Feeling fancy? Order a martini with your meal. Whether you prefer seasonal flavors or classic concoctions, Northern Virginia has something for everyone. Here are six we’re loving right now.
Blue Rock’s Blue Cheese Martini
It’s simple but oh-so-perfect, composed of vodka, vermouth, and olive brine, stirred and garnished with a blue cheese olive. 12567 Lee Hwy., Washington
Bombay Velvet’s Lychee and Rose Petal Martini
This martini showcases two of the most popular flavors in Indian cuisine, lychee and rose. The beverage merges vodka with lychee liqueur, rose liqueur, and a splash of vermouth. A skewered lychee and sprinkling of dried rose petals tie the flavors together and serve as elegant, charming garnishes. 12100 Sunset Hills Rd., Reston
Carbonara’s Ferrero Rocher Martini
Although this martini is a dessert all on its own, no one will judge you if you pair it with one of Carbonara’s decadent desserts. Made with a heavenly blend of vodka, hazelnut, espresso, Nutella, and chocolate bitters, this chocolate candy-reminiscent martini is the best iteration of an espresso martini in town. Carbonara also offers an espresso martini flight which includes the Ferrero Rocher martini, as well as a pistachio espresso martini and a brûléed tiramisu espresso martini. 3865 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
The Majestic’s Pumpkin Spice Espresso Martini
Made with in-house coffee-infused Jameson Irish Whiskey, espresso, Frangelico, Kahlua, and Aztec chocolate bitters, this creamy martini comes garnished with coffee beans and pumpkin seeds for a seasonal touch. 911 King St., Alexandria
Parc de Ville’s French Martini
If you prefer sweeter cocktails, try the French martini at Parc de Ville. It combines vodka, crème de cassis (which is a blackcurrant liqueur), and pineapple juice. The plum-colored beverage is tropical and fruity and is adorned with a lemon twist for a bright note. 8196 Glass Alley, Ste. 110, Fairfax
Virtue Feed & Grain’s Virtue Martini
This martini is almost too pretty drink. It includes Ketel One vodka, elderflower liqueur, and strawberry coulis. The coulis gives the drink its gorgeous pink hue, the elderflower liqueur lends a floral note, and a top-off of sparkling wine adds a lovely effervescence. A fresh basil leaf as the garnish offers the perfect color contrast to the pink drink. 106 S. Union St., Alexandria
Feature image of pumpkin spice espresso martini at The Majestic courtesy Alexandria Restaurant Group
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