5 to Try: Martini Bars in Portland

226 NW 12th Ave, Portland, OR 97209 (map)

You need only consult the lengthy cocktail list at this sophisticated, velvet-bedecked bar to understand that martinis rule this cocktail kingdom. The hip bartenders serve more than 40 twists on the classic martini to patrons in power suits including the Dirty Byrd (a dirty Grey Goose martini) and a chocolate martini made with vanilla vodka and creme de cacao.

2118 NW Glisan St, Portland, OR 97210 (map)

Most people think olives are the natural pairing for martinis but the date-night duos dining at this stylish eatery learn otherwise: Martinis and fondue make perfect partners. Order a brie and gorgonzola fondue from the kitchen, then request a champagne-laced white elderflower martini from Bartini next door.

306 NW Broadway, Portland, OR 97209 (map)

The martini-meets-Mary-behind-the-curvy-bar at this Old Town cocktail laboratory where the cocktail cognoscenti can order a reinterpreted Bloody Martini one of two ways: with the house cucumber and Serrano pepper vodka, fresh tomato and a garlic and herb consomme or with a Vidalia onion and cracked pepper-infused gin. Served either way, the housemade horseradish salt packs a punch.

5008 SE Hawthorne Blvd, Portland, OR 97215 (map)

This seedy hotel-turned-seductive-lounge encourages imbibers to move away from the dirty martini with The Lobby (starring lemon vodka, cranberry, mango and lime) and a pear-ginger-pineapple martini known as the Trophy Wife. These sophisticated sips will provide just the liquid courage you need to chat up that handsome twenty something you’ve been making eyes at all night.

830 N Shaver St, Portland, OR 97227 (map)

The martini goes local in a rustic-meets-urbane setting at this Mississippi hangout. Whereas sips like the PPI--a spicy, Serrano pepper-infused cocktail--might rouse curiosity among neighborhood bar hoppers, it’s the sweet, berry-forward Farmer’s Market Martini that attracts attention from the “eat local” crowd.