Farewell Espresso Martini, Say Hello to the Summer’s Hottest Drink

Savory Martinis Take New York City by Storm

New York City is known for its innovative culinary scene, and the latest trend in the cocktail world is no exception. Savory martinis are shaking up the traditional cocktail menu, with flavors like garlic bread and caprese salad taking center stage.

One of the standout drinks in this trend is the “Scottie’s Martini” at San Sabino in the West Village. Dubbed the “garlic bread martini,” this unique concoction is made using a process called fat-washing, where vodka is infused with garlic, sourdough bread scraps, dried oregano, and chilies sauteed in olive oil and butter. The result is a garlic bread-flavored vodka that is used to make the martini, garnished with olives stuffed with feta and chopped cherry peppers.

According to Bryan Schneider, the creative director for the Quality Branded group, which includes San Sabino, there is a growing interest in savory flavors among customers. “People are much more willing to take risks with their orders,” he said. The Scottie’s Martini has become one of the most popular cocktails on the menu, striking a chord with adventurous drinkers.

However, not everyone is on board with the savory martini trend. Angie Rito, chef and co-owner of San Sabino, revealed that her husband and business partner, Scott Tacinelli, is not a fan of martinis. Despite his aversion to the drink, they named it after him, adding a personal touch to the menu.

In Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill, Cafe Spaghetti offers a less pungent alternative with its Olive Oil Martini. Made with Askur gin fat-washed with extra virgin olive oil, this simple yet flavorful cocktail has become a hit with customers. The process of fat-washing, popularized with bourbon cocktails, has now made its way into the world of clear spirits, creating unique and complex flavors in cocktails.

Jac’s on Bond, a popular cocktail bar in NoHo, takes a different approach with its Caprese Martini, infusing Grey Goose with tomato, basil, and olive oil flavors. The result is a drink that tastes like a salad, according to head bartender Alberto Nieto. While not everyone may be a fan of this unconventional martini, it has garnered attention on social media and at the bar, becoming a must-try for adventurous drinkers.

The trend of savory martinis is a testament to the creativity and innovation of New York City’s cocktail scene. With flavors ranging from garlic bread to caprese salad, these unique drinks offer a new and exciting twist on the classic martini. Whether you’re a fan of traditional cocktails or looking to try something new, the savory martini trend is definitely worth a sip.