Our Favorite Martinis of 2010

By Roger Kamholz in Food on Dec 29, 2010 5:30PM

Yeah, we get that specific around here. A well-made Martini is one of the great pleasures in life, and it's a topic very close to our hearts. We had a few memorable ones this year - and many more subpar examples. A mishandled Martini doesn't just taste bad, it sets you back more than a few dollars with nothing to show for 'em. None of us should labor in vain in 2011 (let's keep it as classy as possible, eh?), so here are our picks for where you should be enjoying your Martinis this upcoming year:

Capital Grille: The bar is rather small at this downtown steak joint, but the few seats are terribly comfy. Grab one if you can and ask for Colin. Request a Martini and some truffle-parmesan French fries from him. The glasses are properly chilled, the olives are big and fresh, and the Martini is mixed and shaken to perfection.

Le Bar (at the Sofitel Chicago): This dark, intimate establishment mixes a superb Martini - ice-cold and plenty flavorful. Le Bar serves lots of tasty snacks to eat alongside your Martini, including complimentary waffle-cut chips.

Seasons Bar (at the Four Seasons Hotel): The bartenders here are well trained in their craft. The Martinis are big and luxurious, just like the couches that surround the bar. This is a bar you can settle into, and a Martini is the drink with which to do so.

The Black Duck: A slightly dirty Martini with blue-cheese-stuffed olives is our drink of choice at this Lincoln Park bar. It's rich, smooth and super comforting. (One of these days we'll have to actually have to try the food here.)

Obviously, it'd be stupid to consider this a comprehensive list of quality Martinis in Chicago. Let us know where we missed. And a very Happy New Year to you all.