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Espresso martinis began their rise in the 1980s, created by a bartender responding to a model’s request for a drink that would “wake me up and then f*** me up.” Decades later, the cocktail has evolved into a nightlife staple, fueled by its punchy blend of caffeine and vodka.
Among Gen Z and late-night enthusiasts, it represents more than just a cocktail. It’s part energy boost, part photo opportunity, and part badge of refined indulgence. With its deep brown hue, velvety froth, and coffee bean garnish, it’s the go-to for starting or sustaining a night out.
A combination of visuals, bold flavor, and a kick of caffeine has kept it in rotation, even sparking dedicated bars and menu sections across New York City.
NYC’s First Dedicated Espresso Martini Bar
- Rose Room – Midtown
Rose Room leads the city’s espresso martini scene as its first dedicated bar focused entirely on the cocktail. Tucked inside a Midtown lounge space, it offers an experience soaked in floral elegance, featuring 4,000 roses across its walls and ceiling.
- Gold Standard brings a gilded, luxurious edge
- Cherry Blossom Bliss is floral-forward with a subtle fruit note
- Velvet Tiramisu mimics dessert in a glass
- Lychee Rose Love pushes sweetness and perfume to the forefront
Mentioned by outlets like Sprudge and DoNYC, Rose Room sets itself apart with atmosphere, presentation, and cocktail execution that invite repeat visits.
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Top Espresso Martini Destinations by Neighborhood
Finding the best espresso martini in New York means knowing where to go based on mood, time of day, and vibe.
Each neighborhood brings something different to the table, offering everything from historic cocktail institutions to velvet-draped lounges and rooftop clubs.
Some venues serve classics with precision, others experiment with syrups, cold brew infusions, and unique garnishes.
West Village & Greenwich Village
Cobbled streets, cozy corners, and timeless bars define the pulse of West Village and Greenwich Village.
These neighborhoods balance old-school sophistication with downtown cool, making them ideal for sipping espresso martinis that lean classic, elevated, or cheekily experimental.
Venues here know how to serve a well-built cocktail while keeping the vibe unforced. The following spots reflect that relaxed refinement, each offering espresso martinis with character and finesse:
| Venue | Key Highlights | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Dante NYC | $10 “Martini Hour,” well-balanced espresso martinis with over 100 years of cocktail tradition | Relaxed, refined, local favorite |
| Employees Only | Speakeasy-style, layered espresso martinis crafted with precision and attention to detail | Dimly lit, upscale, intimate |
| Goodnight Sonny | Bold coffee flavor, creamy finish, casually cool execution | Hip, social, casual open-bar vibe |
| Figaro | Espresso martinis with thin-crust flatbreads in a stylish revival of a historic venue | Candlelit, warm, nostalgic with modern flair |
NoHo & Lower East Side
NoHo and the Lower East Side channel edge, nostalgia, and creative energy into everything they do, especially cocktails.
Espresso martinis here often feature inventive tweaks and crowd-stopping presentations.
Rooftops, retro glam, and velvet drapes are just the beginning. Look to these local favorites for espresso martinis that go way past basic:
| Venue | Key Highlights | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Temple Bar | “Sick as Espresso Martini” with roasted depth and visual flair, a hit on social platforms | Retro glam, velvet interiors, stylish |
| Mr. Purple | Rooftop martinis with adventurous twists, ideal for pre-club drinks | High-energy, panoramic city views |
| Dear Irving | Premium spirits and vintage elegance across rooms, high-end espresso martini presentation | Timeless, classy, boutique-style interiors |
Midtown & Hudson Yards
In Midtown and Hudson Yards, flash meets flavor. Here, espresso martinis are served in floral sanctuaries or high-energy clubs, proving that even in Manhattan’s corporate core, indulgence finds its place.
Check out the following venues for espresso martinis in spaces that blend visual drama and social buzz:
| Venue | Key Highlights | Atmosphere |
|---|---|---|
| Rose Room | Midtown’s floral-filled espresso martini destination with photogenic, creative cocktail menu | Upscale, immersive, romantic décor |
| Slate | $10 specials, pool tables, flavored martinis, and social buzz | Loud, social, nightlife-oriented |
Creative Twists on the Classic
Not every espresso martini needs to stick to the script. Bartenders across New York City have taken creative liberty to experiment with flavors, textures, and presentations.
Some lean toward dessert territory, others play with formats like frozen blends or curated flights.
- Canto offers a frozen espresso martini that drinks more like a boozy dessert.
- Thick, frosty, and sweet, it’s ideal for warm nights or those craving something outside the classic pour. With several locations around the city, access isn’t an issue.
- Isla & Co. shakes up expectations with espresso martini flights.
- Each glass features a different infusion, think coconut, hazelnut, and orange zest. For indecisive sippers or flavor chasers, the flight becomes both an experience and an indulgence.
- London & Martin Co. delivers whipped cream-topped frozen espresso martinis that blur the line between cocktail and confection.
- Often paired with brunch dishes, this option favors those who lean sweet and want their drink to match their pancakes or waffles.
Where Food Complements the Cocktail
Some venues go beyond just serving a good espresso martini. They curate menus where the cocktail fits seamlessly into the meal. With pairing options that include everything from hearty pasta to global fusion fare, these spots offer full dining experiences where food and drink shine equally.
- Olio E Più serves espresso martinis alongside classic Italian comfort dishes.
- Creamy pastas, tiramisu, and well-balanced cocktails keep the mood indulgent. Perfect for those who want both carbs and caffeine.
- Jack’s Wife Freda turns brunch into a canvas for espresso martinis.
- Shakshuka, rosewater pancakes, and fries all hit better with a well-poured martini on the side. Regulars rave about the consistent quality and Insta-friendly setup.
- Baby Brasa takes a bold route with its Japanese-Peruvian fusion.
- Colorful interiors, upbeat music, and tropical cocktails complement dishes like ceviche and anticuchos. Espresso martinis round out the meal with an unexpected twist.
The Bottom Line
New York City continues to lead the espresso martini movement, offering everything from classics to frozen spins and affordable happy hours.
Choosing the perfect spot depends on your mood: opt for rooftops like Mr. Purple for energy, speakeasies like Employees Only for intimacy, or brunch staples like Isla & Co. for casual indulgence.
No need to stick with tradition. Flights, whipped toppings, tiramisu flavors, and floral-infused takes prove espresso martinis still have plenty of surprises left to pour.
