It’s true, espresso martinis are a classic (and for good reason), and right now they’re enjoying a period of increased popularity. Whether their time in the spotlight is due to a surge in nostalgia or a need for a more sophisticated take on the Red Bull vodka, we’re here for it. Grab your friends, grab your fam, and get your caffeine fix at cocktail hour and with these espresso martinis around the bay.
San Francisco
Via Balboa Cafe
(3199 Fillmore St // Marina)
The first spot on our list is a San Francisco staple in its own right, but it’s also known far and wide for its Espressotinis, which you can enjoy one of three ways: on nitro draft, made to order (a great option if you’re after decaf), and in a can. Walk by on any weekend day, and you’re guaranteed to see the fresh and foamy cocktails on every table.
(2209 Polk St // Russian Hill)
Macondray’s vibes are every bit as good as their Midnight Mookie – an espresso martini made with hazelnut and coconut milk that’s smooth as can be. They’re only open in the evening, but they have a $1.50 Oyster Happy Hour every Sunday and Monday, so you can grab a bite with drinks if you’re into that kind of thing.
Via Wilder
(3154 Fillmore St // Marina)
The Wilder Espresso-Tini is a can’t miss on your ‘tini tour, though it’s actually made with cold brew instead of espresso. The addition of horchata makes it extra special, especially if enjoyed at brunch with Whiskey Glazed French Toast or Smoked Brisket Grilled Cheese. Drink up now, thank us later!
(2049 Fillmore St // Pacific Heights)
The Marina might be the epicenter of espresso martini action in the city, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t get a mean martini further down Fillmore. Come to The Tailor’s Son for the bangin’ risotto and stay for the after dinner drinks – their espresso martini is made with coffee liqueur and espresso, so you get more bang for your buck.
East Bay
Via Berkeley Social Club
(2050 University Ave // Berkeley)
You’re basically obligated to take your friends to Berkeley Social Club now and again to catch up – it’s right there in the name – and while it’s no secret that they have some of the tastiest toasts around, they’ve also got an espresso martini that’s no joke. Get social and sip on a vodka and Kahlua combo that will rock your world.
(2200 Oxford St // Berkeley)
Gather’s espresso martini is the perfect option of you're into the classics — it's perfectly made, the old-fashioned way, with coffee liqueur and vodka. Once you're done with those, get another round of inventive cocktails, like their Margaron (tequila, mezcal, Cabernet Sauvignon) or even a non-alcoholic option from their expansive mocktail menu.
Via Sobre Mesa
(1618 Franklin St // Oakland)
This Afro-Latino tapas restaurant is a tropical oasis right in downtown Oakland, and while it might not be the first place you’d expect to find a great espresso martini, it’s definitely not to be overlooked. Jerry’s Juice is made with Amarula cream liqueur to give it a little something extra – plus, how can we refuse a drink with a fun name?!
(5422 College Ave // Oakland)
If you’re wanting a brunch martini any day of the week, you’re in for quite a treat at Kitchen Story. Their espresso martini comes with crème de cacao, half and half, and chocolate syrup, so it’s the perfect thing to pair with a hearty meal, whether you call it an appetizer or dessert (or both, we won’t tell).
South Bay + Peninsula
Via Original Joe's
(11 Glenwood Ave // Daly City)
Original Joe’s is no secret for the truest espresso martini fans, and with locations in San Francisco and Daly City, it’s easy to get to from just about anywhere on the peninsula. With Bailey’s, Kahlua, Frangelico, and Tuaca in the mix, their take on the espresso martini is a drink you can’t miss.
(3060 Olsen Dr Ste 50 // San Jose)
For those days that you’re craving mediterranean but also *need* an espresso martini, there’s no better place than Meso. Their coffee cocktail is a dream combo of vodka, cold brew liqueur, and espresso that’s sure to wake you up. As a bonus, it’s hella atmospheric – there are even trees growing in the restaurant!
(223 E 4th Ave, San Mateo)
Espresso martinis feel like they were invented just for dessert after a delicious Italian meal, and while their origin story is actually English, who are we to deny a feeling?! The Pausa Dopo Cena is the perfect way to wrap up an evening of pizza, pasta, and plenty of formaggi at Pausa, and don’t worry, we’ll spare you the full history lesson.
(700 Welch Rd #110, Palo Alto)
We’ve already established that we love Italian food, and Vino Enoteca is no exception. Sip martinis made the classic way (with a bonus of addition of cold brew liqueur) alongside a margherita pizza or tortelloni di zucca, and finish it off with a little more espresso in the form of tiramisu.
North Bay
(660 Bridgeway // Sausalito)
With waterfront dining, city views, a menu that will please everyone in your crew, and espresso martinis, Barrel House is hard to beat. Their take on the classic cocktail skips the vodka, but stays plenty boozy with a combo of crème de cacao and Kahlua. Pair it with Linguini Clam Sauce or Pineapple Glazed BBQ Ribs for a meal you won’t soon forget!
(2130 4th St // San Rafael)
Gluten free friends, rejoice! Did you know that there’s an entirely gluten free breakfast and lunch spot in Marin? And did you know that they have espresso martinis too?! Swing by when you’re in the mood for a classic, straightforward cocktail and comforting meal. You’re guaranteed a happy belly, no matter your dietary preferences.
Via Murphy's
(464 1st St E // Sonoma)
The aptly named True Irish Martini at Murphy’s might cut some corners according to espresso martini purists, but we think it’s just as deserving of a spot on our list. Concocted with espresso vodka, Guinness, and Irish cream, it’s unlike any martini you’ve had before, but we’re willing to bet you won’t be such a purist after trying it.
(975 Clinton St // Napa)
Napa Valley Bistro is known for serving up American classics with a twist – their twist on the espresso martini? It’s made with soju, a Korean spirit distilled from rice and barley, instead of vodka. With the addition of simple syrup, it’s a sweet and simple cocktail that’s sure to satisfy your craving and give you a good buzz.
Written by Katherine Andrews
