Whether you’re feeling a light and tart lemon drop or want a daring extra dirty classic, sometimes you just want a bloody martini. And who can blame you?
One of the best known cocktails in existence, the martini dates back to 1863 where the standard recipe consisted of half a wine glass of Old Tom Gin and half a wine glass of vermouth.
It wasn’t until the Prohibition era, where illegally made gin made it the predominant cocktail of the mid-20th century, the martini gained a reputation of being “old-fashioned” and its signature elegant glass became standard.
By the time the 90’s rolled around, the martini had begun to take on many twists and revisions. With all that’s out there, here’s some of the best New York City has to shake and serve up.
1. Pegu Club (77 West Houston Street)
Climb the stairway up to this chic SoHo lounge, which doesn’t only mimic its ambiance after the gin houses of Britain. The spirits used in their classic martinis are top notch on top of their already perfected craftsmanship of this cocktail.
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They do stray from the ordinary though and feature a number of original creations, such as their Earl Grey MarTEAni, which uses Earl Grey tea-infused gin, lemon juice, frothed egg and sugar for a smooth, effortless sip every time.
2. Brooklyn Social (355 Smith Street - Brooklyn)
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This dimly lit Gowanus cocktail bar doesn’t look like much on the outside. But duck inside to discover an old-school Italian gentleman’s club turned into an intimate yet lively lounge that offers a healthy selection of unique drinks.
As far as martinis, Brooklyn Social’s innovative menu doesn’t disappoint. Among their headliners is the Neapolitan, a cool blend of Absolut Citron vodka, Italian triple sec, lemon and pomegranate juice.
3. The Campbell Apartment (15 Vanderbilt Avenue)
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Situated amid the hustle of Grand Central Station, this refined watering hole is located in the former private office and salon of finance tycoon John W. Campbell. The dark reds and high ceilings give off the aura of timely elegance.
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Although there’s a dress code, their drinks here are worth ditching the sneakers for. Their superbly smooth classic Delmonico Martini is reason enough to miss your train.
4. Art Bar (52 8th Avenue)
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All the lights shine on the martinis at Art Bar, hidden right off West 4th Street in the West Village. Amid their whimsical décor you’ll find a lengthily list of cocktails, but you come here for a martini.
The plush couches in the back are perfect for a seasonal sip, like their sweet Pumpkin Pie Martini for fall, or to get lost in one of their more unique concoctions, like a Butterscotch Martini, laden with vanilla vodka and hazelnut liqueur.
,5. Jade Lounge (1 Station Square – Queens)
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A quintessential example of a hidden gem, the Jade Lounge is tucked away in Forest Hills, but it’s well worth the MetroCard swipe. Journey past the glittering koi pond in this Zen-inspired eatery, which also serves great Asian fusion dishes.
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Flip to their cocktail menu and take your taste buds on an exotic trip. The house favorites are their Lychee Martini, which uses fresh fragrant lychee juice, and their signature and savory Asian PearTini.
6. Pravda (281 Lafayette Street)
If you’re looking to catch James Bond strut in for his usual order, you just might find him here. Part French bistro and part Russian caviar bar, this downtown diamond has over 70 types of vodka, including a number infused in-house.
Their Caviar Martini, cucumber-dill vodka and a liberal spoonful of caviar, is only second in caliber to The Oligarch, a luxurious combination of Grey Goose VX, Vermouth and Green Chartreuse served with a Caviar spoon.
7. Delia’s Lounge (9224 3rd Avenue – Brooklyn)
You’ll think you’re inside an Arabian harem when you step inside Delia’s for the first time. In a wash of red, orange and gold hues are myriads of ornate pillows and supple sofas. Their eclectic food menu is nothing to sneeze at either.
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When you come to the cocktails, be sure to take a gander at their Raspberry Lemon Drop Martini, a playful twist on the typical libation. If you're in need of a pick-me-up, their rich and bold Espresso Martini will have you bouncing back in no time.
Check out 7 Best Places to Find the Most Delicious Sangria in NYC.
[Feature Image Courtesy Guest of a Guest]