Rio Rita's Sexy Bloodys & French 75s

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… or should we call them Freedom 75s?

Meghan Ruth Speakerman, 5:59pm, Mon. May. 28, 2012

Rio Rita's bloody marys are a testament to the fact that I wasn't the only one kid who liked to dip my finger in spices as if they were Fun Dip candy. I don't even really drink bloody marys, but these pickled salads-in-a-glass are so delicious and well-made, I'd drink them even if they weren't rimmed with creole seasoning.

Holdin' it down for the eastside, the establishment is the perfect mix of coffee shop and lounge bar. The patio is spacious but the inside strikes your heart, with individually decorated booths that make you feel like you're in a really well-done party garage.

Yet again, Rio Rita brings me out of my comfort zone and over to the other side of I35 with their version of one of my all-time favs, the French 75. This light and refreshing yet strong summery cocktail consists of gin, lemon juice and sugar or simple syrup shaken to all hell and then topped off with champagne. The suave Rio staff light the lemon rind on fire for some serious aromatic flare and for $6, it's hard to beat as a respectable drink at a reasonable price.

Rio Rita is so hip, you can even pay your tab from your phone with their Tabbedout software.

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