Boston Bar Crowned Best Espresso Martini in Massachusetts

Grill 23 takes home the top honor for second year in a row.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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According to Time Out Boston, the best espresso martini in Massachusetts can be found at Grill 23 in Boston. The bar's bartender, Ryan McHugh, has won the title two years in a row, thanks to his use of high-quality espresso, vanilla-infused vodka, Kahlua, and a splash of Baileys, all shaken vigorously to create the perfect creamy, flavorful cocktail.

Why it matters

Espresso martinis have become increasingly popular nationwide, and Massachusetts is no exception. With hundreds of bars and restaurants across the state, finding the absolute best version of this trendy cocktail is a point of pride and distinction.

The details

Grill 23, located at 161 Berkley Street in Boston, is already well-known for its classic martinis served in signature icy, chilled glasses. But it's the bar's espresso martini, crafted by bartender Ryan McHugh, that has been crowned the best in the state two years running by Time Out Boston. McHugh's secret is using high-quality espresso, vanilla-infused vodka, Kahlua, and a splash of Baileys, all shaken vigorously to create a creamy, flavorful cocktail.

  • In 2025, the espresso martini has become a hugely popular cocktail nationwide.
  • Grill 23 has won the title of best espresso martini in Massachusetts for the second year in a row.

The players

Grill 23

A Boston restaurant well-known for its classic martinis served in signature icy, chilled glasses.

Ryan McHugh

The bartender at Grill 23 who has won the title of best espresso martini in Massachusetts two years in a row.

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What they’re saying

“The key is good espresso.”

— Ryan McHugh, Bartender, Grill 23 (Time Out Boston)

The takeaway

With hundreds of bars and restaurants across Massachusetts, finding the absolute best espresso martini is a point of pride. Grill 23's bartender, Ryan McHugh, has perfected the recipe, using high-quality ingredients and expert technique to create the state's top espresso martini for the second year in a row.