Martiny’s

Martiny’s occupies a historic 1800s carriage house in Gramercy, its original structure standing as a quiet marker between Union Square and Irving Place. The name is a nod to both the building’s past as the studio of sculptor Philip Martiny and to the classic cocktail that founder Takuma Watanabe has perfected. Inside, the space splits into two distinct levels, preserving the original wood and brickwork while layering in the understated luxury of a classic Ginza bar. The ground floor is centered on the main bar, all dark cherrywood and soft light, where you can watch the bartenders at work. Upstairs, the seating is cozier and more intimate, a loft-like space that’s often requested for a quieter experience. The entire operation is guided by the Japanese principle of “shokunin,” or an artisan’s complete mastery of their craft. This comes from Watanabe, who spent eight years as head bartender at the iconic Angel’s Share, and it shows in every detail – from the hot towels presented upon arrival to the custom-made Kimura crystal and precisely carved ice. Cocktails are the focus, with a menu that balances innovation and tradition. The signature Grand Martiny’s is a complex blend of gin, sherry, porto, and cognac, while other drinks like the Caprese showcase a more experimental side with clarified tomato water and basil. A short menu of small, umami-rich plates like Wagyu tartare and imported Japanese river crab is designed to complement the drinks, not replace a full meal. This is a place for a pre-dinner cocktail or a sophisticated nightcap. Reservations are essential, and it’s good to know that a seating time of one hour and forty-five minutes is common during busy periods.