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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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The esteemed bar at Hotel Bel-Air treats visitors to a sophisticated espresso martini with just a touch of sweetness. Made with Tito’s vodka, the cocktail is enhanced by Kahlua and fresh-brewed espresso. 701 Stone Canyon Rd 90077
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Bacari’s drink menu features a variety of inventive cocktails, but it makes sure to offer a crowd favorite with the inclusion of an espresso martini. Maintaining a creative twist, the Espress Yourself pairs vodka, cold brew and coffee liqueur with condensed milk and nutmeg. Various
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Proving the power of tequila in an espresso martini, Beverly Bar shakes up reposado tequila with espresso and licor 43. Be sure to stop in on a Monday to take advantage of the Martini Monday menu, which offers the luxe cocktail at just $12. 434 N Camden Dr 90210
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For an excellent expresso martini paired with exquisite views, head to Perch. The chic downtown rooftop gets crafty with its version of the beverage, called La Finale, and stirs Reyka vodka, Borghetti espresso liqueur and espresso with chocolate bitters and banana foam. 448 S Hill St 90013
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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. 225 N Canon Dr 90210
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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. 3612 W 6th St 90020
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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. 7001 Franklin Ave 90028
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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. 370 N La Cienega Blvd 90048
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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. 468 N Bedford Dr 90210
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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. 7953 Santa Monica Blvd 90046
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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. 1332 Second St Rooftop 90401
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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 buzzes, the cocktails are stellar and you can’t go wrong with its espresso martini. Giving you the chance to opt for vodka, bourbon, rye, tequila or rum, the cocktail shines with espresso, coffee liqueur and vodka. 9159 Sunset Blvd 90069
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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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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. 1518 N Cahunega Ave 90028
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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 smoked salmon toast or breakfast burrito. 12751 Millennium Dr 90094
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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. 3927 Van Buren Pl 90232
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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. 218 Main St 90291
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Inspired by starlet Sophia Lauren, the Simply Sophia 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. 8490 W Sunset Blvd 90069
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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. 1542 Sunset Blvd 90026
For a properly strong espresso martini, head to this Echo Park establishment. Thunderbolt’s Jazz Funeral is served with nitro cold brew, meaning it has quite the extra kick, in addition to vodka, sherry, coffee, chicory, cacao, sorghum and amontillado. 1263 W Temple St 90026
See Also: 10 Must-Try Margaritas in Los Angeles
Photography by: Courtesy of Grandmaster Recorders
