Here is our guide to the best martinis in Houston, whether you prefer them shaken or stirred.
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Step into the discreet and dimly lit “cocktail apartment,” for an elevated escapist experience. Refuge pays homage to some of the more under-appreciated spirits serving just over a dozen signature cocktails. If you’re looking for “the coldest martini in town,” you’re in luck. The only cocktail brought over from the now replaced Tongue Cut Sparrow, is Bobby’s Martini. Created by martini aficionado and owner Bobby Heugel, the crisp cocktail is presented on a custom brass tray alongside an assortment of olives, a house pickled onion, and cornichon. For a contemporary take on the Martini’s historic precursor, try Refuge’s Martinez made with more vermouth than gin and topped off with two dashes of Yuzu bitters. 1424 Westheimer Rd., refugehouston.com
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If you’re looking for a place with more bustle and a little less sophistication that still serves a mean Martini, head downstairs from Refuge to Anvil. Unlike its sister bar, Anvil toutes a list of 100 cocktails its owners Bobby Heugel and Steve Flippo believe you ought to try. Under the Herbal & Spirituous section you will find the tried and true classics, the Martini and Martinez, but don’t stop there. For a delicious riff off your favorite cocktail try the First Growth, a refreshing version made with sage, pineapple and elderflower, or the floral forward Lost in Translation made with Texas Gin, Japanese Shochu and a slightly salty finish of Fino sherry. 1424 Westheimer Rd. Ste. B, anvilhouston.com
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When it comes to Martinis, The Davenport Lounge has it covered. With over 40 specialty Martinis this eclectic and lively bar is always buzzing. For Martini-lovers, The Davenport is like a kid’s candy shop, with vodka-based boozy beverages such as Almond Joy, Cookies N’ Cream, and, of course, Chocolate Martinis. For those more in favor of the fruity flavors try out their Blueberry Lemondrop, Mango Tango, or Strawberry Fields Martini. Or perhaps dare to sip their more creative concoctions such as the B.O.M., a blood orange mix with sweet n’ sour topped with a champagne floater, or the Texas Tornado complete with a salted rim and jalapeño stuffed olives. 2115 Richmond Ave., thedavenportlounge.com
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Serving sophisticated, modern Martinis, Sushi Rebel has some of the best craft cocktails and an upscale ambiance. What’s better than enjoying fresh hand-rolled sushi with a luxurious Lychee Martini? Perhaps their most-ordered Martini, the signature Mango Martini is a mouth-watering mix of malibu mango rum, triple sec, mango puree, fresh lime, and orange juice, adorned with a bright tajin chili rim and fresh mango slice. Another fan favorite is the classic Espresso Martini, a perfect creamy pick-me-up. 1700 City Plaza Dr. Ste. 110, sushi-rebel.com
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This cozy restaurant nestled in the heart of Montrose is making its mark when it comes to the best Martinis in the neighborhood. Don’t be deterred by their unique ingredients like cocchi americano, verjus, chartreuse, and even a whole whipped egg, Bluedorn does Martinis exquisitely with the perfect balance of complimentary flavors. For an after-dinner digestive you have to try their Nitro Espresso Martini, a smooth and satisfying rendition of the traditional coffee cocktail, made on tap with Katz Nitro coffee, house amaro blend, coffee liqueur and bitters. 807 Taft St., bludornrestaurant.com
Photography by: COTTONBRO/PEXELS
