Chicago restaurant debuts the ‘most expensive martini in the U.S.’

CHICAGO — The average price of a cocktail in the City of Chicago climbed a bit this week after a popular restaurant debuted a new drink that it is calling the most expensive martini in the United States.

Adalina , a bistro led by Michelin-starred and Top Chef alumni Soo Ahn, and Marrow Fine , a jewelry brand with a showroom on the ground floor of the 9 West Walton building, teamed up this week to announce the new “Marrow Martini,” a drink that comes with a special gift and a hefty $13,000 price tag.

The new drink is a smoked heirloom tomato mezcal martini that comes paired with a 9.00 ctw diamond tennis necklace that features 150 diamonds in 14k gold.

“Adalina was a natural choice to partner with: not only because of its proximity, but also because of their world class menu from Top Chef, Soo Ahn. Each time I have visited Adalina, I’m blown away by every dish but also by the palpable energy and excitement in the restaurant. The $13k Marrow martini is a fun collaboration between our brands and an extension of that excitement. And I suspect it will make for a few very memorable evenings, ” Jillian Sassone, Marrow Fine founder Jillian Sasson said.

The new drink was created by Adalaina’s award-winning hospitality professional Colin Hofer, who was named Sommelier of the Year by Michelin Guide in 2022.

According to Hofer, the drink is made with Clase Azul Mezcal from San Luis Potosi, which he said is known for its smoky and herbal notes.

“I wanted to enhance these flavors by incorporating garden elements that would resonate with Mezcal’s unique profile. That’s why I chose clarified heirloom tomato water and lemon basil olive oil. To make the experience even more special, I decided to smoke the entire cocktail in a cloche. This step not only emphasizes the uniqueness of the drink but also amplifies the Mezcal’s natural smokiness, turning it into something truly unforgettable,” Hofer said.

Adalina opens daily at 4 p.m., and while reservations are preferred, walk-ins are seated on a first-come first served basis.

Marrow Fine is open Thursday through Monday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

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