Dry Martini & Speakeasy

Words by Simon Difford

Address: 162 Carrer Aribau, (corner Carrer de Corsega), Barcelona, Catalonia, 08036, Spain
Tel: +34 93 217 5072
Website: view Dry Martini & Speakeasy’s website
Door: Open door
Style: Lounge bar
Food: Tapas/plates & dishes
Established: 1978

Review

Dry Martini is something of a relic from a bygone era with its much-used wooden bar and panelling aging gracefully.

The bar's timewarp feel is enhanced by the collection of vintage gin and vermouth bottles which line the back bar and cram the wall-mounted cabinets. The shakers, strainers and other paraphernalia employed also look like museum pieces.

The service is also distinctly old-school. Bartenders in white jackets produce an array of classic cocktails. The aging and experienced crew from my previous visits have been replaced by an altogether younger team and sadly some of the theatre formally displayed in the simple act of stirring one of the bar's signature Dry Martinis appears to have been lost.

In 2010 the bar celebrated the serving of their millionth Dry Martini and now a digital counter keeps a tally for tourists.

Dry Martini simply oozes classic style. It is large yet intimate with plentiful green leather banquettes - similar in hue to the cherries which garnish the Gimlets. Apart from the odd tourist, you'll find yourself in the company of a crowd of older locals.

Once you have whetted your appetite, look for the door marked 'Speakeasy' and walk through the kitchen to the hidden restaurant beyond - that is if you know the password.