The Espresso Martini, a sleek blend of vodka, espresso, and coffee liqueur, has become a modern classic in the cocktail world. Today, nearly every bar and restaurant serves it, but it’s a relatively new addition to cocktail menus. Its story begins in the 1980s in London, where legendary bartender Dick Bradsell crafted the drink that would eventually become a nightlife staple. As the story goes, a young model walked into Fred’s Club in Soho and asked for something that would “wake me up, and then f*** me up.” Bradsell responded by combining vodka with a fresh shot of espresso and a splash of Kahlúa, shaking it vigorously, and serving it in a martini glass. The drink was originally dubbed the “Vodka Espresso” but later evolved into the now-iconic “Espresso Martini.”
Is the story true? Who’s to say? Whether or not the story is entirely accurate, there’s no denying that Espresso Martinis are now a powerhouse of the cocktail world.
Stretching Definitions
Despite not being a true martini—there’s no gin or vermouth involved—the cocktail’s martini glass presentation and sophisticated flair helped cement its name. In the 1990s and early 2000s, the Espresso Martini gained popularity in upscale bars and cocktail lounges, admired for its balance of smooth caffeine kick and boozy bite. However, it wasn’t until the cocktail renaissance of the 2010s that the drink saw a true global resurgence.
A Canvas for Cocktail Creativity
The renewed interest in craft cocktails and quality ingredients elevated the Espresso Martini from a party drink to a mixology favorite. Bartenders began experimenting with cold brew, house-made coffee liqueurs, and flavored vodkas to put their own spin on the classic. At Border Brewery, we top ours with freshly shredded Parmesan cheese. If you think that’s an odd combination, don’t knock it till you try it! The salty taste of the Parmesan is the perfect complement to the other flavors. The drink’s photogenic crema and luxurious reputation also helped it flourish on social media, where it continues to thrive as a brunch favorite or late-night indulgence.
Nostalgic Meets Modern
Today, the Espresso Martini is more than a nostalgic throwback; it’s a bar menu mainstay that bridges the gap between dessert and digestif. Its unique appeal lies in the way it blends two beloved rituals—coffee and cocktails—into one indulgent experience. Whether enjoyed at a rooftop bar or made at home with a Nespresso shot and vodka, the Espresso Martini remains a bold, buzzy symbol of cocktail culture.
