Three popular Venice restaurants offer outstanding cocktails that are sure to amaze.
When it comes to the ultimate espresso martini, Made in Italy on Venice Ave. offers a sophisticated, yet comforting take. This crowd favorite features fresh-brewed espresso, 360 Vodka and 360 Madagascar Vanilla Flavored Vodka, Borghetti espresso liqueur, a splash of simple syrup, and a topping of three coffee beans.
“People constantly ask for the recipe, which we don’t keep a secret; they’re very simple ingredients,” said manager Sergio Martinez, “but we make sure that we use the best quality ingredients and execute it properly every time.” The refinement of the drink sets it apart, allowing the coffee and vodka to mingle with ease. Martinez noted that the shaken fresh espresso creates a light foam on the top of the drink, contributing to an overall subtle sweetness without an overwhelming number of additives. “This is as pure as it can be,” he said.
“It’s the kind of drink you want to wind down to, it’s perfect for people who want to skip dessert,” he explained. Whether one is capping off a special occasion or simply a satisfying, authentic Italian meal, Made in Italy’s espresso martini delivers on flavor.
Wellen Park’s Banyan House features a variety of refreshing, tropical cocktails; As for the most eye-catching drink, however, the Banyan Cosmo is a clear winner. Made with Banyan Reserve Vodka, Cointreau, lime and cranberry juice—and topped with an impressive raspberry-flavored gelatin smoke bubble created with a Flavor Blaster—it can’t help but draw attention to itself. General manager Stacy Jones described the drink as “Instagram worthy.” “It's a showstopper, because if anybody has one in the dining room, everybody looks around to see what's going on,” he said.
Jones noted that the drink appeals to several senses: “visually, it’s pleasing because it’s a Cosmo, but it has that cool smoke bubble, so everyone watches it … and you get the touch because you can touch the bubble. Then, when you release it, it actually gives you an aroma, too.” Jones described the drink’s flavor as cool, refreshing, citrusy, and not overly sweet.
The Banyan Cosmo’s light, fresh flavors pair well with anything on the menu making it a fitting choice for any occasion. “Whether it's a celebration or you're looking for something fun, it really checks all the boxes,” said Jones.
Banyan Cosmo Ingredients:
- Banyan Reserve Vodka
- Cointreau
- A splash of fresh lime juice
- A splash of cranberry juice
- Raspberry bubble topping
The Water Lily Martini at Venice Ave’s Longet was originally crafted by mixologist Caroline Follos for the Venice Art Center’s 2026 Artini event where the cocktail won Best Tasting Martini. In alignment with Longet’s French fare, Follos chose Claude Monet’s classic masterpiece Water Lilies as her artistic inspiration. She described the drink as both light and complex.
“There’s a lot of components to this drink,” said Follos, “there are many different flavors, but it’s super well balanced.” The airy martini’s floral and citrus notes emanate from the blend of parfait amour, house-made orange tincture, fresh lemon juice, lavender simple syrup, egg whites, and vodka.
Follos suggested pairing the Water Lily Martini with light appetizers on a girls’ night out, as the drink’s bright aesthetics and frothy texture often catch the attention of the entire party—and soon everyone wants a taste. “A whole table will order them,” said Follos. “I think this one has such a unique color that whenever somebody sees it, they are always interested,” she explained.
“I'd say, if you like vodka, and you like fresh, bright, complex drinks … this is the perfect drink for you to try; It's pretty unique, I've never seen anything like it,” said Follos.
Water Lilly Martini Ingredients:
- Parfait amour
- Orange tincture
- Fresh lemon juice
- A splash of lavender simple syrup
- Egg whites
- Ketel One Vodka