Welcome to The Martini Project: Your Guide to the Best Dirty Martinis in NYC

If you’ve ever taken a sip of a dirty martini in Manhattan and thought, this could be so much better, you’re in the right place. I’m Brandon, and I’ve tasted over 40 dirty martinis across New York City and counting. Along the way, I’ve learned one thing — while personal taste plays a part, not all dirty martinis are created equal.

I got into martinis because of my uncle — the kind of guy who ordered it the same way for decades without ever wavering: vodka, no vermouth, stirred, with three blue cheese olives. Every time. There was something about that consistency — that confidence — that stuck with me. It wasn’t just a drink; it was a ritual. A little moment of indulgence and identity, no matter where he was. The passion was infectious and this project is, in many ways, inspired by him.

That’s why I started The Martini Project — a site dedicated to finding the best dirty martinis in NYC and helping you skip the guesswork. Forget waiting in line for a bar that’s too loud or overhyped. Forget paying eighteen dollars for a drink that tastes like saltwater and regret. This is your cheat sheet to martini greatness.

To bring some structure to the chaos, I created the TATA Method — Taste, Ambiance, Temperature, and Accoutrement. Every dirty martini I review is scored against these four pillars:

• Taste — Does the balance of vodka (or gin), vermouth, and olive brine actually work? Is it smooth? Salty? Too much of one thing?

• Ambiance — Is this a vibey candlelit date spot or a bright, bustling after-work bar? Can you actually hear the person you're with?

• Temperature — Is it icy and crisp, or lukewarm and forgettable?

• Accoutrement — This is where the magic happens. We’re talking blue cheese–stuffed olives, a twist of lemon, house-pickled onions, or even a surprise snack on the side. The little things that elevate the experience.

On the site, you’ll find every bar ranked using this method, along with filters to help you find the right martini for your night. Need a date night classic? Something low-key and outdoor-friendly? A vibey lounge to catch up with friends? I’ve got you.

No more wasted nights. No more mid martinis. Just the best dirty martinis in New York City, matched to your vibe.

Explore, sip, and stay awhile — the martini magic starts here.

Ready to filter and find your next Martini Moment? Click here.