Does this bar look familiar? You may recognize it from the big screen. Any thoughts? Well if you guessed Casino Royale then give yourself a pat on the back! In my opinion one of the coolest aspects of the One&Only Ocean Club is that the James Bond film shot here on location. I may have fan-girled a bit when I found it because it’s by far my favorite Bond movie. I still remember seeing it multiple times when it came out my junior year of high school… YIKES now I feel old.
Located in the lobby of the One&Only Ocean Club you’ll find the resort’s iconic Martini Bar & Lounge. Considered the most famous James Bond bar and home of the Vesper Martini, this six seat bar has been visited by many celebrity faces many of whom can been seen framed around the room. Famous visitors have included multiple Bonds and Bond Girls along with legendary hollywood stars like Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Paul McCartney, Elizabeth Taylor and blogger Katie Manwaring! I was informed that unfortunately there wasn’t enough space for my framed photo, but we can just use this blog post as proof. 😛
^^Oh hey Daniel Craig!!!
We couldn’t visit such a notable bar without trying it’s legendary cocktail, the Vesper Martini, made famous by the 1953 James Bond book and again in the 2006 movie. I’ll be honest, I was a little apprehensive about trying one especially after hearing the only ingredients were vodka, gin and a wine-based aperitif called Lillet.
The closest I’ve come to drinking a martini is taking a sip of my grandma’s go-to Grey Goose with olives on ice (basically straight vodka) so you can see why I was unsure if I’d be able to drink a Vesper. However with a little convincing (I was assured it would be the smoothest cocktail I’d ever drink) I said bottoms up and ordered my own. Hey if worse came to worse I could always count on Nick to carry me back to our room 😛
^^Around the bar you’ll notice pictures of all the legendary faces who have visited the Ocean Club. Can you recognize anyone?
Red Ruffle Dress (under $50!) | Red Tassel Earrings (love this similar affordable pair too) | Similar Sandals | Kendra Scott Ring | David Yurman Bracelets
So my verdict on the Vesper Martini? S M O O T H. My gosh, I couldn’t believe how easily I was able to sip on this drink. The ice cold strain and little slice of lemon garnish were the perfect extra touches. I guess I need to be open to expanding my cocktail horizons more often because clearly with the right ingredients and bartending skills, amazing drinks are born. YUM!
Here’s the recipe in case you’re interested in pouring a Vesper Martini for yourself! Just remember to have it “shaken, not stirred.”
VESPER MARTINI
Ingredients:
3 oz Gordon’s Gin
2 oz Vodka
1 oz Lillet
Instructions:
1. Add all the ingredients to a mixing glass and fill with ice.
2. Shake, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
3. Twist a slice of lemon peel over the drink, rub along the rim of the glass and drop it in.
Natali says
You’re looking absolutely fantastic in this breathtaking red dress, wow!
https://lartoffashion.com/weekend-getaway-lovia/
Katie says
I love me some red <3
Maureen Feeney says
I’m not typically a gin girl but this looks intriguing and good! I think I’ll have to try it out.
Have a great day 🙂
Katie says
Same here!! I couldn’t believe how smooth and refreshing it tasted.
Lynne says
Katie is now a Bond girl. Sounds like a must visit! Always time for a new martini!
Katie says
Haha I’d like to think so 😛
Gigi says
You. Finally made it Katie. Absolutely beautiful girl in a red dress drinking the famous martini. You go girl!
Katie says
Thank you!
John says
BEAUTIFUL WOMAN!
Will have to interview you for the next movie!
Bond, James Bond. 007
John says
Don’t forget. Martini, stirred, nor shaken!! James B.