From Espresso Martinis to Dirty Martinis, These Los Angeles Restaurants Know How to Pour ‘Em
There is perhaps no drink classier than the iconic martini. From the sleek glass to the traditional olive garnish, sipping on a crisp martini can make anyone feel like royalty (just ask Kris Jenner). While the savory martini made with olive juice is considered to be the classic, there are several different ways to master the art of a drink made famous by Bond…James Bond. From espresso martinis to ones with a lemon twist, these are our favorite spots to sip a martini in Los Angeles. Best Martinis Los Angeles
The Victorian
Must-Order Martini: Dirty Martini with Reyka Vodka
@localemag Have you been to #TheVictorian in #SantaMonica? #localemagazine #reykavodka #ladatenight #lafoodies #lahappyhour ♬ sheluvme – Tai Verdes
What seems like a stunning white neighborhood house is actually one of LA’s hottest nightlife spots. Situated in Santa Monica, just one block from the beach, The Victorian is a place to be seen. With three floors boasting epic DJ lineups, a Mediterranean-inspired menu and weekly happy hour, order a dirty martini with Reyka Vodka and dance the night away.
Location: Santa Monica
Best Martinis Los Angeles
Greekman’s
Must-Order Martini: Freedman’s House Martini
Greekman’s in Silver Lake boasts a Mediterranean-inspired patio that features stunning blue glassware and vine-covered walls. The Greek fare is authentic and refreshing, making it the perfect place to enjoy bites and a cold martini. The Freedmen’s House Martini in particular allows you to choose between gin and vodka, and the bitters give it a more citrusy and herbal aftertaste. When it comes to appetizers, pair your martini with the Very Lemony Potatoes and marinated olives and feta.
Location: Silver Lake
Perch
Must-Order Martini: My Fair Lady
View this post on Instagram
Located on the 15th floor in Pershing Square, Perch offers a glamorous rooftop setting for a truly elevated experience. Whether you’re looking to dine at the restaurant or you’re stopping by for drinks at sunset, the My Fair Lady cocktail puts a refreshing and fruity twist on a typical martini. Made with crisp Icelandic Reyka vodka, the flavors of lime, cranberry and Crème de Peche work together to make a sweet yet subtle cocktail.
Location: DTLA
10/4
Best Martinis Los Angeles
Bar Flores
Must-Order Martini: Marla’s Martini
Whether you’re looking to sit on the bougainvillea-covered patio for a vibrant cocktail or you want to experience the live music on Tuesdays, Bar Flores is a beloved staple in the heart of Echo Park. Though there are several different craft cocktails to choose from, Marla’s Martini puts an innovative twist on a traditional concoction by using chamomile and lemon oils. It is refreshing and citrus-forward without being too sweet, making it beautifully balanced.
Location: Echo Park
Sunset Tower Hotel
Must-Order Martini: Southside Fizz
The Sunset Tower Hotel is known for its star-studded history, vintage appeal and celebrity clientele. Whether you’re sitting at the sleek tower bar or out by the picturesque pool, the Southside Fizz blends elements of a martini with bubbly Prosecco, creating a classy and light cocktail that can be enjoyed at any time of the day. The fresh lime and mint yield a natural taste while the use of Reyka vodka keeps things crisp.
Location: West Hollywood
Best Martinis Los Angeles
The Maybourne
Must-Order Martini: The Maybourne Martini
Located near Rodeo Drive, The Maybourne is an exclusive and elegant hotel that has several different options for drinking and dining. From the dim-lit whiskey and cigar bar to the outdoor terrace, The Maybourne is the perfect place to stop for a midday martini while shopping. The Maybourne Martini uses gin to create a botanical-forward cocktail that is light and invigorating. Thanks to the vermouth, however, it maintains the beloved dryness that most martinis are known for.
Location: Beverly Hills
The Rendition Room
Must-Order Martini: Meet Me on Mulholland
The Rendition Room is a sultry speakeasy that takes guests back in time to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Rather than vodka, the Meet Me on Mulholland martini uses gin to create a drink that is full of flavor and herbaceous botanicals. The lavender bitters give it a floral aroma and taste while the cucumber and lime add refreshing qualities. The egg white foam then creates a new dynamic with an unfamiliar texture, making this innovative take on a martini dynamic and delicious.
Location: Studio City
9/13
Best Martinis Los Angeles
Café Stella
Must-Order Martini: Extra Dirty Vodka Martini
From the exposed brick walls in the dining room to the bistro-style patio, Café Stella is a romantic spot that feels like it’s straight out of France. The menu features French favorites like escargot and beef tartar, and though they have a wonderful wine list, Café Stella makes a mean martini. Keep it simple with an extra dirty martini but request that it is made with Reyka vodka for an optimal level of cool.
Location: Silver Lake
Camphor
Must-Order Martini: Provence Martini
Take classy to the next level with the Provence martini from Camphor in the Arts District. This modern French bistro features a marble bar and an open-kitchen design, creating a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere for guests. In addition to being washed with French olive oil, the vodka used in the Provence martini is also infused with Herbs de Provence, transporting imbibers to the French countryside. The silver platter that it’s served on is an added bonus.
Location: DTLA
Best Martinis Los Angeles
Providence
Must-Order Martini: The Italian Job
When it comes to fine dining, Providence is a revered destination that focuses on seafood and sustainability in a timeless setting that is complete with blue velvet chairs and abstract wall art. The new tableside cocktail program by Beverage Director Kim Stodel allows for guests to enjoy drinks and a show. If you’re a fan of truffle, the Italian Job Martini is sure to hit the spot thanks to the infusion of both black truffle and hazelnut. Plus, the ricotta-stuffed olives are the most satisfying garnish.
Location: Hollywood
9/10
Grandmaster Recorders
Must-Order Martini: Classic Martini with a Caviar Twist
Grandmaster Recorders is without a doubt one of the coolest restaurants in Hollywood. Between the picturesque rooftop and the chic 71 Studio Bar, ordering a martini at this former (and legendary) recording studio is almost as satisfying as drinking one. The classic martini is served extra chilled and can be made with either gin or vodka, but elevating your drink with a caviar “bump” is the way to go. The saltiness of the caviar makes the martini even more savory, resulting in a combo that is fit for a rockstar.
Location: Hollywood
Best Martinis Los Angeles
Gran Blanco
Must-Order Martini: Espresso Martini
Though martinis are most often made with vodka or gin, Gran Blanco takes an innovative approach by using tequila in their infamous espresso martini. The warm, bohemian interior features plenty of cozy couches where you can lounge as you sip your martini. When it comes to flavor, the espresso is rich without being bitter, and the amaro gives it an aromatic intensity. If you’re craving something sweet, pair your martini with the Nemesis flourless chocolate cake.
Location: Venice
Allie Lebos graduated from the University of California, Santa Barbara in 2017 with a BA in Communication. While in school she was a staff writer at The Daily Nexus for nearly two years. Since graduating she has written for The Palisades Magazine, as well as Hidden Hills Magazine. Currently living in Santa Monica, Allie loves to indulge in good food, hot yoga, and daily walks along the beach; writing articles on travel, special events, as well as features on local businesses and individuals.
