Orlando’s Best Espresso Martinis and Immersive Sips
Do you love coffee? And do you like cocktails? The espresso martini is a contemporary classic that has gained global popularity.
The coffee martini has a captivating backstory. It was not invented by a French or an Italian bartender. This creation from England by Dick Bradsell, a renowned bartender in London, is known as the creator of this iconic drink during the vibrant 1980s.
There’s a tale that a renowned model once requested a drink to “wake me up and… then fuck me up” (ok, she probably didn’t say the phrase but perhaps was thinking it). Bradsell’s solution was nothing short of brilliant. He mixed vodka, Kahlua and Tia Maria liqueur, sugar, and a shot of fresh espresso. After shaking the shit out of that shaker, this liquid froth turned into a concoction that promised to awaken the senses. Hence, the first “Vodka Espresso” was born in that moment. It rapidly became a favorite since it was both new and delicious. Later on it became more popular as the Espresso Martini.
This cocktail is ideal for a night out on the town or a treat after dinner. It has a pleasing combination of bitterness, sweetness, and that unmistakable coffee smell. And in Orlando, where new ideas and pleasure come together, they aren’t just cocktails. Whether you’re enjoying the city’s lively nightlife, they are a must-have aspect of the immersive experience.
1. Jazz Plus Espresso Martini: A Rhapsody in a Glass
Jazz Plus is more than just a bar; it’s a sensory experience. You feel like you’re in a time of elegance and deep melody as soon as you walk in. Their setting is very classy, with luxurious velvet chairs, low lighting, and, of course, the constant beat of live music. The bar itself is a work of art. This setting is excellent for their famous coffee martini. It is a beautiful work of art that is rich and nicely balanced. The espresso’s slight sharpness and the liqueur’s sweetness go perfectly together. It’s the perfect drink to sip on while you listen to the relaxing music. It feels like it will last forever, a lovely break from the fast-paced nightlife in Orlando.
2. Bellhop’s Espresso Martini: The Best Time for Espresso Cocktails
When you walk into Bellhop, it’s like going back in time. This place is a real gem in downtown Orlando’s busy scene, and it’s in the old Angebilt Hotel. It’s a classy getaway from the modern world, where the glitz of the 1920s meets modern mixology. The way the room is set up is a work of art. The plush leather seats, beautiful chandeliers, and dark, rich wood make the room feel both sophisticated and inviting. I loved the decor, from the old luggage on the wall to the warm, cozy lighting.
There is something special about Bellhop. It easily changes from a stylish coffee shop during the day to a classy cocktail bar at night. Their coffee martini is exceptional since it has two identities. The bartenders are real artists. You can tell how much they love mixology by the way they make every drink. The espresso martini here is made with excellent care, and the flavor is wonderfully balanced, making it sing. It has a kick that feels just perfect and is creamy and smooth. I like to eat it with one of their beautiful pastries for a full experience. It’s a wonderful way to end a long day or start your night in a new way.
3. Estefan Kitchen’s Espresso Martini: A Drink That Tastes Like Cuba
When you go to Estefan Kitchen, you’re not just going out to eat. You’re about to take part in a full-blown Cuban culture event. Music legends Gloria and Emilio Estefan own this restaurant, a feast for the senses. The live music makes the place feel alive and makes you want to dance. The decor is a mix of modern elegance and rich cultural accents. There are bright paintings and a high-energy feeling that runs through the whole room.
Estefan Kitchen It’s the best place to have a cocktail that has a kick and a smooth finish. And that’s exactly what their espresso martini does. It’s a perfect mix of high-quality spirits and creamy coffee. It tastes like their famous café cubano, but with a more sophisticated and alcoholic touch.
Le Café de Paris: Paris in Every Espresso Cup
Le Cafe de Paris has excellent coffee, even though the article is about espresso martinis.
Occasionally you may want simplicity.
As soon as I step inside Le Cafe, I discover myself in an entirely different place. In the room, there is a delightful aroma of croissants, and, at the same time, the scent of strong coffee fills the air. The charming bistro tables and exquisite decorations, combined with the faint conversation, kind of make you feel as though you’re in Europe. This place exudes a sense of timelessness.
Undoubtedly, the best part is coffee. There is, in fact, no need to complicate things. Mastering the basics, indeed, is key. Typically, I order Café au Lait. They always serve it in a lovely bowl. Additionally, the coffee is both strong and smooth. Milk that has been steam-cooked to perfection is also calming and creamy. It is absolute joy.
I enjoy eating it, especially when paired with one of their freshly made almond croissants. The flaky pastry, combined with the sweet almond filling, along with the strong coffee, creates a marriage made in heaven. It’s a simple pleasure; however, it seems really fancy. This café truly immerses you in the experience; it encourages you to slow down and smell the coffee.
The creamy foam that rises when you shake fresh espresso with vodka and liqueurs is what gives this cocktail its unique character.
Some recipes rely on a single coffee liqueur, but the original concoction demanded a blend of two—Kahlúa and Tia Maria—along with sugar to elevate the flavor profile.
Bradsell’s take on the classic espresso martini
Let’s start with what you need
• 2 oz of vodka • 1 oz of robust espresso • 1/2 oz of Kahlúa • 1/3 oz Tia Maria • A little drop of simple syrup or 1 teaspoon of sugar • Garnish with 3 whole coffee beans • Lots of ice
How to go about it
1. Chill your glass. Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for that perfect, frosty touch.
2. Brew the espresso. Pull a bold shot of espresso and allow it to chill just enough to savor its depth. Many bartenders claim that freshly brewed coffee is the ultimate secret to achieving the perfect foam.
3. Then combine the vodka, espresso, Kahlúa, Tia Maria, and a touch of sugar in a cocktail shaker. Load that shaker up with a generous amount of fresh ice.
4. Give it a vigorous shake. Give those ingredients a vigorous shake for about 10 to 12 seconds. This technique is the secret behind that iconic frothy crown.
5. Then carefully pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer into your chilled glass. This will filter out any stray bits of ice or coffee grounds, ensuring a velvety finish.
6. Finally, arrange three coffee beans atop the foam. They are meant to embody the essence of vitality, prosperity, and joy.
Do you have any recipes or nominate a place that makes great espresso martinis? Please let us know.