Mexican Martini
A potent and piquant cocktail that stands as a proud emblem of Austin, Texas's unique culinary and social identity, a masterful hybrid of a Margarita and a Dirty Martini.
27%
ABV
easy
Difficulty
coupe
Glass
Flavor Profile
History & Heritage
“The Mexican Martini was born in Austin, Texas, at the Cedar Door bar in the early 1980s, widely credited to bartender Jim Lemond. It's a fusion of a Margarita and a Dirty Martini, created when a customer couldn't decide between the two. Its potency is legendary, with many Austin establishments enforcing a two-drink limit.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill a coupe or martini glass.
Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
Add the tequila, Cointreau, lime juice, olive brine, and optional orange juice to the shaker.
Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
Double-strain into the chilled glass.
Garnish with three pimento-stuffed Spanish Queen olives on a cocktail pick.
Glassware
Served in a classic coupe or martini glass
Garnish
Three pimento-stuffed Spanish Queen olives on a cocktail pick
Flavor Journey
Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.
Sweet
out of 10
Sour
out of 10
Bitter
out of 10
Strong
out of 10
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
The optional quarter-ounce of orange juice can round out the acidity for a more balanced drink.
A classic Austin presentation involves serving the cocktail in a chilled martini glass with the remaining portion from the shaker served on the side in a small carafe.
Use a high-quality 100% agave tequila; its character will define the cocktail.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Mexican Martini.
Spicy Mexican Martini
A popular modern twist that adds a few slices of fresh jalapeño to the shaker for a touch of heat.
Changes
Mezcal Martini
Substituting mezcal for tequila creates a smoky, more complex version of the cocktail.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Kamikaze
Vodka, Cointreau, and lime—shaken icy cold for a clean, citrusy classic served up or as a shooter.
Picador
The definitive blueprint for the Margarita, this 1937 London creation combines tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice in perfect harmony—the Margarita in its purest, unadorned form.
Cadillac Margarita
Premium margarita spec—reposado tequila and lime sweetened with agave, finished with a float of Grand Marnier.