Where To Get An Espresso Martini In The Bay Area
Presented by
Rémy Martin
We’re not here for philosophical questions like, “Is an espresso martini truly a martini if it doesn’t have gin or vermouth?” Just like the age old question of whether or not a hot dog is a sandwich, it doesn’t matter. What matters is that espresso martinis are delicious. So if you don’t happen to have the ingredients to make one at home, you can grab an excellent version at any of the spots on this guide.
This content is produced by The Infatuation in partnership with Rémy Martin.
The Spots
The cocktail bar in San Francisco’s Mission District has a hyper-’60s aesthetic, and is where to go when you feel like channeling your inner Mad Men. They also happen to make amazing cocktails - and espresso martinis, of course. Order one alongside light bites like french fries, sandwiches, salads, or a cheese plate, and enjoy it all on their sidewalk parklet or for takeout.
This Oakland cocktail bar pays tribute to Hong Kong cinema with its stunning neon lights and sculptures. Their cocktails, snacks, and desserts are works of art, too. In the pandemic era, they pivoted to an online marketplace, which offers takeout items like batched cocktails for one or two people, hojicha shortbread, black sesame banana cookies, and frozen buns you steam at home.
If you’re looking for a spot to grab an espresso martini and choose from a range of meal options, check out The Vesper. The Campbell cocktail bar serves beer, wine, and cocktails, and a menu of things like deviled eggs, prosciutto-wrapped dates, pulled pork sandwiches, and pesto gnocchi. Their heated patio is open, and takeout and delivery are also available.
Located in Downtown San Jose, the whiskey-focused cocktail bar also makes espresso martinis. Order your cocktail to go or enjoy it on their dog-friendly outdoor patio, which also features DJs. And while you’re there, consider ordering an olive roll stuffed with cream cheese and confit garlic butter.
This Willow Glen restaurant and bar makes classic French brasserie fare with a California twist - think burgers, beef tartare, french onion soup, and parmesan risotto with crab. And, yes, they also have espresso martinis, plus other cocktails, sparkling wines, and spirits. Make a reservation if you’re looking to dine al fresco, or place an order online for takeout.
The Battery is technically a members-only social club, networking space, and events center situated in SF’s Financial District. But they do have a pretty large garden and a heated rooftop patio for outdoor seating. Food, cocktails, coffee, and tea are also served all day. Reservations are required.