Some say it’s a fad. For others, the espresso martini is a brunch must-have. With the richness of full-bodied espresso, punchiness from vodka and a subtle sweetness of liqueur, the espresso martini is a well-balanced cocktail that mixes your morning caffeine boost into a boozy brunch cocktail.
With more brunch-focused places popping up across the First State, it’s no surprise that there are many spots to find delicious and unique takes on the espresso martini. Here are a few destinations to check out.
The Peach Blossom Eatery
With ties to Newark’s Little Goat Coffee, it’s no surprise that this brunch concept’s espresso martini is a hit. Peach Blossom brings it back to basics with vodka, a house-made coffee liqueur and Little Goat espresso. This no-frills take on the classic espresso martini allows the high quality of the ingredients to shine. It’s the perfect complement to a hearty and savory breakfast dish like the eatery’s “Get in My Belly” hash or breakfast burrito.
For something more unique and elevated, try the seasonal coconut dirty chai martini.
76 East Main Street, Newark
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Hummingbird to Mars
This popular Trolley Square speakeasy captures the hearts of Delawareans with creative and upscale takes on classic cocktails. With a diverse cocktail menu filled with inventive options, the humble espresso martini may not be the first libation that comes to mind. If you do order one, though, you’re in for a treat!
Back door of Catherine Rooney’s | 1616 Delaware Avenue, Wilmington
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Somewhere
Somewhere Rehoboth is known for delicious brunch, thoughtful cocktails and a gorgeous atmosphere. You can always order a classic espresso martini, but Somewhere also offers interesting seasonal flavors that might just become your new favorite cocktail. If a beachy outdoor brunch is your ideal weekend activity, Somewhere is always ready to deliver.
52 Baltimore Avenue, Rehoboth Beach
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Taverna Rustic Italian
For perfectly balanced espresso martinis, this local Italian spot is a great option. Enjoy this cocktail alongside one of the menu’s decadent dessert options after a hearty meal.
121 East Main Street, Newark
3549 Silverside Road, Wilmington
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Home Grown Café
The appropriately named Up All Night cocktail is a brunch favorite at this Main Street hotspot. The use of vanilla vodka adds an extra element of sweetness to balance out the bitterness of espresso. This smooth and sweet take on an espresso martini is a favorite among college students and locals alike.
126 East Main Street, Newark
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Blume
This Wilmington brunch hotspot is all about the aesthetics. Cocktail presentation is creative and elevated, and the espresso martini is no exception. With a light dusting of delicate espresso powder and three perfectly placed espresso beans as a garnish, this cocktail is always Instagram-ready.
4034 North Market Street, Wilmington
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Eggspectation
With creative and colorful brunch cocktails being the restaurant’s strength, it’s understandable if you opt for something with more frills. But if you’re in the mood for brunch classics with espresso martinis to match, Eggspectation will always deliver a satisfying sip.
507 Stanton Christiana Road, Newark
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The Starboard Raw
Beach-goers in Delaware rave about this iconic espresso martini. What makes the espresso martinis so delicious? As famously stated on the menu, “It’s a secret.” For a unique take, try the peanut butter espresso martini (“Definitely a secret.”) If you’re gearing up for a day of beach drinking and dining, this is the perfect starting point.
2000 Coastal Highway, Dewey Beach
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The Mercury Café and Teahouse
Like Peach Blossom, this New Castle café blends local Little Goat espresso with punchy vanilla vodka and coffee liqueur for a deliciously smooth espresso martini that is perfectly “Delaware.”
206 Delaware Street, Historic New Castle
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Related: This Is Your Ultimate Guide to Brunch Spots in Delaware