Sydney Twilight Espresso Martini, Tom Savano

We all know the story. In the 1980s, Dick Bradsell was asked by a young supermodel, at Fred’s Club in Soho, to make her something that would: “Wake her up, then f*** her up.” A recently installed coffee machine was taking up half the bar and, at the time, vodka was the tipple of choice – so the Vodka Espresso was born.

These days the Espresso Martini is synonymous with pre-dinner drinks, or having a vibrant catch up with friends. The bitterness of the coffee sparks the appetite, while the creaminess of vanilla and dark chocolate luxuriate the senses. And it has a surprising kick!

Served ice cold, rich and foamy, there isn’t a better way to start an evening. Picture yourself on a rooftop bar in Sydney, dressed to the nines and waiting for dinner reservations. The coffee and vodka combination leave with you a dangerously exciting buzz for the night to come.