Shaken, not Stirred: The Best Martinis in Philadelphia
While anyone can pour gin over vermouth, the modern martini has evolved into a statement cocktail best left expressed by a master mixologist.
Wildly imaginative and infused with delicate fruits and spices from across the globe, the perfect martini must be, well, perfection. Here’s where to find sip worthy concoctions in the City of Brotherly Love.
Le Virtù
Fine Italian fare, including some of the most outstanding pasta dishes in Philadelphia. Order the self-titled Le Virtù martini or go sweet and sour with an Old World-inspired limoncello martini.
Be sure to stick around to order something off the mouth-watering dessert menu.
1927 E. Passyunk Ave.
215.271.5626
Continental Martini Bar
A classic martini haunt for an evening that’s casual yet refined, Continental is a great choice for those who aren’t afraid to break martini protocol with an extensive of creative and unique martini cocktails.
Try the 18th & Sansom, made with Dewar’s, honey, lemon and rosewater, or a more contemporary choice, the Violet Femmes.
138 Market St.
215.923.6069
Continental Midtown
An offshoot of the original, stop by for their famous chocolate martini in a chic rooftop lounge.
The Midtown draws an attractive crowd while still maintaining an air of relaxation and laughter.
1801 Chestnut St.
215.567.1800
Rouge
For when you fancy a delightful meal of fresh seafood to wash down your cocktails.
Order their classic pear martini; although it’s no longer on the menu, the bar staff will gladly mix one up for you. For martini drinkers with a penchant for fruity fun, try a refreshing lemonade martini outdoors on the patio.
205 S. 18th St.
215.732.6622
Valanni
Swanky and subdued with a distinct lounge-like ambiance, Valanni is sensual, hip and inviting. Stop by for an evening drink in Center City and stay for fusion tapas. Tanqueray martinis for two, please.
1229 Spruce Street
215.790.9494
R2L
Savor your Philadelphia sunset with sweeping skyline views from the 37th floor. R2L’s aptly named Sunset Martini floats a blue-cheese stuffed olive atop your choice of Stoli or Tanqueray.
50 S. 16th St.
215.564.5337
Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co.
Martini purists who simply refuse to “get with the times” feel right at home in this Center City speakeasy with a singular martini on the menu.
Gin, dry vermouth and a lemon twist. Go underground and relive Philadelphia’s Prohibition past.
112 S. 18th St.
267.467.3277
Southwark
Classic, well-executed drinks and one of the most extensive collections of gin in the United States.
701 S. 4th St.
267.930.8538