Long before James Bond preferred them shaken, not stirred, martinis have been a happy hour favorite, and every NYC bar has their own taken on this classic cocktail. Since all martinis are not created equal, we’ve rounded up a list of our favorite concoctions, from dirty martinis to rosemary ones (really!). Don’t try them all at once.
Milk and Honey
Milk and Honey is renowned in the NYC bar scene, not only for their carefully crafted cocktails, but also for beginning the trend of speakeasy-themed bars around Manhattan. The trained mixologists will make you a new drink of choice, if you’ll explain what your booze preferences are, but the specialty martini is also top-notch, with Plymouth gin and extra olives. Drinks are pricy, but experts say the bar staff here is worth the extra fiver.
134 Eldridge St, Manhattan (212) 625-3397; milkandhoneynyc.com
Bemelman's at the Carlyle
For a martini in chic settings, head to the Carlyle Hotel, the site of many a famous guest since its creation in the 1920s. All of the US presidents since Harry S. Truman have lodged here, and many of them doubtless visited Bemelman’s bar, located inside the lobby, for one of their signature martinis. The drinks stay extra-cold thanks to smaller sized glasses, with refills delivered in a carafe on the side. Check out the famous murals of Central Park while you drink in this historic setting.
35 East 76th St, Manhattan thecarlyle.com
Pravda
For those who prefer their martinis with vodka instead of gin, head to Pravda, a caviar bar hidden underground in a dark Nolita lounge. Pravda is known for its variety of flavored martinis, from chocolate to rosemary, and vodka enthusiasts will have their pick at this Russian-themed speakeasy. It serves over 75 varieties of the spirit from a dozen countries, but we recommend you stick with Russian vodka and pair it with an order of pierogies (Russian potato dumplings)
281 Lafayette St, Manhattan (212) 226-4696; pravdany.com
Pegu Club
At Pegu Club, martini fans will find a throwback to the days of the classic cocktail (drinks are even served in vintage glasses). The martinis are on the dry side, with a house version is made with Hendrick’s gin and heavy on the vermouth. However, mixologist Audrey Sanders, who got her start at Bemelman’s, will change the mix to suit your preferences; she already has an alternative for those who hate the dry martini: known as the Fitty-Fitty, it gives you more gin for your dollar.
77 W. Houston St, 2nd fl, Manhattan peguclub.com
Babbo
Our favorite martini at a restaurant, rather than a bar, can be found at Mario Batali’s famed Italian joint Babbo. Although its specializes in Italian wine, with several specialty tastings a year, the dirty martini here is simple perfection, with Italian olives that compliment the rest of the meal. Stop by the bar for a glass after work, or enjoy one over a larger meal.
110 Waverly Pl, Manhattan (212) 777-0303; babbonyc.com
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