5 Top Spots on the Grand Strand to Grab an Espresso Martini
- September 29, 2023
- 12:05 pm
Espresso, coffee liqueur, vodka, simple syrup — for fans of the espresso martini (aka the vodka espresso), this is a recipe for delicious. And while it may not be especially complicated to make, it can be a tough beverage for drink mixers to master.
In a prime tourism destination like Myrtle Beach, though, bartenders get plenty of practice concocting the most popular cocktails. And as such, well-made espresso martinis can certainly be found … if you know where to look.
When you’re trying to track down a quality espresso martini during your next Grand Strand getaway, head for one of these five top spots (all located within relatively easy reach of Myrtle Beach’s Bay View on the Boardwalk resort) where the vodka espressos are truly top shelf:
Travinia Italian Kitchen — Found at The Market Common just short of 5 miles south of Bay View on the Boardwalk, Travinia Italian Kitchen & Wine Bar is known for its award-winning, made-from-scratch Italian classics like Chicken Marsala, Spaghetti Bolognese and Veal Scaloppine, as well as its impressive selection of wines. As an Italian eatery, though, it also offers a mean espresso — making it a great spot to head for the bar and order up an espresso martini.
The Chemist — Located on 9th Avenue North just a few blocks up North Ocean Boulevard from Bay View on the Boardwalk, The Chemist specializes in craft cocktails and modern cuisine. Highlight entrees on the establishment’s dinner menu include Sriracha Chicken, Shepherd’s Pie and Shrimp Scampi. But the Chemist’s main attractions are arguably found on the cocktail menu, as the bartenders have drink mixing down to a science — and even serve some of their unique concoctions in the kind of beakers usually found in the lab. And served with a bubble of smoke trapped on top, the espresso martini here is an especially fun drink option to order.
Strong Waters — Found on North Ocean Boulevard just over a mile north of Bay View on the Boardwalk, Strong Waters Craft Cocktails & Kitchen is another local establishment with a heavy focus on creating tasty and unique craft drinks. Some of its most popular dishes include Southern comfort foods with a twist — think main dishes like Shrimp & Grits smothered in a Cajun cream sauce, Crabby Mac featuring blue crab, lobster and smoked Gouda, and Beef Shank Osso Buco served with confit mustard greens. Its expert bartenders make a tasty espresso martini, too.
Carolina Seafood & Steak — Located on North Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach about 9 miles north of Bay View on the Boardwalk, Carolina Seafood & Steak offers a range of tasty dishes including seafood (try the signature Carolina Grouper), steaks (the prime rib is excellent), pastas and brick-oven pizzas. And to wet your whistle, the Absolut Espresso Martini is made with Absolut vanilla vodka, Kahlua and an espresso shot, then topped with raw sugar and chocolate shavings.
Martini — Located in North Myrtle Beach about a 30-minute drive from Bay View on the Boardwalk, this spot is a little harder to reach than the others on this list — but it’s well worth the trip. The food menu at Martini focuses on classics like seafood (don’t miss the Seafood Crusted Grouper), steaks (the Center Cut Filet will melt in your mouth) and Italian favorites like Chicken Parmesan and Angel Hair Pasta with Meatballs. And, as a favorite on the Desert Martinis menu, the Espresso Martini here features espresso vodka, Kahlua, cream and crushed, chocolate-covered espresso beans.
A Great Place to Stay for a Taste of the Town
Ready to track down all of your favorite drinks in town? Book your Myrtle Beach stay at Bay View on the Boardwalk today! With our prime location, comfortable oceanfront accommodations and long list of amazing amenities, you and your vacation crew are sure to have a memorable — and flavor-filled — experience on the Grand Strand.
