Martinis and the City

Anyone who knows me knows I’m a fiend for martinis. Especially cheap ones. I mean, sure, I occasionally like to treat myself to a fancy bevvie (like the $18 Signature Martini from Yorkville’s One) when I’m flittering around town with the girls dressed to the nines.

But let’s be honest. Why have one martini for almost $20 when you could have four for the price of one? (I know a lot of you are nodding in agreement with me here. You can admit it. No judgement from yours truly.)

So in celebration of the return of our four favourite, Manolo-lusting, sexually-liberating, cosmo-sipping, fashion-forward NYC BFFs, here are some hot spots in the city you can get your martini on (without putting too much of a dent in your wallet!)

Hey Lucy’s (295 King Street West)

CHA-CHING: $3.99 martinis every Wednesday.

I’ll admit I’m completely biased towards this place because I found this gem in my final year of university in 2006 when cheap martini Wednesdays were only $3.50. Plus it’s got a cozy New York vibe with the interior brick and intimate booths, and anyone I have introduced to it has gotten hooked. Personal favourites on the martini list include the Godzilla and Sextini. Although, the Hey Lucy has gummi bears in it and that’s just plain delicious.

Eat My Martini (648 College Street West) 

CHA-CHING: $5.00 martinis Sunday through Thursday

There are over 130 martinis on the menu. Nothing more needs to be said. There’s something to fit every palate. And if you don’t like your first one, you have at least another hundred more to choose from to find your flavour.

Fionn McCool's (70 The Esplanade)

CHA-CHING: $5.00 martinis every Thursday

It has a great patio for the summer and the most delicious Espresso Tiramisu martini that goes down very smooth. Almost too smooth.

Insomnia (593 Bloor Street West) 

CHA-CHING: $5.50 martinis every Thursday

Located in the Annex, this gem boasts a martini list of over 50 selections (ranging from regular to premium vodka/gin martinis) and one of the most popular is the French Martini, which is a titillating blend of vodka, chambord and pineapple juice. Miyam!

Nirvana (434 College Street, 416-927-8885)

CHA-CHING: $5.95 martinis every Thursday

Nirvana has such a hot reputation and rabidly returning customer-base that it doesn’t even need a website (but here's a little more info for you should you wish to check it out). It offers a martini list of 15 deliciously drinkworthy delights, the most popular being the Lynchburg Lemonade, Wanar Warrior and Tommy’s Uncle (try saying those names after a martini or two!)