Cheers: Spice your drink

While it may not be the sexiest drink in town, the Cajun Martini at Bistro Byronz is definitely worth a try for its incredible kick. Instead of the traditional olive or two, it’s garnished with a lime slice, two olives and pickled okra. It’s a lighter version of a Bloody Mary, perfect for those turned off by the queen’s rich thickness. This cool concoction slides down easily but leaves a warm sensation. The Bistro’s version ($8.95) adds a few spices—like cayenne, Tony Chachere’s and Tabasco sauce—to the base, and it mixes in a shot of Absolut Peppar. The spices make the drink a little salty, but that helps balance the acidity of the tomato juice. With beaucoup de saveur, the Cajun Martini embodies the ease of letting life roll on in the South and embracing a little heat.—Shelia De Guzman