The martini is a staple cocktail that oozes class just by sitting in its iconic long-stemmed conical glass. But like any good drink, it takes many forms to suit the palates that choose to order it. While some crave the classic dirty martini—a harmonious blend of gin and vermouth with a splash of olive juice—others favor the more intricate “Vodka Appletinis” of the ‘tini realm. But I think we can all agree to raise a glass to this diverse libation come National Martini Day on June 19. Check out a few Long Island restaurants that have bartenders pouring out the very best.
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Revel Restaurant and Bar, Garden City
This hotspot in Garden City boasts an extensive cocktail menu—with an entire section dedicated to martinis. Whether you’re looking for the classic dirty martini (its Dirty Gibby) or a tropical twist (like the Kiwi Crush martini with Stoli Vodka, kiwi, simple syrup and watermelon radish), the menu has a ‘tini for any palate. But a true hit is the Lavish Lavender, with Nolet’s Gin, blue lavender syrup, lemon and lavender flower for a bev that’s sure to impress. Phone: 516-246-9111 | Address: 835 Franklin Avenue Click to go
Element Seafood, Great Neck
Element’s extensive selection of seafood may be what brings foodies to this establishment in Great Neck, but the carefully crafted bar menu is what makes many stay. The “Best Martini” truly lives up to its name, with dry vermouth and Nolet’s Dry Gin stirred with kosher salted ice cubes and orange bitters—making for a well-balanced and interesting twist on the classic cocktail. Phone: 516-829-9888 | Address: 20 S Station Plaza Click to go
Old Fields, Various Locations
Who can resist a classic dirty martini? The dry gin and vermouth with plenty of olive juice mixed in becomes more appetizing by the minute. But instead of the layman’s olive balanced on top by way of a toothpick, the garnish is taken up a notch with Old Fields’ “Filthy” Dirty Martini. It’s all the simplicity of the classic topped with ridiculously delicious bleu cheese olives. Click to go
Spiro’s Lounge, Rocky Point
Spiro’s is a martini lover’s paradise. And with over 20 specialties on the menu, choosing can be tough. Besides the classic, Spiro’s serves the likes of the “Pomtini,” with pama, pearl pomegranate and Grand Marnier and the “Saketini,” with Skyy Ginger and Rock Sake Cloud. Phone: 631-744-4100 | Address: 4 Patchogue Drive Click to go
Post Office Café, Babylon
This Happy Hour haven situated in an old post office serves up an impressive martini. A crowd favorite among locals is the Beach Bum Martini—served with Finlandia Mango Vodka, Malibu, grenadine, pineapple juice, pomegranate juice and raspberry sugar. And the best part? Hit up Happy Hours Monday through Friday from 4pm to 6pm for these staple cocktails served at a great price—only six bucks. Phone: 631-669-9224 | Address: 130 Montauk Highway Click to go