Few cocktails have made a comeback quite like the espresso martini. With its creamy texture, rich coffee flavor, and elegant foam top, it’s become a go-to for late nights, brunches, and everything in between.
At Slowly in Pacific Beach, it’s our most ordered drink—and for good reason. Here’s your crash course on the espresso martini: what’s in it, how it started, and why ours hits different.
What Is an Espresso Martini?
Despite the name, there’s no gin or vermouth here. The espresso martini is a vodka-based cocktail made with real espresso and coffee liqueur. It’s served cold, shaken until frothy, and typically garnished with a few espresso beans on top.
This drink is bold, slightly sweet, and smooth as silk. It’s the ultimate pick-me-up in a coupe glass.
Espresso Martini Ingredients
Here’s the traditional build:
- 2 oz vodka
- 0.5 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlúa, Mr. Black, or similar)
- 1 oz fresh espresso
- Optional: 0.25 oz simple syrup (for balance)
Shake vigorously with ice until frothy, then strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass. Garnish with 3 espresso beans for the classic look.
The Story Behind the Cocktail
Legend has it that bartender Dick Bradsell invented the espresso martini in the 1980s in London. A model allegedly asked for a drink that would “wake me up, and then f*** me up.”
Thus: vodka + espresso = icon.
Since then, it’s exploded in popularity—especially in recent years as espresso culture and craft cocktails have merged.
What Makes a Good One?
A truly great espresso martini is all about balance:
- Fresh espresso (not cold brew, not concentrate)
- Smooth vodka that doesn’t overpower the coffee
- High-quality liqueur with real depth (we prefer Mr. Black)
- A hard shake to get that creamy, velvety top layer
Avoid anything too sweet or artificial. And yes, you should drink it quickly while it’s still cold.
The Bonfire Espresso Martini
If there’s one cocktail that captures Slowly’s spirit, it’s our Bonfire Espresso Martini. Built with premium vodka, Caffè Verona premium espresso, and a touch of Mozart white chocolate liqueur, it’s both rich and indulgent. What makes it unforgettable is the marshmallow torched tableside — a little flame, a little caramelized sugar, and a lot of drama. More than just a drink, it’s an experience that guests can’t resist capturing before the first sip.
How We Make It at Slowly
We also craft a classic espresso martini that’s clean, bold, and dangerously smooth:
- Premium vodka
- Fresh-pulled Caffè Verona premium espresso
- A splash of coffee liqueur
- Just a touch of house simple syrup
The result? A drink that hits like a cocktail and finishes like dessert.
What to Pair It With
The Espresso Martini is a excellent complimatray pairing with our desserts
Chocolate Basque Cheesecake
The espresso martini and this ultra-creamy, burnt-edged dessert are a decadent match — like tiramisu, but elevated.
Pay de Queso (Blackberry Cheesecake)
The dark fruit and creamy ricotta balance the coffee liqueur’s bite beautifully.
Craveable Crème Brûlée
Cinnamon, vanilla bean, and espresso? Enough said. The textures and flavor profiles are made for each other.
For a contrasting pairing that will balance out the drinks sweetness, go with one of our rich and savory entrees
Meltingly Tender Lamb (Red Wine Jus)
Slow-braised, savory, and earthy — the espresso martini cuts through the richness with cool balance.
Poblano Pappardelle with Crispy Guanciale
The creamy, salty, and slightly spicy pasta gets a bold counterpart in the martini.
Curious About Other Martini Styles?
The espresso martini is just one chapter in the story. Explore all the variations in our full guide:
👉 [Types of Martinis: A Complete Guide →]