By Juliet Levin By Juliet Levin | July 22, 2022 | Food & Drink, Food & Drink,
Here is our guide to the best martinis in Aspen, whether you prefer them shaken or stirred.
Clark’s Oyster Bar
Head over to happy hour at Clark’s Oyster Bar for half-off on oysters, burgers, martinis and more. Play it cool with a classic dirty or dry, energize with the Aspen Espresso Martini or try one of Clark’s many signature mixtures. Made with Templeton 4yr Rye, Cocchi Torino and Angostura bitters, Clark’s Rye Manhattan exudes an old-school aura which is perfect for the cocktail connoisseur. Other martinis on the menu include the Stirred Vesper, Aviation or Cap Corse Reviver, which offer a gin-base and lemon twist for a sweet and sour sip. 517 E. Hyman Ave., 970.710.2546, clarksaspen.com
Bad Harriet
In the mood for a classic cocktail? Toast to tradition with Bad Harriet’s basic-ally amazing martini. Enjoy the eclectic ambience of the Hotel Jerome speakeasy and relish in the carefully-crafted cocktail menu complete with unique flavors. Inspired by powerful women throughout history and named after Jerome’s wife, Bad Harriet is both a tasty and timeless experience. Order your martini with Beluga Vodka or Tangueray x Gin and choose from an array of traditional accouterments for a twist. 330 E. Main St., 970.429.7665, aubergeresorts.com
Betula
Calling all rum-loving regulars to Betula for a smooth yet savory burst of energy. Made with tonka bean cardamom, infused sailor jerry rum, coffee liquor, fresh espresso, togarashi cacao and hellfire bitters, order the Betula Rhumtini for a refreshing fix and martini twist. Open for bites, booze and 360 views, Betula’s French Pan-American bar and restaurant offers the ideal setting to embrace Aspen’s high-life. Whether you’re dining at a table for dinner, stopping by the bar-lounge for a quick sip or relaxing on the rooftop, the options are endless at Betula. From bubbles to beer and from Mezcal to martinis, the bars at Betula are a contemporary cocktail wonderland. 525 E. Cooper Ave. #201, 970.922.8103, betulaaspen.com
Hooch
Like your living room but more fun, Hooch Craft Cocktail Bar is the dream destination to get your drink on. Complete with classic cocktails and modern takes on traditional mixtures, the menu at Hooch changes with every season, making room for new creations, fun flavors and even more out-of-the-box ideas. Order a classic martini or choose from the Reserve Manhattan List of creative Vermouth cocktails — order “It’s a Celebration Bitches” for a Vermouth sour, “Mizunara Manhattan” for a Vermouth and sake special, or savor the “Happy Pappy” for a combo of Pappy 10yr and Vermouth Di Torino Pio Cesare. 301 E. Hopkins Ave., 970.710.7275, hooch.avalancheaspen.com
Photography by: Photo courtesy Ambitious Creative/Unsplash