mary’s best friend. Stack them on a cocktail stick for instant style points. For a twist, try chilli- or garlic-stuffed olives.

4. Crispy Bacon Strip 

One for the brunch crowd. A strip of crispy bacon adds smoky, salty goodness, transforming your Bloody Mary into something closer to a meal. It’s indulgent but always a crowd-pleaser.

5. Lemon or Lime Wedge 

Fresh citrus is essential to balance the savoury flavours. A lemon wedge is classic, but a lime wedge brings a zesty twist. Bonus: squeeze it over the top just before serving for an extra burst of brightness.

6. Cheese Cubes 

Yes, cheese! A cube of cheddar or even halloumi on a skewer works brilliantly with the savoury base of the drink. It’s indulgent, fun, and perfect if you want to lean into the “liquid lunch” vibe.

7. The Statement Garnish 

This is where things get really fun. In the US, Bloody Marys have long been known for over-the-top garnishes, think sliders, prawns, or even entire fried chicken wings balancing on the glass. While it might be more theatre than practicality, it makes for a memorable serve (and a few Instagram posts). The question is: when will the UK catch up?