Shaken or stirred, these eight District favorites mix up martinis with some epic twists. 
Espresso Martini at Le Diplomate
Bar Charley
How Charley Drinks a Martini
With nearly 100 cocktails on the menu, it is safe to say Bar Charley is no stranger to the martini. But how does Charley drink his? With gin, of course, as well as a mix of dolin dry vermouth and orange bitters. Head down to the brick-lined lower level for a glimpse of the impressively stocked bar and a chance to watch master bartenders in action—at this underground find, all we can say is bottoms up. 1825 18th St. NW, 202.627.2183, barcharley.com
barmini by Jose Andrés
Vesper Martini
Steps away from minibar by Jose Andrés is a cocktail-dedicated spinoff of the infamous chef’s innovative kitchen. It’s no surprise that testing out cutting edge techniques and bold flavors is the name of the game at barmini. Alongside the exciting experiential flights are perfected classics like the Vesper Martini with Vodka, Gin and Kina Lillet. 501 9 St. NW, 202.393.4451, minibarbyjoseandres.com
Jane Jane
Classic and Espresso Martinis
Whether you’re pro gin or vodka, a good drink is something we can all toast to. At Jane Jane, the classic martini is made with gin, dolin dry vermouth and orange bitters. However, for vodka lovers, an espresso martini finishes off cocktail hour nicely with rich coffee liqueur, refreshing cold brew, oloroso sherry, chocolate bitters and a dash of simple syrup. Cheers to a martini truce. 1705 14th St. NW, 202.481.2166, janejanedc.com
Lady Bird
The Service
Whimsical wallcoverings and large windows wrap the interiors at Lady Bird, showcasing the infamous DC skyline. Perched atop The Banneker Hotel, this lively lounge delivers the gold standard with ‘The Service.’ Expert bartenders bring a customizable martini experience tableside, with selections of gin, vodka and garnishes—this is what we call a game changer. 1315 16th St. NW, 202.232.8000, ladybirddc.com
Le Diplomate
Espresso Martini
The beloved 14th Street eatery continues to raise the bar for Parisian favorites and beyond, and the espresso martini is no exception. Tito’s vodka, Café Amaro (a slightly sweet coffee liqueur) and smooth Nux Alpina walnut liqueur make for the most luxurious post-dinner indulgence. And while choosing just one dessert doesn’t feel right, you can’t go wrong with the vanilla crème brûlée or profiteroles. 1601 14th St. NW, 202.332.3333, lediplomatedc.com
Off the Record
Pear Martini
An excellent spot to eavesdrop on whispers from The Hill, Off the Record caters to cocktail lovers across the aisle. Step inside the glamorous Hay-Adams Hotel and find a coveted spot among the swanky red interiors. Inside, the Pear Martini is the perfect sweet sip with Grey Goose pear vodka, Saint Germain, chambord and pineapple juice. With drinks flowing, who knows what you’ll overhear. 800 16th St. NW, 202.638.6600, hayadams.com
Silver Lyan
Silver Service Martini
Silver Lyan takes lock and key to a whole new level, serving up drinks from inside the former Vault of Riggs Bank. This spot offers a martini four ways with a choice of gin and orange bitters; belvedere vodka served dry with Amalfi lemon distillat; gin served 50:50 with Dolin vermouth or vodka served dirty with house brine. Regardless of your preference, each lux drink arrives with an oyster, olive, house-pickled onion and lemon. 900 F St. NW, 202.788.2799, silverlyan.com
Urban Roast
Espresso Martini Flight
This Penn Quarter eatery may just be a martini lover's dream. Not only is Thursday’s happy hour dedicated to the classic drink, but their menu features a classic dirty martini and eight specialty martinis: Think white chocolate raspberry, lemon drop and Persian sour martini. And did we mention the flight of espresso martinis featuring flavors like coconut, toasted almond and more—why pick when you can have them all? 916 G St. NW, 202.519.4629, urbanroastdc.com
Photography by: Max Mester with Starr Restaurants; Rey Lopez; Reema Desai; Courtesy of The Hay-Adams
