The Martini: A Timeless Classic in a Glass

The Team • December 14, 2024

Few cocktails embody mystique and elegance like the martini. Synonymous with sophistication, it evokes images of tuxedos, jazz lounges, and James Bond's iconic "shaken, not stirred" request. Yet behind its glamorous reputation lies a simple, refined drink that has captivated cocktail lovers for generations.

A Brief History

The origins of the martini are a blend of myth and history. Some say it was first crafted in San Francisco in the late 19th century, a gift for a gold miner heading to Martinez, California. Others attribute it to New York bartender Martini di Arma di Taggia, who mixed gin, vermouth, and orange bitters into an early version of the cocktail.


Regardless of its beginnings, the martini became a cultural icon by the early 20th century, celebrated by writers, actors, and musicians. Its timeless appeal continues to inspire creativity behind the bar.

Martini Menu at Shooters

What Makes a Martini?

At its essence, a martini combines gin and dry vermouth, stirred or shaken with ice and served in a chilled glass. Traditional garnishes include an olive or a lemon twist, though vodka has become a popular base liquor, giving rise to the vodka martini.


Here at Shooters, vodka takes center stage in all our martinis - except for the bold and smoky Bacontini.

Shaken or Stirred?

The question of how to prepare a martini sparks lively debate. Purists prefer stirring to preserve clarity and achieve a velvety texture. Shaking, popularized by James Bond, creates a slightly cloudier drink with added dilution and aeration. Whichever method you choose, it's all about personal preference - and a little flair.

The Shooters Martini Experience

If you're looking for a great martini in Nagoya, at Shooters we elevate the martini to new heights with a curated menu of classic and innovative creations.

Peachtini - A fruity delight with a crisp finish.

Matchatini - Inspired by Japan, this cocktail blends matcha liqueur, cream, roasted green tea, and Haku Vodka for a taste of the East.

Bacontini - A bold American-inspired drink featuring house-made bacon-infused bourbon, Jack Honey, and a garnish of candied bacon.

For coffee enthusiasts, our Espresso Martini and Irish-tini are standout choices. As one of the only bars in Nagoya using Nespresso Espresso, we ensure a creamy, rich coffee flavor that sets our cocktails apart.

A Timeless Appeal

Whether you prefer a classic dry martini or one of our inventive variations, lifting a martini glass is more than enjoying a drink. It's savoring history, creativity, and timeless style.


Cheers to your next martini adventure at Shooters!

 More Articles...

Watch Superbowl in Nagoya
By The Team January 26, 2026
Shooters Sports Bar & Grill (Nagoya, Japan) opens early on Monday morning to show the live broadcast of the Super Bowl each year.
By The Team January 20, 2026
Shooters Sports Bar & Grill (Nagoya, Japan) will be showing lots of sports from the Olympics. Live coverage and replays of all Olympic Games including winter and summer Olympics.
AFL Grand Final
By The Team January 15, 2026
The Australian Football League's AFL Grand Final takes place on a weekend in September, in the afternoon, so we will be open for sure, and showing the game!
F1 Car on track
By The Team January 13, 2026
For motorsport fans in Nagoya, there’s no better way to experience the electrifying thrill of Formula 1 than at Shooters Sports Bar & Grill. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse crowd, Shooters has become a premier destination for F1 enthusiasts to gather, cheer, and celebrate every race.
Countdown Party in Nagoya
By The Team December 30, 2025
At Shooters, we have built a reputation for throwing legendary parties, and this New Year's celebration promises to be no different. DJ CEE2 and ASAHI will be on deck, bringing the beats to keep the dance floor alive as we say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one.
Open During Holidays Nagoya
By The Team December 29, 2025
While many businesses shut down or offer reduced service hours during the holidays, we want you to know that Shooters Sports Bar & Grill will be open for business as usual! We keep cooking & pouring, serving up your favorite food and drinks so you can keep your party or celebration alive.
Christmas Dinner in Nagoya
By The Team December 8, 2025
At Shooters Sports Bar & Grill, we have been helping expats in Nagoya celebrate the Christmas season for over twenty years! Every December, we offer a seasonal holiday dinner plate (with all the trimmings) on and around Christmas.
Kids Halloween Party
By The Team October 20, 2025
An annual Halloween Party for Kids with plenty of games and activities. We'll be serving a buffet with kid-friendly Halloween-themed foods and free-flowing soft drinks.
flyer - NRL Finals Shown Here
By The Team September 28, 2025
Rugby league fans in Nagoya, get ready! The NRL Finals happen annually in the fall, and there's no better place to catch all the action than Shooters Sports Bar & Grill. With our lively atmosphere, great food, and multiple big screens, Shooters is the go-to destination for fans wanting to experience every big hit, try, and thrilling moment of the NRL Finals live.
Thanksgiving in Nagoya
By The Team September 19, 2025
At Shooters Sports Bar & Grill, we have been helping American expats celebrate the holidays for over twenty years! Every fall, we offer a seasonal turkey dinner plate (with all the trimmings) over the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
Canadian Thanksgiving
By The Team September 17, 2025
Every October, we offer a seasonal turkey dinner plate (with all the trimmings) over the Canadian Thanksgiving holiday weekend. And it is always a holiday weekend since Canadian Thanksgiving falls annually on the 2nd Monday in October which coincides with Sports Day in Japan.
People eating and conversing in a crowded restaurant with a large screen showing sports.
By The Team September 11, 2025
If you're searching for the best Bōnenkai in Nagoya or the perfect Shinnenkai venue in Nagoya, look no further than Shooters Sports Bar & Grill. Just a 5-minute walk from Fushimi Station, Shooters offers a lively, international atmosphere and enough space for gatherings of all sizes.
Load More Articles