12 Bars in Dallas to Toast National Espresso Martini Day

Espresso martinis are so cool there's a day to celebrate them: March 15. This simple coffee and vodka-based drink has been given a glow-up over the past couple of years as many bars (and countries) have their own interpretations. So, here's a list of great espresso martinis around Dallas in many wonderful variations.

Now get out there, sip up and make us proud.

Ayahuasca Cantina

334 Jefferson Blvd.

We crush hard on this speakeasy behind Xaman Cafe along Jefferson Boulevard. It has its own mood board. The cocktail menu "embodies the evolution of ancestral elixirs into modern mixology," so, of course, there's is not just an espresso martini. Here, you'll order an Independencia made with Abasolo Mexican whiskey, which is infused with Veracruz coffee and a touch of herbal bitters of mole and chocolate.

Atlas

408 N. Bishop Ave.

A few years ago, Dan Bui, co-owner of Atlas, told us the espresso martini was the most popular drink at this globally inspired bar in the Bishop Arts District. They use locally roasted espresso from Kiestwood and Bui suggests swapping out tequila for vodka, adding some depth with the agave.

Elephant East

2823 McKinnon St.

Elephant East is a great stop before heading to the American Airlines Center. But, honestly, we'd post up at the bar any time for one of their espresso martinis ($17). They order a specific type of Vietnamese espresso powder that provides a more nuanced flavor with hints of chicory. When we asked about it on a visit, the bartender was so proud that he pulled a bottle out of the fridge to show us how they make each batch.

Cosmo’s

1212 Skillman St.

This amazing little bar in East Dallas with a stellar VHS collection offers a mighty menu of both fare and cocktails. Never visit East Dallas without trying their espresso martini made with house-brewed Vietnamese coffee, which offers a more intense and complex coffee flavor. Van Gogh Espresso vodka and Kahlua are also tossed in for a velvety sip. They only make one batch of coffee daily, so head out early.

Hugo’s

334 W. Davis St.

Hugo’s is a cozy and intimate seafood spot in the Bishop Arts District from two Hugos (one is the chef, the other the bartender). The espresso martini here is called the Ron Kon Café ($16) and is made of Licor 43, Barrilito Rum, Mr Black, a Guinness geduction and a salted plantain puree. Nooooo, you shut up! They're also open for lunch now if you need an early start (you've earned it).

José

4931 W. Lovers Lane

José on Lovers Lane isn't just a fantastic spot to sip a margarita; the espresso martini is just as refreshing. Appleton aged rum, cinnamon syrup and a shot of espresso are blended with a bit of whole milk with a sugary garnish around the rim. Or, for a citrus touch, go for the Carajillo, made with Licor 43. Either is $14.

Leela's Wine Bar

1914 Greenville Ave.

This neighborhood bar is known for its kitschy holiday decor, but don't sleep on the cocktails (or thin-crust pizza). Leela's espresso martini ($14) starts with espresso-infused Townes Vodka (a local brand), Mr Black coffee liquor, Frangelico, cream, and a sprinkle of torched cinnamon. Simple and perfect in an adorable bar.

La Reunion

229 N. Bishop Ave.

When the vibe is right, which it mostly is here, everything tastes amazing at La Reunion in the Bishop Arts District. Equal parts cafe and bar, La Reunion has fresh espresso at the ready for purists, although that comes with a $3 upcharge. From the menu, it's made with vodka, vanilla, house iced coffee and Kahlua. Imbibe at one of the sidewalk tables and if you squint, you'll forget you're in a city often choked by gridlock. There's also a Carajillo option, a pleasant digestif.

La Vuida Negra

2513 N. Fitzugh Ave.

“Martini espresso” in Spanish is carajillo. Don’t put that in Google Translate; just trust us. At this speakeasy in East Dallas, next to El Come Taco (a Top 100 restaurant), they use French pressed coffee, Nixta Licor de Elote, Mr Black and Licor 43. Everything you sip or eat at this bar is an adventure, even paying the tab: be sure to open the book, read a little and leave your own note. Don't blush.

Parliament

2418 Allen St.

Parliament, the classic craft cocktail den in Uptown, uses Borghetti coffee liqueur with a more intense coffee flavor for its Espresso Self ($16), along with vodka, espresso cold brew and a housemade vanilla tincture. Classic and perfect.

Meyboom Brasserie

2100 Greenville Ave.

Meyboom is a Belgian-influenced pub in the Lower Greenville neighborhood noted for taps full of European beers. Ask the bartender to shake up an espresso martini made of Sobieski vodka, Kamora coffee liqueur, simple syrup, egg and Window Seat espresso. It was the Observer's Best Espresso Martini in 2023 for good reason.

Valle

509 N. Bishop Ave.

This moody Mexico City-inspired bar in the Bishop Arts District opened late in 2024. When we visited, we went straight for the carajillo de olla made with Herradura Reposado, Liquor 43, Santito, cafe de olla syrup (warm and spicy with a touch of citrus) along with Cafetio Co. cold brew.