By Olivia Price and Fiona Good-Sirota By Olivia Price and Fiona Good-Sirota | March 21, 2024 | Food & Drink, Guides,
To shake or to stir? That is the question. Whether you prefer your martini dry, dirty or Bond-style, these Chicago spots pour out the best in the city.
Multiple locations / Website
Big deals and great conversations happen over ice-cold martinis at Gibsons. Whether you’re here for work or play, this iconic Gold Coast steakhouse serves some of the best martinis in the city.
See also: The 7 Best Cocktail Bars In Chicago
18 S. Michigan Ave. / Website
For an elevated martini, try Acanto’s Al Acanto. Small batch, handcrafted vermouth and the tangy citrus of Panarea gin create the unmatched dry taste of a martini. Finished off with a few olives, this is one of the best martinis in Chicago.
120 E. Delaware Place / Website
Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, it’s only fitting Adorn offers the perfect drink for every meal, and the increasingly popular triple espresso martini is ideal for day or night.
140 E. Walton Place / Website
As the second restaurant in Chicago to obtain a liquor license in 1933, Coq d’Or is a tried-and-true spot to get a good martini. Try the Executive Pour martini, a generous two-for-one: a martini with a side of martini.
See also: The 12 Best Margaritas In Chicago
8 W. Maple St. / Website
Maple & Ash’s Pornstar martini is undeniably refreshing with passion fruit, lemon and Grey Goose. Kick back in the martini lounge, where a warm atmosphere pairs perfectly with your drink.
1511 W. Balmoral Ave. / Website
If you're looking to explore new tastes, Marty’s is the place to be. This martini bar pours out the classics as well as interesting specials, such as the pineapple martini, strawberry shortcake and the crème brulée martini.
123 N. Jefferson St. / Website
Don't be afraid of this ghost: Sepia’s zesty, herbal Ghost Note martini is a must-try. The use of rhubarb and gentian root, a bitter floral herb, gives the drink a unique, tart taste you won’t soon forget.
See also: The 6 Best Palomas In Chicago
21 E. Hubbard St. / Website
Seafood and martinis make for a perfect pairing. Shaw’s crafts an incredible classic martini, along with other options like the punchy espresso martini. Both options are crafted with vodka for a smooth, dry taste.
613 N. Wells St., Ste. A / Website
This oyster and martini bar has a knack for serving up frothy toasted espresso martinis, created with Dark Matter espresso, Liquor 43 and vodka, garnished with a toasted marshmallow and caramelized walnuts. Pro-tip, visit during weeknights for happy hour.
See also: The 5 Best Cosmopolitans In Chicago
Photography by: Photo by PESCE HUANG