City Editor Bella here. 👋 Remember when I asked for your espresso martini recommendations? Well, I bopped around town to do some taste testing, and per usual, I was impressed with your suggestions. Here are my favorites of the bunch, plus a few extras that I didn’t get to try (yet).
Editor’s sips
Uptown Lounge, 3400 Main St., KCMO | Coined as the Leather Elbows — this take on the classic cocktail was made with rye instead of vodka.
Cheval, 3940 Main St., KCMO | It’s not on the main menu, so make sure to ask your bartender. This epsresso martini is not too sweet and not too strong — just right.
The Campground, 1531 Genessee St., KCMO | Have you ever seen an espresso martini on tap? Well, you will here.
Cliff’s Taphouse, 3044 Gillham Rd., KCMO | While many of the after dinner cocktails include espresso, the Kris’s Cold Brew Martini knocks it out of the park for dessert drink lovers.
The Well, 7421 Broadway St., KCMO | This cold brew style martini is the perfect way to start your night out in Waldo.
Green Lady Lounge, 1809 Grand Blvd., KCMO | The classic espresso martini is delicious, but try leveling it up to the specialty cocktail, Kansas City Coffee.
Reader recommendations
“Hi, love them too! Brown and Loe, Farina, Julep — all good... I’ve also seen one on the menu at Paros Estiatorio but haven’t tried it yet. Cheers!” — Reader, Courtney J.
“The absolute best espresso martini in KC can be found at the French Market in Prairie Village!” — Reader, Kimberly H.
“Try Hand in Glove in Lee’s Summit for espresso martini as well as their Smoked Vanilla if looking for bourbon.” — Jennifer O.
“Although I honestly haven’t tried it myself, Goat and Rabbit has one! West 39th in KCMO (Midtown area). I love everything else about this place so presume the espresso martini would be good, too! Cheers!” — Reader, Sarah B.
With a twist
Mean Mule, 1733 Locust St., KCMO | The Stir Crazy is an agave-based espresso drink that I could not get enough of — it actually tastes similar to a Negroni, but with cold brew.
Nighthawk, 1228 Baltimore Ave., KCMO | If you’re looking to cool down and still get that coffee flavor, the Frozen KC Coffee is your new best friend.
