A new members’ bar, Martinez, has opened on Soho’s Greek Street, specialising in forgotten vintage cocktails and much-loved classics.
Design
Martinez is squirrelled behind a slender doorway next to L’Escargot on the ever-busy Greek Street. Steep steps lead up to an airy, loft-style space with sleek, bottle-green Metro tiled pillars breaking up the distressed plaster and white brick walls. To one side of the room sits a bar, embossed with venue’s logo and flanked by mid-century-esque, scallop back high chairs. A DJ booth, tall tables, and raised banquettes sit just beyond. Two fireplaces provide focal points on the more lounge-like side, whilst large windows with slatted blinds and prismatic glass lights cast an ambient glow over the space. Comfortable seating is arranged in intimate groupings with laidback luxury meeting Art Deco accents present throughout the decor.
What’s on the Menu?
The bar team is headed by Maurice Marshall, (Sketch, Cuckoo Club, and Maddox Club), with Max Greco of Sydney’s Eau de Vie and Vasco, joining the fold as Head Bartender. The venue’s drinks offering is overseen by Dré Masso, coupled with the consultancy of The Cocktail Lovers, Gary Sharpen and Sandrae Lawrence.
The bar’s eponymous cocktail – hailed as the precursor to the Martini – can be found on the menu in both its original form and in two further evolutions. In addition to the Martinez, other signature stars of the menu include the Toreador (Ocho Blanco Tequila, peach, lime, bitters; £14) and two of our favourite classics, the strong and juicy Fish House Punch (£16), and ridiculously quaffable Hotel Nacional (£15).
Bar snacks and small plates from Michelin-starred Chef Hervé Deville include Lobster Thermidor Petit Choux, Truffle Croque, and Serrano Bruschetta on homemade Foccacia.
Membership
Priced at £300 for a year, membership is promised to be selective yet inclusive, aiming to unite all a love of cocktails, good company, fabulous music, and great stories. Membership includes:
- One-one-one drinks orientation with the bar team to discuss preferences
- £75 bar tab
- Regular Monthly Member events
- Up to three guests per visit
- Cocktail Lovers subscription
Martinez is open from 5pm-1am, Tuesday to Saturday.
Martinez, 50 Greek St, London, W1D 4EQ