Shaken, not stirred – we’re all familiar with 007’s famous catchphrase, as well as his nightcap of choice – the martini. For many of us, though, that’s probably where our knowledge ends. The latest Bond flick’s recent release provides the perfect excuse to de-mystify the classic drink for ourselves – and, luckily, the rustic yet stylish restaurant-and-bar, Mr and Mrs Fox, aims to do just that with its new specialised martini trolley.
While different cocktail trends have come and gone – last year was all about molecular mixology and elderflower syrup, this year marked the takeover of smokey bourbons presented with nothing more than giant slabs of ice – the martini has never truly taken off. The drink has a dedicated set of tried-and-true die-hards, but it’s not something you might casually decide to experiment with on a night out. I think people are often very intimidated by the martini, says restaurant manager Peter Murray. It’s quite a strong, powerful drink, and a lot of it comes down to the communication with the bartender – whether you want it dry or wet. To be honest, most people don’t know what that means. People are quite lost with it. For instance? The way Mr. Bond orders the drink is actually frowned upon, as shaking the drink breaks up the ice. Smaller ice fragments dilute the drink quicker, and you end up with a watery martini. (Needless to say, all of Mr and Mrs Fox’s martinis are stirred.)
We wanted to remove some of the questions that people had martinis, and some of the myths, explains Peter, such as ‘what happens if I don’t want a martini with gin?’ and ‘martinis are all so strong’. Contrary to popular belief, there’s more than one way to serve a martini – Mr and Mrs Fox offers four. The martini of the house is the Martinez, a red martini that’s heavy on the vermouth – a locally produced red vermouth called Mancino – gin, and orange Angostura bitters, served straight up in a martini glass. Also on the menu is the A.S.D.M. – which stands for American Standard Dry Martini, the go-to drink served at most hotels and bars; the Smokey Martini, a strong drink finished with Ardbeg whiskey; and the Floral Martini, a more approachable drink served with cucumber and rose petals. Fancy something else entirely? Just talk to the bartender, who will help you pick among a range of spirits and vermouths to best suit your taste. Finish off your drink with an array of different bitters, garnishes, fragrances and sprays. Rather than a classic martini glass, the drinks are served in Marie Antoinette glasses – a glass typically used for champagne with a retro look that suits the overall vibe of the restaurant.
Mostly served before dinner as an aperitif, the trolley – and its martini menu – is available every night.
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