Savouring an espresso martini is a timeless pleasure for many individuals during an evening out. The amalgamation of espresso, coffee liqueur, and vodka, topped with a frothy layer and adorned with coffee beans, is a cherished favourite. However, a recent encounter at the US chain Chili’s by one woman has sparked widespread interest on the internet.
Em took to X (formerly Twitter) to narrate her unexpected and amusing mishap with a beverage, and her post rapidly amassed an astounding 11 million views. The sight of her ‘dreadful’ espresso martini, overflowing with an excessive amount of coffee beans and devoid of the frothy top, left people in fits of laughter and unable to contain their amusement.
The comments section was inundated with jests and disbelief at the unconventional appearance of the drink, with some comparing it to Pepsi or Coke sprinkled with coffee beans. Em revealed that this unorthodox iteration of the cocktail was a collaboration between Chili’s and the celebrities of Vanderpump Rules, Scheana Shay and Katie Maloney. The unforeseen twist in the presentation of the classic cocktail did not go unnoticed, and it undeniably provided abundant amusement for numerous social media users.
The Espresso Martini boasts a captivating origin story, often attributed to the esteemed London bartender Dick Bradsell. It is purported that the concoction was originated in the 1980s when a model requested a drink that would “wake her up and then mess her up.” This prompted Bradsell to blend vodka, coffee liqueur, and fresh espresso, giving rise to the Espresso Martini, a libation that continues to be savoured by many today.
The unexpected reinterpretation of this cherished cocktail has left many in disbelief, and although it may not have met Em’s expectations, it assuredly provided lighthearted entertainment for countless others. Let us hope that this peculiar variation of the Espresso Martini remains on the transatlantic side if Chili’s ever decides to establish a presence on UK shores.