The Best Martinis in New Orleans

What is it about a martini that makes it such a classic? Is it the sleek, sexy glass? The endless variations? The air of sophistication? Perhaps it's the olives, the twist, the espresso, vodka, or gin. This little cocktail is the gift that keeps on giving.

In a city like New Orleans, where cocktails are practically second nature, is it any wonder that martinis–in all their many forms–are having a moment? Sure, many places serve martinis, but not all of them do it in a way that makes our hearts sing. Whether gin, vodka, dirty, espresso, or downright wacky, here’s our list of the best martinis in New Orleans.

Columns Hotel Bar | The Columns Martini

At the Columns Hotel Bar Uptown, enjoy the Columns Martini with accouterments on ice: Grey Goose, Bombay Sapphire, dry vermouth, brine, and pickled vegetables. It’s a sophisticated twist on a classic.

Chandelier Bar | Chandelier Martini

Head over to where the Central Business District meets the edge of the French Quarter and indulge in the classic Chandelier Martini at Chandelier Bar in the Four Seasons Hotel. The opulent surroundings elevate the decadence of this timeless cocktail.

Jolie | Espresso Martini  

Nestled in the Arts District, Jolie’s espresso martini is perfect for a romantic night out. Made with Grey Goose Vodka, Galliano Ristretto, cacao tuile, and smoked salt, it adds a pep to your evening.

Paradise Lounge | Vesper Bergamotto

At the Hotel Saint Vincent Uptown, stop into the Paradise Lounge or Chapel Club for a cocktail. The Vesper Bergamotto, shaken with Italicus Rosolio di Bergamotto and a twist, is a must-try. Don't miss their espresso martini with Tempus Fugit cacao and Frangelico!

Superior Seafood | Classic Martini

Superior Seafood on St. Charles Avenue amazes with their Frozen French 75, but their classic martini is also a fan favorite. Combine that with their daily happy hour with $1.25 raw oysters, and you know where to find us!

Miss River | Flaming Espresso Martini

At the Four Seasons Hotel, enjoy the Flaming Espresso Martini at Miss River. This modern classic, flamed tableside with vodka, espresso, and Mr. Black Coffee Liqueur, is designed to keep the party going.

The Vintage | Bikini Martini

The Vintage calls our name with their stuffed beignets and their Bikini Martini, where orange bitters and lemon meet Hendricks gin and St. Germain for a summertime treat. Their “Espresso Yourself” is also a favorite.

Fives Bar | Lavender Cold Press

Nestled in Jackson Square in the French Quarter, Fives boasts amazing raw seafood and a martini menu that shines. The standout? The Lavender Cold Press, made with Toki Japanese Whiskey, coffee, honey, cream, and cinnamon. (Fun fact: you can also order the Columns Martini here – the bar and hotel have the same owner!)

The Franklin | Martini Menu

The Franklin, a small but mighty bar and restaurant in the Marigny, steals hearts with its martini menu. Choose from Dry, Wet, Dirty, Smoked, Gibson, or Vesper for a true martini paradise experience.

The Chloe Hotel | Hey Ma!

Uptown at The Chloe Hotel, the Hey Ma! Martini makes our hearts beam. This eclectic sip combines gin, vermouth, Parmesan, and tomato for a craving-worthy experience.

Commander’s Palace | 25 Cent Martinis

If you love martini lunches, you might already know about the 25-cent martinis at Commander’s Palace Uptown. Available on Thursdays and Fridays, these martinis are the perfect pairing for your lunch entrées, thanks to Aunt Dottie!

Margot’s | Mediterranean Freezer Gibson

Located in a quiet section of the Marigny, you’ll find Margot’s. While Margot’s has a stellar lineup of Negronis, we’re ordering their Mediterranean wonder—the Freezer Gibson. With olive oil gin, basil eau de vie, bay laurel vermouth, and a white balsamic melody with pearl onion, it’s a refreshing twist.

Jewel of the South | Jewel Martini

This James Beard Award-winning French Quarter spot is an all-star for cocktails and food. Their Jewel Martini, with Monkey 47 Gin, house Meursault vermouth, and orange bitters, is a favorite.

Peacock Room | Espresso Martini

At the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot’s Peacock Room, sip on an espresso martini made with Ketel One Vodka, St. George "Nola" coffee liqueur, and La Colombe coffee. It’s another prime stop for espresso martini lovers!