5 to Try: Martini Bars

100 Denny Way, Seattle, WA 98109 (map)

At 10 ounces each, it's no wonder the martinis at this 100-year-old bar near Seattle Center are patrons' main draw. Though they use the term "martini" rather liberally, those who stray from the traditional--with concoctions like the John Wayne Martini (with Maker's Mark, amaretto and orange), Aloe Martini (gin, aloe, lemon and lime) and the Backyard Martini (berry-infused vodka and cranberry juice)--won't be disappointed.

88 Yesler Way, Seattle, WA 98104 (map)

Any place with "martini" right in the name ought to deliver, and this Pioneer Square bar comes through with more than 40 varieties of the drink on their menu. The subterranean location in the Seattle Underground may be best suited for tourists, but locals will appreciate the daily 4pm-7pm (until 10pm on Wednesdays) happy hour, which brings seriously discounted drinks.

1501 Western Ave, Seattle, WA 98101 (map)

For classic cocktails, those in the know head to Zig Zag--the downtown venue helmed by legendary bartender Murray Stenson. He's been mixing up legit martinis and Manhattans since before many of the customers were even born, so it's no surprise that he knows what he's doing. It may be hard to pass up one of Murray's custom cocktails but, for a taste of what he's capable of, try the martini--stirred, not shaken.