Espresso Martini
Origin
Dick Bradsell · Soho Brasserie, London · 1983
Originally called the Vodka Espresso; created when a model asked Bradsell for a drink to 'wake me up and f*** me up'. Year is sometimes given as mid-1980s; 1983 is the most-cited date.
A caffeinated classic — rich, slightly sweet, with a gorgeous crema.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Vodka
- 1 oz Kahlúa
- 1 oz freshly brewed Espresso (or strong coffee)
- ½ oz Simple Syrup
Instructions
- Brew the espresso and let it cool slightly.
- Combine all ingredients in a shaker with ice.
- Shake hard for 15 seconds — the vigorous shake creates the crema.
- Fine-strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
Tips
- Fresh espresso gives the best crema on top.
- Shake harder than you think — the foam is the hallmark of this drink.
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