Photo byJulep Cast Iron Kitchen + Drink(Brea, CA)
There aren’t many universal truths when it comes to cocktails, but lately it appears most can agree that the ultimate nightcap is the espresso martini. In fact, as of 2022 Yelp searches for this iconicdrinkwent up 114%.
Cocktail lore credits the invention of this popular drink to London bartending guru Dick Bradsell in the 1980s. Whether you decide to imbibe with its traditional spirit – vodka – or spice it up with a reposado, this caffeinated cocktail is sure to fuel your evening.
Cheers to these ten espresso martinis that are totally worth the buzz.
- Residents Cafe & Bar(Washington, DC)
What they’re known for:Charming cafe vibes featuring seasonal cocktails with a globally inspired food menu. Home to one of DC’s favorite espresso martinis at brunch.
Yelpers Say:“As for the espresso martini, even if you don’t like espresso or martinis or coffee, please do yourself a favor and order this. It tastes like dessert. It tastes like tiramisu. It’s absolutely worth trying because it’s what they’re famous for, and they deserve to be famous for it.” –Lipi R
- Vanderpump à Paris(Las Vegas, NV)
What they’re known for:Restaurateur and reality star Lisa Vanderpump is serving up whimsical cocktails and menu items that pay homage to her visits to Paris.
- Julep Cast Iron Kitchen + Drink(Brea, CA)
- L’Ardente(Washington, DC)
What they’re known for:Serving Italian cuisine in the heart of the capital, guests specifically love their layered lasagna. It features 40 layers with short rib, truffle mornay, and Sottocenere cheese.
Yelpers Say:“My wife had an after dinner espresso martini that was maybe the most indulgent beverage I’ve ever seen. The white chocolate foam was one of the most playful twists I’ve seen in a cocktail in some time.”–Zack P
Photos by: Katherine T,Residents Cafe & Bar| Monica T,Vanderpump Paris| Kari W,Blackbird Modern Asian
- Blackbird Modern Asian(Jupiter, FL)
- Barbusa(San Diego, CA)
What they’re known for: Located in San Diego’s Little Italy, they’re known for serving Modern Sicilian Cuisine with a side of festa(celebration).
- AZ88(Scottsdale, AZ)
Yelpers Say:“To be honest, all I want to write about is their espresso martini. If you’re like me and sometimes crave some coffee after a heavy meal, prepare to never want regular coffee again.”–PJ. C
- Dante(New York, NY)
What they’re known for:Since 1915 Caffe Dante has been a staple in Greenwich Village . Now a registered New York City landmark, you can enjoy coffee, cocktails, and conversation.
Photos by: Kelly O,Dante| Virginia F,Balboa Cafe| Alissa T,AZ88
- Balboa Cafe(San Francisco, CA)
What they’re known for:Folks in the Marina & Cow Hollow go to Balboa cafe for their classics, including the Balboa burger as well as their Balboa Espressotini, brewed with Balboa’s proprietary espresso-bean blend.
Yelpers Say:“When at Balboa Café, you kind of have to order an espresso martini. Good coffee flavor, nice balance of sweetness, and a little boozy – it’s great for a brunch cocktail or anytime.”–Andrea Z
- Bricco(Boston, MA)
Yelpers Say:“When you enter, go to the side room and sit at the bar and order an espresso martini. Vanilla vodka, Baileys, Frangelico, Kahlúa, espresso, and a touch of cream, shaken and served chilled with roasted espresso beans on top – it’s the best espresso martini I have ever had.“ –Carl B
Methodology: This is a list of the top espresso martinis in the US in 2023 according to Yelp. We identified businesses in the food, nightlife, and restaurants categories on Yelp, with a large concentration of reviews mentioning “espresso martini,” then ranked those spots using a number of factors, including the total volume and ratings of reviews mentioning “espresso martini, ” between August 17, 2022 – August 17, 2023. This list looked at businesses in the United States. All businesses were marked open on Yelp as of September 20, 2023. When available, all businesses on this list have a passing health score as of September 20, 2023.For geographic diversity, no more than two businesses were included per state.
