Tropics & Tonics: A Tribute to the Bold Flavors and Cocktails that Made Jolly Bob’s a Legend

A Tribute to the Bold Flavors and Cocktails that Made Jolly Bob’s a Legend!

Tropics & Tonics is a vibrant celebration of Caribbean-inspired food and drinks, born from the bold flavors, warm hospitality, and unforgettable spirit of Jolly Bob’s—the legendary tropical bar and restaurant that once lit up the east side of Madison, Wisconsin. This cookbook brings the island vibe home with a colorful mix of recipes that honor Jolly Bob’s legacy while offering fresh, crowd-pleasing dishes and show-stopping cocktails for every occasion.

Inside you’ll find craveable mains, punchy bar snacks, vibrant tropical salads, and island-style desserts that spotlight the fiery, sweet, and savory notes of the Caribbean kitchen. From crispy Chicharróne de Pollo and firey Jerk Chicken to tamarind-glazed Top Ranking Tuna, Sweet Potato Salad, and the beloved Avo-Cat, every dish is crafted to deliver bold flavor with a laid-back, island attitude.

The cocktail lineup features over 25 unforgettable drinks—from tiki-inspired originals to frozen favorites and party punches that stole the show at Jolly Bob’s. Shake up a classic Painkiller, sip on the lush Trinidad Yellowbird, or relive a legendary night with the bold and mysterious Purple Meanie. These drinks are more than recipes—they’re conversation starters, memory makers, and pure tropical magic in a glass.

With full-color photography, practical tips, and a voice that’s as lively as a night at the bar, Tropics & Tonics is both a tribute to Jolly Bob’s and an invitation to create your own tropical escape. Whether you’re mixing up a round of drinks, dishing out Caribbean comfort food, or throwing a backyard luau, this book delivers sunshine, spice, and stories in every bite and sip.

Whether you were a regular at Jolly Bob’s or are discovering these flavors for the first time, Tropics & Tonics is your passport to bold island cooking, unforgettable cocktails, and the kind of good-time flavor that lingers—no plane ticket required.