Some martinis are clean and crisp. Others have a little attitude. The dirty martini falls firmly in the second category—briny, bold, and unapologetically savory.
At Slowly in Pacific Beach, the dirty martini is one of our house favorites. Whether you’re a first-timer or a die-hard dirty fan, here’s everything you need to know about this iconic variation.
What Makes It “Dirty?”
The term “dirty” refers to the addition of olive brine to the standard martini recipe. It clouds the drink slightly, adds a rich, salty flavor, and gives the cocktail its unmistakable edge.
The more brine you add, the dirtier the martini becomes. Some people want just a splash. Others go full filthy.
Vodka or Gin?
The dirty martini can be made with either vodka or gin, depending on your preference:
- Vodka results in a cleaner, more neutral backdrop that lets the olive brine shine.
- Gin adds complexity with botanicals that play off the saltiness.
At Slowly, we typically use premium vodka for a smooth, balanced dirty martini—but we’re always happy to make it your way.
Classic Dirty Martini Recipe
Want to try making one at home? Here’s the traditional breakdown:
- 2.5 oz vodka or gin
- 0.5 oz dry vermouth
- 0.5 to 1 oz olive brine (to taste)
- Garnish: Green olive
How to serve it: Shake or stir with ice, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with one or two green olives on a skewer.
Why People Love It
The dirty martini is popular because it defies the clean, dry image of traditional martinis. It’s bold. It’s flavorful. It has umami.
People who love salty snacks, pickles, or olives tend to gravitate toward this drink. It hits that same savory craving—but with booze.
Dirty Martinis at Slowly
We take pride in crafting our dirty martinis with:
- House-brined olives
- Chilled glassware
- Your choice of vodka or gin
- Perfect balance of brine and vermouth
It’s one of our most popular orders during Martini Monday, and for good reason.
Want More Martini Knowledge?
Dirty martinis are just one style in a much bigger cocktail family. If you’re curious about the rest, check out our full guide:
👉 [Types of Martinis: A Complete Guide →]
