Where to Drink the Best Martini in New York City

Although the origins of the classic Martini are widely debated, one thing’s for sure — few places do it better than New York City. From old-school steakhouses to swanky cocktail bars, the Big Apple is home to one of the world’s most vibrant mixology scenes, and a seemingly endless array of well-executed variations can be found within its limits. 

We asked a handful of top drinks experts to reveal their favorite places to enjoy a classic expression of the drink in New York City, from seamless preparation and service to ambiance, chill factor, and beyond. 

Whether you prefer your Martini icy and bracing or soft and aromatic, these bars prove that New York City still sets the global standard.

Gallagher’s Steakhouse: for the perfect chill

“I love a classic, perfectly chilled Martini, and Gallagher’s Steakhouse nails it every time. The fact that it’s a generous pour in a large martini glass is a huge plus, and they get the consistency just right by batching it. It’s the perfect, dependable martini that I’m always happy to go back for every time.” —Aaron Kim, head bartender of 53 and BA53MENT

Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle: for the ‘wow’ factor

“Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle remains, for me, the Martini benchmark. Hotel bars have a way of insisting upon a V-shaped glass of chilled gin and vermouth, and nowhere proves the point better than Bemelmans, at least on this side of the Atlantic. A word to the wise, though: the evening queue these days can be a bit much, so I slip in earlier, post-galleries and shopping, pre-evening, when the banquettes are still welcoming but the crowds haven’t quite yet descended upon the bar. Also, daytime Martinis are a forgotten and undersung treat. Sinking into a corner seat at Bemelmans with a Martini in hand is one of New York’s greatest uncomplicated luxuries.” —Cody Pruitt, owner of Libertine and Chateau Royale

The Grill: for Rat Pack swagger

“For me, two very stunning but very different spaces immediately come to mind: Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle, with its swanky, piano-fueled beat and dim-lit, timeless vibe; and The Grill, one of the most grand, luxurious dining rooms in the city that’ll make you feel like a million bucks, with a menu boasting the most diverse range of classic Martinis.” —Brian Evans, director of bars at Hotel Chelsea

“Few places in Manhattan carry the kind of old-school, mid-century swagger that The Grill does. The Martini here is pure Rat Pack perfection: icy cold, bone-dry, and served with just enough ceremony to make you feel like you’re closing a deal in the Mad Men era. It’s a power Martini in a power room.” —Adam Raksin, director of food and beverage operations at The Knickerbocker

Maison Premiere: for tableside service

“Maison Premiere’s King Cole Martini served tableside. The drink’s texture and presentation are elegant like no other, and are exactly what you would expect from the archetypal Martini.” —Robert Lam-Burns, bar manager at LenLen

Long Island Bar: for the nostalgic time traveler

“Long Island Bar (in Brooklyn), is the perfect classic cocktail bar run by Toby Cecchini, one of the most knowledgeable and influential bartenders of the modern cocktail era. You can be damn sure he knows how to make a good Martini. This bar has gone to great lengths to restore the history of its decor, making you feel like you are also in a Martini time machine.” —Simon Ford, founder of Fords Gin

“Long Island Bar would be my first choice for a classic Martini. The space feels timeless in a beautiful part of Brooklyn, and the team’s proficiency with classics means the Martini is always spot-on. Having a perfectly crafted Martini there, is an ideal way to spend part of any evening.” —Tristan Brunel, head of bar at The Ned NoMad

Lobby Bar at Hotel Chelsea: for freezer Martinis with a bohemian vibe

“Lobby Bar at Hotel Chelsea is number one on my list. The ambiance cannot be beaten, and it feels like you have been transported to the past. I imagine I am sharing a conversation and silky-smooth freezer Martini with some of the great artists of our time.” —Pia Bazzani, food and beverage director at The Maker

Martiny’s: for date night

“Martiny’s in Gramercy is the spot for a classic Martini. As its namesake suggests, they do it to perfection, and [that’s] why they’ve been recognized as a 50 Best Bar for years. They’re all business (just like most Martinis), so make sure you come correct. But if you’re looking to impress a client, or a date, you can’t do much better than Martiny’s.” —Rob Hoffman, beverage director at Lucky Charlie

Hawksmoor: for the most elegant accessory

“The bar at Hawksmoor is really nostalgic for me. The Hawksmoor Martini is so unbelievably, bracingly cold and elegant, it’s the perfect accessory to that little piece of my personal nostalgia.” —Christopher Moore, head bartender at Crane Club

Temple Bar: for old-world NYC, with caviar bumps

“My favorite bar for a classic Martini is Temple Bar. When I moved to NYC in the late ‘90s, Temple Bar was one of the only bars in the city taking cocktails seriously.  When it reopened with Sam Casuga as the head bartender, I was so excited to have a perfect Martini with a caviar bump, of course! I have such fond memories of the bar, and the room just feels like old New York for me.” —Julie Reiner, co-owner of Milady’s and Clover Club