Espresso Martini: Strong, sweet and with a good kick
An icon of bar culture from the 80ies has found its way back to the mainstream.
The birth of a classic: the story of the espresso martini begins in the wild 80s in London. Back then, in 1983, a bartender called Dick Bradsell was mixing up a legend in a small bar in the Soho district. It was no coincidence, but a moment of inspiration. The recipe is an icon.
A model, who nobody knew at the time, came into his bar and ordered something to "wake her up and party at the same time". Bradsell grabbed a fresh cup of espresso that was still steaming, mixed it with vodka and coffee liqueur and the Espresso Martini was born - then still known as "Vodka Espresso".
From London to the whole world
What began as a small insider tip in a London bar quickly became a must-drink cocktail in the hippest venues around the world. In the 80s, cocktails were all the rage and coffee was experiencing a hype that included everything from espresso to cappuccino. The Espresso Martini hit the nerve of the times: strong, sweet and with a good kick.
As the drink became more and more popular, it needed a name that was just as catchy as its taste. And so it eventually became the "Espresso Martini" - a name that perfectly combines the elegant side of the martini with the energy of the espresso.
Why the Espresso Martini is so popular today
Fast forward to today: the Espresso Martini is everywhere. Whether in a fancy bar in New York or a cool café in Berlin - this drink is always a safe choice. It's the perfect way to start the night or as a wake-up call after a good meal.
The best thing about it? The Espresso Martini is super versatile. Sure, the classic with vodka, coffee liqueur and espresso is unbeatable, but there are now countless variations. Some bartenders mix it with rum or tequila, others experiment with unusual garnishes or special coffee liqueurs.
And the icing on the cake? The three coffee beans that traditionally garnish the drink. They are said to stand for health, prosperity and happiness - everything you need for a perfect evening.
Why is the Espresso Martini so popular with young people? It's simple: it combines two things that young people love - caffeine and alcohol. What's more, it's not only delicious, but also makes a statement. Anyone who orders an Espresso Martini shows that they have style and know how to have a good time at the same time.
Whether at a relaxed brunch with friends, as an energizer at the next party or simply to round off the evening in style - the Espresso Martini is a real all-rounder. It's not just a drink, but a way of life. A little bit retro, a little bit glamorous and a whole lot of charm.
The Espresso Martini could be the perfect choice for your next visit to the bar and your search for the ideal drink. A sip of this iconic cocktail brings with it the heritage of a classic that has been inspiring with its unique charm for over 40 years. Cheers!