An Espresso Martini is a delicious cocktail that combines the rich flavors of coffee with the boldness of vodka and the sweetness of coffee liqueur.  It is believed to have been created in the late 1980s by a London bartender named Dick Bradsell. The story goes that a famous model asked for a drink that would “wake me up, and then f**k me up,” and Bradsell came up with the Espresso Martini on the spot.

The original recipe for the Espresso Martini typically includes vodka, coffee liqueur (such as Kahlua), sugar syrup, and a shot of espresso. The ingredients are shaken together with ice and then strained into a martini glass. The frothy layer on top of the drink is created by the shaking process and gives the cocktail its distinctive look.

Over the years, the Espresso Martini has become a staple on cocktail menus around the world, beloved for its rich, complex flavors and energizing combination of coffee and alcohol. It has inspired many variations, some adding ingredients like flavored syrups, chocolate, or even spices to customize the drink to individual preferences.

Today, the Espresso Martini remains a popular choice for those looking for a sophisticated and caffeinated cocktail experience.

Here’s a simple recipe for making an Espresso Martini:

Ingredients:
– 1.5 oz vodka
– 1 oz coffee liqueur (such as Kahlúa)
– 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
– Ice
– Coffee beans or espresso beans for garnish (optional)

Instructions:
1. Brew a shot of espresso and allow it to cool to room temperature.

2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.

3. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso to the shaker.

4. Shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds to chill and combine the ingredients.

5. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass using a fine mesh strainer to catch any ice chips.

6. If desired, garnish with a few coffee beans or espresso beans on top of the cocktail.

7. Serve and enjoy your delicious Espresso Martini!

Note: You can adjust the proportions of vodka, coffee liqueur, and espresso to suit your taste preferences. Some people like to add a touch of simple syrup to sweeten the cocktail further. Feel free to experiment and make it your own!