Grandmaster Recorders
Whether you’re looking for an extra kick after a heavy meal or to just savor the taste of coffee, an espresso martini is key for a night out. It’s resurgence since the ‘80s and ‘90s finds the cocktail all across town on any hot-spot menu, so we’ve rounded up the very best to guarantee you’ve ordered the smoothest espresso martini in Los Angeles.
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Website/ 225 N Canon Dr 90210
We’re sure you’ve flocked here for Martini Hour, which offers a variety of stiff martinis for just $10 from 3 to 5 p.m. every day. But you’ll definitely want to consider searching further down the menu for Dante’s excellent espresso martini, which keeps things simple but powerful with Grey Goose, Mr. Black and fresh espresso. Additionally, if you’re Team Tequila, order the Another Espresso Martini, which swaps in Don Julio Reposado alongside Mr. Black, agave, chocolate bitters, chili and Galliano.
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Website/ 3612 W 6th St 90020
In Koreatown, you can discover an expert espresso martini off The Normandie Club's “It’s Sorta Like A…” cocktail menu. Made with cold brew, the bartenders also whip it up with vodka, Licor 43, Oloroso Sherry and cinnamon.
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Website/ 7001 Franklin Ave 90028
Add some pep into your step to your Magical Castle experience with an espresso martini. Ideal for those in search of a sweet take on the cocktail, the Misdirection throws together espresso, Black Hjarte Coffee Liqueur and Tito’s Vodka with Dorda Double Chocolate Liqueur and Mozart White Chocolate Liqueur.
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Website/ 370 N La Cienega Blvd 90048
There’s something just right about ordering a drink called The Black Dahlia in a bar with no windows. Served up, get cozy in a booth with this cocktail made with Effen Vodka, fresh Italian espresso, Mr. Black, nutmeg, vanilla and cinnamon.
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Website/ 468 N Bedford Dr 90210
When you aren’t lured in by the luxe Vietnamese iced coffee, the Road to Dishonor cocktail makes for the perfect beverage order. Alongside Mr. Black and fresh espresso, it is made with Haku Japanese Vodka.
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Website/ 7953 Santa Monica Blvd 90046
Immersed in a chic, Prohibition-era-style setting, an order of the EOspresso ensures a lush drinking and dining experience. The cocktail maestros here shake up Ketel One with cold brew, grated coffee bean and Italian amaro mix.
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Website/ 1332 Second St Rooftop 90401
This Santa Monica hotspot takes espresso martinis seriously. Offering a whole portion of its cocktail menu to espresso martini options, you can choose whether espresso and vanilla are paired with Grey Goose, Cazcabel Reposado, Copalli Cacao Rum or Patrón Cristalino. Better yet, choose the flight to try the first three.
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Website/ 9159 Sunset Blvd 90069
If your night out in West Hollywood looks more like reveling over craft cocktails than partying at clubs, head to Bar Next Door. The ambiance is vibrant, the cocktails are stellar and you can’t go wrong with its espresso martini. Giving you the chance to opt for bourbon, rye, tequila or rum, the cocktail shines with espresso, coffee liqueur and vodka.
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Website/ 16101 Ventura Blvd 91436
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants is known for its curated whiskey and sake program, but an espresso martini is worth ordering to finish out the impeccable omakase experience. A clarified cocktail, it's also made with Oya spices and a ground espresso garnish.
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Website / 1518 N Cahunega Ave 90028
Join the Italian and Australian-inspired restaurant for its special spin on espresso martinis. A delightful treat, the beverage is made with Patrón reposado, fresh espresso, Mr. Black, cardamom and tonka bean.
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Website / 12751 Millennium Dr 90094
At an establishment that is equal parts cafe and bar, you’re guaranteed a knockout espresso martini. Case in point: Joliet’s signature J. Espresso Martini made of Ketel One Vodka, house espresso, agave, bitters and cynar. You can pair this drink with any of Joliet’s housemade dishes, such as its smoke salmon toast or breakfast burrito.
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Website / 3927 Van Buren Pl 90232
Simonette is an all-day restaurant that serves up impressive food and drinks, especially its bar selection. Next time you stop by, be sure to check out its slick espresso martini made with Pearl vodka, cold brew liquor and orgeat. This martini can be a nice pick-me-up during the day while still being flavorful and enjoyable.
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Website / 218 Main St 90291
Coucou is keeping things classic with its espresso martini made with Tito’s, espresso and St. George Nola coffee liqueur. It makes for the perfect sip to wake you up or just to enjoy if you’re craving the bold flavors of this classic drink. Try it alongside an order of signature zucchini beignets or with L'Haute Dog.
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Inspired by starlet Sophia Lauren, the Simply Sopia is made with Absolut Elyx, Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, salted colada syrup and biscotti foam. The sweet and strong flavors meet each other halfway to create a well-balanced and delectable drink.
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Website/ 1542 Sunset Blvd 90026
Join Bar Flores for an intriguing take on the espresso martini. Made with tequila, Lolita Mexican coffee liqueur, Zucca Amaro, honey, café and lemon oils, this cocktail will not only have you awake, but you will be delightfully pleased with the nice and even blend of flavors.
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Website/ 9010 Melrose Ave 90069
Olivetta keeps things classic. Made up of Absolut Elyx vodka, Crème de Cacao, espresso, Licor 43 and coconut cream, this espresso martini goes down smooth and refreshing.
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Website/ 1263 W Temple St 90026
For when you want a properly strong espresso martini, head to this Echo Park establishment. Thunderbolt’s Jazz Funeral is served with on nitro, meaning it has quite the extra kick, in addition to vodka, sherry, coffee, chicory, cacao, sorghum and amontillado.
See Also: 8 Must-Try Margaritas in Los Angeles
Photography by: Courtesy of Grandmaster Recorders
