History of the Espresso Martini

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Before the advent of Vodka Redbull, a different concoction emerged as the go-to drink for those looking to imbibe whilst ensuring they stayed awake to make the most of their night. The Espresso Martini, an alluring combination of coffee liqueur, vodka, sugar syrup, and freshly brewed espresso, creates a velvety, indulgent cocktail that's both stimulating and satisfying. However, moderation is key; otherwise, you might find yourself wide-eyed and restless for far longer than you'd planned!

TL;DR

• Espresso Martini was invented by Dick Bradsell in London, 1983.
• Originally called Vodka Espresso, it was made to "wake up and fuck up" drinkers.
• The recipe has evolved, leading to variations like the Espresso Daiquiri and Cuppa Joe.
• The cocktail remains a global staple, loved for its rich, invigorating blend of alcohol and caffeine.

Who Invented the Espresso Martini?

The Espresso Martini stands out as a modern classic within the cocktail realm, gracing menus worldwide. Unlike other cocktails with labyrinthine histories, the tale of the Espresso Martini is refreshingly straightforward yet intriguing. Originally coined the Vodka Espresso, this drink was born in 1983, attributed to the creativity of bartender Dick Bradsell during his tenure at the Soho Brasserie in London.

According to Bradsell, the inspiration struck one fateful evening when a young woman approached the bar and requested a drink that would "wake her up and fuck her up". Vodka was the popular spirit of the era, and Bradsell’s bar station happened to be conveniently located near the espresso machine. Thus, the marriage of vodka and espresso seemed not only logical but serendipitous.

The original recipe Bradsell concocted included vodka, freshly brewed espresso, Kahlua, Tia Maria, and sugar syrup, resulting in a powerful elixir with an intense coffee kick. This variation, however, did not remain static. As the ‘90s approached, the cocktail culture began to shift, and with it, Bradsell made adaptations to cater to the martini-loving crowd, refining the recipe and renaming it. By 1998, when Bradsell was managing The Pharmacy in Notting Hill, the drink underwent another nominal transformation but retained its spirited essence. It was during this time that the name we now universally recognize—Espresso Martini—ultimately stuck.

Variations of the Espresso Martini

The enduring allure of the Espresso Martini lies in its versatility and the endless potential for creative riffs. Even beyond the well-known versions created by Bradsell, bartenders and aficionados alike have tinkered, modified, and innovated new iterations of this beloved cocktail. Here are some noteworthy variations:

Espresso Daiquiri

In this refreshing take, rum replaces vodka, bringing a tropical twist to the rich, coffee-infused profile. It's a delicious option that offers a more mellow, rounded flavor.

Cuppa Joe

For those with a penchant for nutty flavors, the Cuppa Joe incorporates hazelnut liqueur. Its delightful mix of sweet and toasty notes adds depth and complexity to the classic formula.

Flat White Martini

This variation swaps out Kahlua for Irish Cream liqueur, creating a creamier, smoother take on the Espresso Martini. It's perfect for those who enjoy a softer, more velvety finish.

Irish Espresso’tini

Take it a step further by adding vanilla vodka to the mix, enhancing the cocktail with layers of vanilla sweetness that play beautifully with the coffee elements.

Lotus Espresso

If indulgence is the goal, the Lotus Espresso is your pick, which substitutes sugar syrup with maple syrup. This option offers a thicker consistency and a unique maple-flavored richness.

No matter which variation you choose, an Espresso Martini isn't complete without its signature garnish: three coffee beans adorning the frothy top, symbolizing health, wealth, and happiness—a charming and timeless touch.

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Espresso Martini

Recipe card

4.87 / 5

Cocktail glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink

15 key ingredients

Cocktail Of The Day

Base ingredient

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Coffee

Calories

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220 calories

Alcohol content

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22.61% | 2.6 units of alcohol ^*

Details

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Classic

Shaken

Created by Dick Bradsell in 1983 and now loved the world over, this is the best-balanced combination for a lovely Espresso Martini.

Ingredients

Coffee liqueur

Vodka

Sugar Syrup

Coffee

Method

How to make a Espresso Martini

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes

Pour all ingredients into a cocktail shaker filled with ice

Shake vigorously; it should be somewhat frothy

Strain into a chilled cocktail glass and serve

~ Depending on your palette you may wish to add a little sugar syrup to the mix before shaking. ~

Makers mode

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From Trend to Timeless Classic

The Espresso Martini’s journey from a spontaneous creation in the early '80s to a staple on cocktail menus globally speaks volumes about its universal appeal. Initially enjoyed by London’s trendsetters, the drink’s deliciously balanced flavors have since captured the palates of coffee lovers and cocktail enthusiasts worldwide.

At its core, what makes the Espresso Martini truly special is its blend of two beloved substances—alcohol and caffeine. The rich texture, the aroma of freshly brewed espresso, and the invigorating energy it bestows are hallmarks of the drink’s identity. Bradsell’s invention, though simple in its ingredients, ingrains itself as a symbol of modern sophistication and timeless indulgence.

As the Espresso Martini continues to thrive in the contemporary cocktail scene, it serves as a testament to the art of mixology and the innovative spirit of bartenders everywhere. Each variation, each twist of the recipe, reaffirms its status not just as a fleeting trend, but as a classic. So next time you're out and see an Espresso Martini on the menu, remember the rich history it carries and savor every sip of this caffeinated marvel.