It’s not a martini, and no one cares. (You can debate us on this all day but no vermouth, no martini!) Anyway it’s delicous. The Espresso “Martini” is sharp, cold, and wired—vodka, fresh espresso, and coffee liqueur, shaken until the top goes frothy. It’s the drink you order when the night’s getting late, but not over.

It’s rich without being sweet, crisp without being bitter. Served in a coupe, it feels dressed up but never fussy. Just keep it cold and never, ever use hot coffee.

Recipe

• 2 oz vodka
  
  

• 1 oz fresh espresso (or cold brew concentrate)
  
  

• ½ oz coffee liqueur (like Kahlúa or Mr. Black)
  Shake hard with ice until frothy, then strain into a chilled coupe. Garnish with 3 coffee beans.
  
  

A note: Invented in the 1980s by London bartender Dick Bradsell, allegedly for a model who asked for something to “wake me up and f*** me up.” It’s not a true martini—no gin, no vermouth—but the name stuck, thanks to the glass and the attitude.

When we serve it: Late dinners, post-show drinks, or when the night needs a second wind.