Espresso Martinis Take Over Detroit’s Bar Scene with Unique Twists

Sales of espresso martinis shot up 50% in 2023. Forbes reports the drink now ranks among the six most-ordered cocktails across the United States. Seven spots around Metro Detroit have added their own takes on this coffee-spiked beverage.

Why the comeback? Coffee has grown into something bigger. EHL Hospitality Business School points out that coffee sommeliers have popped up as specialists who know bean origins, how beans get processed, and different ways to brew them.

At Rudy's Prime Steakhouse in Clarkston, bartenders mix Gypsy vodka with Kahlua, Licor 43, and espresso. Aurora Italiana in West Bloomfield and Aurora on the Lake in Commerce Township both serve up vodka blended with Kahlua and espresso for $8 when happy hour rolls around. All pricing and restaurant information in this article comes from Hour Detroit. 

Side Hustle Lounge in Detroit makes a Limoncello Espresso Martini. They use house-made limoncello mixed with Madcap Coffee. You can get $3 off this drink Monday through Friday between 4 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Prime29 Steakhouse in West Bloomfield brews fresh espresso, then combines it with vanilla vodka, Kahlua, and Frangelico. Over at Kamper's Rooftop Lounge in Detroit, they pour the cocktail straight from a draft tap using Ketel One vodka, Licorice 43, and oloroso sherry.

The London Chop House in Detroit sticks with Stoli Vanil Vodka. They add Kahlua and a shot of espresso. Lumen in Detroit goes with Grind Espresso liqueur paired with Wheatley Vodka to pack a strong coffee punch. Nov. 23 marks National Espresso Day.