When it comes to martinis, I like to be dirty. Maybe it’s the spontaneity in me, but my favorite thing about dirty martinis is that no two are the same. You have the choice of vodka or gin, dry vermouth or no dry vermouth, stuffed olive or plain…you get the point. Lately I’ve found myself ordering dirty martinis when I’m not really in the mood for anything else. Turns out Jersey City is home to some pretty darn good ones. And luckily for you, I’ve listed all the best ones here for you to try.

 

Hot & Dirty Martini at LITM – 140 Newark Ave.

If you’ve been to LITM, you know they’re not fooling around. They use fruits and vegetables to infuse vodka (and tequila) for their drinks! The Hot & Dirty consists of their house made jalapeño-infused vodka and Dirty Sue olive juice. Of course it’s garnished with a few olives, and that is all you need for the perfect dirty martini. I mean it. This is the best spicy dirty martini I’ve come across in JC. Fresh and unique, what more can you ask for at the bar?

 

Dirty Martini at Edward’s Steakhouse – 239 Marin Blvd.

Edward’s Steakhouse makes you feel right at home. I’m not sure if it’s the genuine friendliness from owner Pat Donnelly, who makes sure to greet every customer upon entering, or just the cozy atmosphere that makes it such an inviting place. A steakhouse known for its high-end wines, I have to say, the dirty martini was just as fabulous as sipping on a rich Pinot Noir with a steak. I like to order my dirty from Edward’s with Ketel One vodka, but there are many brands to choose from. What makes this martini so enjoyable is the fresh stuffed blue cheese olives. The blend is not too salty and it’s a perfect ice cold pour. Edward’s has been around for decades and this is one of the most traditional dirty martinis I’ve come across in Jersey City. Tradition never disappoints. Although they do also serve a Hot & Dirty option on their happy hour menu, so the decision is yours.

 

Dirty Martini at Light Horse Tavern – 199 Washington St.

Walking into Light Horse Tavern at night, you’ll get all the feels. There’s usually a piano player in house that paints the perfect backdrop for a romantic date night. Aside from the eats, the dirty martini is as traditional as they come – it’s stiff and never too salty. Bartenders shake up this martini using Hangar 1 Vodka and a splash of olive juice. If you’re in the mood for a stiff dirty, Light Horse is waiting to welcome you.

 

Dirty Martini at Atlas Public House – 130 Newark Ave.  

Attention olive lovers: the dirty martini at Atlas Public House is your next stop for the perfect martini with olive brine. I’ve found that some establishments like to cut back on olive juice, but Atlas keeps it conventional. What I love about this Atlas martini is its use of the classic Nick & Nora glass. This is a glass fitting for “up” drinks like a martini or a manhattan. It’s sophisticated yet delicious.

 

Dirty Martini at Liberty Prime Steakhouse – 111 Montgomery St.

Liberty Prime’s dirty martini is as classic as its American steak and seafood dishes. Last but not least on my list, this is one of the best dirty martinis I’ve come across in JC. Why? Bartenders stuff their olives on the spot and you have a choice of blue or goat cheese. I went with the goat cheese and it’s the best decision I’ve made all month (don’t judge me).

 

My hunt for the best dirty martini might not stop here – but this is certainly a perfect start. With so many martini options to choose from, one thing is for certain, olive Jersey City! Get it?