Move over meal deals, there's a new after-work order in town, and it involves a frosted glass and a basket of fries.
We've noticed that the martini-and-fries pairing has quietly become London's most satisfying happy-hour go-to. We can't take the initial claim, as New York has coined it the "adult happy meal", but we get the feeling that London is going to make it its own.
The appeal? Kinda obvious when you think about it. The salinity in a good martini makes you reach for the fries, and the saltiness of the fries makes you return for another sip. It's a feedback loop of pure pleasure in our opinion, where cold, sharp and botanical meets hot, crispy and salty.
Image: MRBL, Leadenhall Market.
Where to get martini and fries deals in London
MRBL, Leadenhall Market
MRBL's take on the adult happy meal is exactly what it sounds like, a vodka martini, served as dirty as you dare, with fries alongside for £14. The City's sleekest steakhouse keeping it simple and getting it right.
Setlist, Soho
Setlist's Martini Club runs every Wednesday and Thursday and does not mess around. The menu spans classics and creative serves: a Classic Martini, Pickle Tini, Chilli Tini, Lychee Martini and Blood Orange Martini, so there's something for every mood. The adult happy meal here is the fun part, with any martini paired with Cajun fries and dip for £18.
Brasserie Max at Covent Garden Hotel
Pull up a seat at the long pewter bar and let the team do their thing here. Brasserie Max's Martini Hour runs Monday to Friday, 5 to 6pm, with £14 martinis, shaken, stirred or thrown, with complimentary seasonal fries on the side.
Café François, Borough Market
The chic French-style cafe in one of London's most popular food markets offers martinis and frites for £10 from 5pm on Mondays and Sundays, one of the best value versions in the city, and the setting makes it feel considerably more expensive.
Rita's, Carnaby
Another great affordable option, American restaurant Rita's has introduced a 10 After 10 offering where diners can order a £10 martini, best enjoyed alongside a side of signature French fries.
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For more? Check out our gin drinkers' guide to the best martinis in London from Emma Stokes.
