London's Best Espresso Martinis

The origins of the espresso martini are said to have started in Soho in 1983 at the bar of Dick Bradsell. After a request from a customer who wanted a drink that would "wake her up, and f*ck her up", Bradsell smashed together coffee and vodka and the rest was history. Nowadays it's commonplace on any cocktail bar menu, with everywhere from uptown restaurants to your local 'spoons offering to shake one up for you. But, if you really want to see where this classic cocktail can go, we've selected some spots to scope out the best espresso martinis in London.

Last edited by Kiera Chapman

Last updated on 9th April 2024




The Cocktail Club - Various Sites

Known for its sublime drinks selection, its no surprise that The Cocktail Club is one of the best places for espresso martinis in London. Head over to their haunts during happy hour, where you can catch these coffee-rich sips for a bargain price.

Common Late

In the mood for a class espresso martini? Head over to Common Late, a vintage apothecary tipple house on The Pavement. Exuding romance, warmth and the best cosy vibes in town, this intimate bar serves bespoke cocktails such as their signature-style espresso martini made with Peruvian caturra bean and Rye whisky, as well as light bites like delish charcuterie selections.

The Absinthe Parlour At The Last Tuesday Society

On Mare Street, you'll discover one of the most curious bars in the city serving up a sensational espresso martini. The Absinthe Parlour At The Last Tuesday Society is an intimate den full of eclectic ornaments, from taxidermy to scorpions in glass cabinets. Venture further into the colourful wonderland, past a luminous fish tank, to take a seat in a plush, red velvet booth and order a chocolate absinthe espresso martini. Perfect. 

Louche

If you're on the hunt for an espresso martini to trump them all, then this tipple at Soho bar Louche is in with a chance of coming out on top. Made using Bacardi 8, coffee liqueur, espresso and banana, it boasts a rich flavour with creamy, fruity notes. Enjoy it in the late-night music venue while catching a band or a spot of jazz.

Dishoom King's Cross

Sure, everyone raves about the food, but its Dishoom's Monsoon Martini that makes us weak at the knees. Catuai espresso comes 'vivified' with Luksusowa, chilli liqueur, walnut bitters and the perfect crema. And so what if you're having a night off the sauce, they've also concocted the Dry Monsoon Martini that loses the booze but none of the flavour.

Shoreditch Grind

If you're looking for the classic concoction done good then you should be making your way to Grind at your earliest possible convenience. A double shot of their house blend comes laced with Finlandia vodka and a touch of sugar syrup for a cold, refreshing cocktail designed for leisurely sipping. But if you are going for something a little bit more experimental, their Flat White Russian is a must-try.