Shaken or stirred, these nine Boston favorites mix up martinis with some epic twists. 
The Hourly Oyster House's Affogato Martini
Alden & Harlow
Martini Spritz
Summer’s not over yet at Alden & Harlow—ask for the Martini Spritz, a lighter glass featuring Aria gin and blackberry infused Dolin vermouth. The honeyed cocktail pairs perfectly with their salty, sweet and spicy offerings on the Stone Fruit Plate. With sips and snacks, this charming Cambridge classic is the perfect spot to celebrate the dog days of July. 40 Brattle St, Cambridge, 617.864.2100, aldenharlow.com
Aquitaine
Watermelon Martini
Take advantage of watermelon season with Aquitaine's Martini Pastèque. With fresh cut watermelon, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Combier, fresh lemon juice and simple syrup, the sweet sip is sure to keep you refreshed all summer long. 569 Tremont St., 617.424.8577, aquitaineboston.com
Abe and Louie’s
Zen Martini
This old school Boylston Street steakhouse is known for its prime cuts and impressive seafood towers, but also happens to be the ultimate spot for a swanky barside cocktail. Dark oak beams, white table linens and candlelight promise guests an evening of elevated dining. Leaning into Abe and Louie’s famous elegance with the Zen Martini—a stylish twist on the beloved classic featuring Tito’s vodka, cucumber, lime and sparkly processo. The refreshing pour certainly calls for a second round. 93 Boylston St., 617.536.6300, abeandlouies.com
Black Lamb
Dirty Martini (a little amped up)
This whimsical, sheep-adorned South End eatery knows that all martinis are not created equal. The Dirty Martini (a little amped up) offers a richness not often found with a splash of olive oil and kick of black pepper infused vodka. And of course, no true dirty martini is complete without a healthy dose of salty olive brine. For the ultimate snack pair, order the marinated castelvetrano olives complete with a preserved lemon twist. 571 Tremont St., 617.982.6330, blacklambsouthend.com
Bistro Du Midi
Classic Dirty Martini
Elegant Parisian style embraces simplicity. After sipping on Bistro Du Midi’s Classic Dirty Martini, we know why. The martini is shaken so hard that you may even find a slight freeze glazing your olives—a tell tale sign of an expert bartender. And don’t drink on an empty stomach. Order the truffle parmesan frites for ultimate indulgence. 272 Boylston St., 617.279.8000, bistrodumidi.com
75 Chestnut
Apricot French Martini
Step inside the cozy Beacon Hill brick-lined eatery and toast the final days of summer with a fruity twist. The addition of Chambord, a French raspberry liqueur, sets this sophisticated mix apart. While not destined for those craving a salty olive brine, the Apricot French Martini speaks to a sweeter palette, featuring black infusions of apricot vodka and pineapple juice. 75 Chestnut St., 617.227.2175, 75chestnut.com
The Hourly Oyster House
Affogato Martini
Move over espresso martini—the affogato martini may just be the drink of the summer. While the former has certainly stolen our heart, we can’t help but admit the addition of vanilla soft serve is a game changer in the July heat. Borghetti coffee liqueur, espresso and Grey Goose make this cool cocktail a boozy treat. 15 Dunster St., Cambridge, 617.765.2342, thehourlycambridge.com
Parla
Parlatini
Easily recognized by an enchanting speakeasy interior, Parla is known across the North End for their over-the-top cocktail creations. But sometimes, simple is best, and their ‘Parlatini’ does not mess around. Allowing flavors to shine, Parla mixes their house-made lemongrass gin and dry vermouth with a simple lemon oil for an understated yet satisfying glass. For a more opulent finish, try the Espresso Martini (some even say it’s the best in Boston). 230 Hanover St., 617.367.2824, parlaboston.com
Saltie Girl
Saltie
This intimate eatery constantly queues lines that loop down Dartmouth Street, but the Back Bay favorite is worth the wait. If you’re lucky enough to get seated, prepare for mouth watering seafood towers and fresh oyster trays with a glass of their ‘Saltie’ on the side. Topped with salty gordal olives and pickled onions, this vodka martini’s showstopper comes in the form of caviar. Need we say more? 279 Dartmouth St., 617.267.0691, saltiegirl.com
Photography by: Josh Jamison; Courtesy of AquitaineTavistock Restaurant Collection; Mike Cotrone
