Where to find the best espresso martinis in Belfast

One of the fresher faces in the Belfast bar scene, Angel & Two Bibles is a hip spot to swing by to devour devilish cocktails. This inconspicuous bar is far from the nearby loud and over the top venues surrounding. Angel & Two Bibles keeps its location quiet and no easy feat to find, giving visitors the feeling of excitement, reminiscent of a 1920s speakeasy, upon visiting. Especially when entering through its simple black doors, guests are instantly met with eclectic designs and a bold interior, which really does create an element of escapism when juxtaposed with the simple alleyway outside. Angel & Two Bibles is focused on cocktails with two whimsically named menus: The Old Testament and The New Testament – one dedicated to beloved classics and the other featuring the bar’s own unique creations. As expected, this cocktail lounge goes above and beyond with its espresso martini, combining high-quality vodka with cold brew coffee and Kahlua, topping it off with caramel syrup for a delightful sweet note, making this iconic drink even more indulgent.

A quirky yet classy bar in the centre of Belfast, Muriel’s is a wonderful spot to visit whether you’re exploring the historic and iconic streets of the Cathedral Quarter or just off a tiring shopping spree in the shopping centre nearby. A local favourite for years, Muriel’s has become iconic, not only for its extensive drinks menu but also its quirky interior and lively atmosphere; it’s become synonymous with its tongue and cheek underwear display that lines the venue. Although specialising in gin, Muriel’s has a wonderful cocktail menu with a classic espresso martini, which is one of the most highly regarded in the city.

Belfast’s one and only seductive, bohemian bar, restaurant and supper club, AMPM offers one of the most comprehensive cocktail menus the city has to offer. AMPM, situated on Arthur Street, has created a wonderful 88-page cocktail menu that pays “homage to drinks created by legendary mixologists and bartenders that have served and delighted guests in the great bars of the world”. With a huge variety of cocktails, wines, beers and spirits as well as non-alcoholic/low alcohol options, AMPM has become a favourite for locals. Offering its classic take on the espresso martini, AMPM stays true to the original recipe of this beloved cocktail, outlining its history in the menu. If you’re visiting for an espresso martini or one of the venue’s other concoctions, you are sure to enjoy the eclectic interior, live entertainment and expertly recommended food offering, making AMPM the ideal spot for any occasion.

Hidden in plain sight, in the centre of Belfast on Fountain Lane, Santeria is an intimate venue that is open for food, coffee, cocktails and everything in between. Described as a hidden gem, focused on classic and contemporary cocktails, Santeria is a welcoming and laid back venue that comes alive at night with live DJ sets, live music and delicious small plates. In keeping with its definition as an informal and warm bar, Santeria has created a unique menu of small plates to enjoy alongside one of its signature cocktails, Thursday through Sunday. Although this city-centre spot has so much on offer, from its food to its atmosphere, Santeria’s drinks menu is definitely a stand out with its espresso martini being an obvious favourite. Not only does Santeria offer an expertly curated classic espresso martini, but it also offers its own unique variation to tempt visitors. The in-house martini named, ORúN (translated to heaven) combines all the most loved elements of the classic cocktail but, adding a unique orange twist making this variation all the more tempting.