Categories: Food & Drink

15 of the best spots in Toronto to get Espresso Martinis

Photo via @amaltoronto on Instagram

Oh, Espresso Martinis – they’ll do it for ya! It’s one of the most popular signature cocktails you can get. Caffeinated, frothy, and with a hint of sweetness, it’s a great option if you’re looking for a pick-me-up on a late night out. And sometimes, it’s a MUST.

Depending on the establishment that you’re at, they may differ in taste. Maybe a bit on the bitter side, extra frothy or simply sweet, there’s no denying they are an excellent cocktail choice. You can’t go wrong.

Of course, every bartender adds their own flare, making every drink unique. But if you’re on the hunt for the perfect Espresso Martini or would like to try one and not know where to start, we’ve got you covered.

Here’s where you can get some of the best Espresso Martinis in Toronto:

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Amal

This sophisticated Yorkville restaurant is a stunning spot for your Girls Night Out plans. The interior, ambiance, and bar service stands out above them all. Whether you’re there for dining or out for drinks, try their version of the classic Espresso martini. It’s composed of Kettle One vodka, Tia Maria coffee liquor, and a shot of espresso.

Where: 131 Bloor St West 2nd Floor

Bar Koukla

The Ossington strip is home to some of Toronto’s best bars around. That’s where you’ll find Bar Koukla, a beloved spot known for its Aegean flavours. Not only is their menu top-notch, but so is their cocktail menu. You’ll have to try them all at some point but definitely start your night with their espresso martini.

Where: 88 Ossington Ave

Bar Lala

Located within Leña Restaurant is a very special hidden bar, found on the lower level named Bar Lala. Here’s where you’ll also enjoy a delicious Espresso Martini. It’s made with Kahlúa, Smirnoff vodka, Espresso, and Espresso beans. They’re open Wednesday to Saturday from 5:30 PM til late.

Where: 176 Yonge St, Toronto

Bar St. Lo

Espresso martinis are usually made with vodka but at Bar St. Lo, they’ve made their own special version. It’s composed of Northern Keep vodka, Kahlua, Montenegro, mezcal, and espresso. The mezcal gives it that extra kick that the espresso may be lacking. It’s a booster and you may find yourself ordering more than just one.

Where: 26 Market St.

Daphne

The modern American-style restaurant and garden terrace, Daphne is known for its delicious offerings in Toronto’s financial district. But of course its cocktail menu is enough to convince to book a reservation.

Among its list of quality cocktail is its take on the Espresso Martini. The Midnight Cap, as it is so playfully named, is composed of Grey Goose vodka, tia maria, espresso, and maple cheese foam.

Delicious.

Where: 67 Richmond St W

Lobby

Queen St is blessed with some of the best bars and restaurants in the city and Lobby is one of them. Though they have a ton of delicious cocktails, don’t skip over the espresso martini. It’s made with Beattie’s vodka, Kahlua, an espresso shot, cinnamon, and cocoa.

Where: 1032 Queen St W

Lobster Burger Bar

If you’re a sucker for a sweetened coffee, check out Lobster Burger Bar’s special Espresso Martini. You can definitely taste the boldness of a classic espresso shot if that’s what you’re looking for but this cocktail is definitely on the sweeter side. You’ll find yourself ordering more than just one.

Where: 214 King St W

MARKED

Not only is MARKED a great all-inclusive brunch spot, but their cocktails are also top tier. Swap out that mimosa for one of their espresso martinis. You won’t regret it.

Where: 132 John St

Melrose On Adelaide

What makes a great cocktail is one you can enjoy without grimacing. Strong yet smooth to taste, sweet and delightful! Melrose On Adelaide’s Espresso martini offers just that. You’ll want to sip on this one very slowly just so it can last longer.

Where: 270 Adelaide St

Minami

King Street loves its espresso martinis and Minami knows it. They’ve created their own twist on the classic cocktail, Miso x Caramel x Espresso. It’s made of St. Remy VSOP, Briottet caramel, white miso, demerara, and espresso. It’s sweet to the point of perfection – a definite must-try.

Where: 225 King St West

Oretta

Now this is what we call a deliciously sweet twist on a classic. Order Oretta’s Tiramisu Espresso Martini.

It’s composed of Dillon’s vodka, fresh espresso, Cloud House coffee liqueur, Frangelico, mascarpone foam, cocoa powder, chocolate bitters, and topped with a chocolate straw.

It doesn’t get better than that. Or you can opt for their classic Espresso Martini which is a crowd pleaser. But don’t be boring, go all out!

Where: 633 King St West & 2131 Yonge St

Snakes & Latte

By far one of the best spots to get a classic Espresso Martini. Yes, you read that right.

Snakes & Lattes definitely knows how to brew some great coffee so it only makes sense their cocktail is amazing. It’s composed of Absolut Vodka, Kahlua Coffee Liqueur, Espresso, and sugar. If you want to kick it up a notch, add a shot of vanilla, salted caramel, hazelnut, peppermint, or mocha for an extra $1.

Where: 489 College St., 45 Eglinton Ave E., and 600 Bloor St West

Short Turn

From the team behind 416 Snack Bar comes Short Turn, an intimate bar that was created due to the popularity of its sister spot.

Need a kick? Order their Espresso Martini. It features vodka, espresso, house coffee liqueur and rich syrup.

Where: 576 Queen St West

Vela

Vela’s Espresso martini is no joke. There’s a reason why this spot is one of the best restaurants to get the classic cocktail. It has the right amount of froth to espresso ratio so you’ll get the best sip every time.

Where: 90 Portland St