John Ennis has found his perfect combination - have you tried a Martini and fries?
As a bartender, I’ve seen countless pairings come and go. Some feel timeless, like Margaritas and tacos, while others are fads like espresso poured over a Fredo — they fade as quickly as they appear. But every so often, a pairing emerges that’s so simple yet so perfect, it stops you in your tracks. For me, that pairing is Martinis and fries.
In my small circle of Martini loving friends, we affectionately call this the bartender’s Happy Meal. And it’s easy to see why. A Martini is elegance in a glass—sharp, clean, and refined. Fries, on the other hand, are the ultimate comfort food—humble, familiar, and unapologetically indulgent. Together, they create a balance that’s indulgent yet refreshing, glamorous yet approachable. It’s everything you didn’t know you needed, all on one table.
At the heart of this pairing is contrast. The icy crispness of a Martini acts as a palate cleanser, slicing through the rich, salty decadence of fries. Meanwhile, the fries’ golden crunch highlights the martini’s botanical flavors, adding depth and complexity to every sip. The result? A sensory experience that’s impossible to resist.
For an elevated take, sidecar your fries with a blue cheese dip. The creamy, tangy richness of the cheese adds another layer of luxury, turning this already indulgent pairing into a true culinary delight.
Martini and fries might not be the pairing you expect, but once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever enjoyed one without the other. It’s a perfect reminder of why food and drink are meant to be fun—about contrasts, indulgence, and sometimes breaking the rules.
So, next time you’re out, skip the predictable bar snacks. Order the fries, savor your Martini, and discover the simple joy of the bartender’s Happy Meal. Here are three places that do it best:
The Connaught Bar, London
The Connaught Bar is practically a temple for Martini lovers. Ago Perrone and Giorgio Bargiani have turned Martini-making into an art form, crafting bespoke drinks from their iconic Martini trolley. Here’s the insider tip: While Ago and Giorgio might recommend their delicious thin-crust pizza as the perfect Martini pairing, resist temptation. Opt for the fries instead. Crispy, golden, and perfectly seasoned, they bring out the best in the Connaught’s world-class Martinis.
Sterling, Manchester
Tucked under No.1 Deansgate, Sterling is one of Manchester’s most exciting cocktail spots. Their Martinis are a masterclass in balance and precision, while their fries are golden, salty perfection. Together, they form a pairing that feels as vibrant as Manchester itself — sophisticated yet unpretentious, refined but never stuffy.
Hawksmoor (any of its nationwide bars)
Known for their uncompromising approach to quality, Hawksmoor’s bars are a must-visit for Martini and fries enthusiasts. Their Martinis are crisp, bold, and impeccably crafted, while their fries are the stuff of legend. Add a side of blue cheese dip, and you’ve got the ultimate bartender’s Happy Meal—comfort and class in every bite and sip.