St. Patrick’s Day Cocktail with Caffè Borbone Espresso
In cities across America, Italian and Irish communities have shared neighborhoods, traditions, and tables for generations. From Boston to New York to Chicago, these two cultures have long crossed paths in the places that matter most: family gatherings, local bars, places of worship, and corner cafés. Over time, that proximity created something special: a blending of traditions where Irish stout might be poured alongside an after-dinner espresso, and where the old-world rituals from Naples meet the spirit of Dublin.
Both Irish and Italian cultures share a deep love for strong drinks, good company, and lingering conversations. For Italians, espresso is the heartbeat of daily life—bold, intense, and meant to be savored. For the Irish, a perfectly poured pint of Guinness is a symbol of camaraderie and celebration. So when these traditions meet, the result is a drink that represents two cultures merging into something delightful and uniquely American.
This St. Patrick’s Day, home chef Giovanni Siracusa (@unpezzoditalia) brings those worlds together with a rich, velvety twist on a classic: a creamy Espresso Martini made with Guinness. The roasted notes of stout pair beautifully with bold Italian espresso from Caffè Borbone, creating a cocktail that’s smooth, slightly creamy, and full of deep coffee flavor—perfect for celebrating the holiday with a little Italian flair.
Choosing the Right Espresso for Espresso Martinis
When making an espresso martini, the espresso you choose makes all the difference. Since coffee is the backbone of the cocktail, you want something bold, smooth, and full-bodied that can stand up to the sweetness of liqueur and the richness of stout. A well-balanced espresso with deep roasted notes and a creamy crema helps create that signature velvety texture and rich coffee flavor that makes the drink so irresistible.
That’s where Caffè Borbone shines. Known for its Neapolitan roasting tradition, Caffè Borbone espresso blends are crafted to deliver intense aroma, full body, and a naturally smooth finish—exactly what you want in an espresso martini. The rich roasted notes pair beautifully with Guinness, enhancing the cocktail’s chocolatey, malty character while keeping the coffee flavor front and center. Whether you’re pulling a fresh shot from whole beans or using convenient capsules, starting with a quality brand like Caffè Borbone ensures a quality espresso.

GUINNESS ESPRESSO MARTINI
by: Giovanni Siracusa (@unpezzoditalia)
GUINNESS ESPRESSO MARTINI INGREDIENTS
What’s in an espresso martini?
- 1.5 oz Caffè Borbone Crema Classica Espresso
- 1.5 oz Guinness
- 1 oz Vodka
- 0.5 oz Coffee liqueur
- 2 dashes Cocoa bitters
- Ice
CREAMY ESPRESSO MARTINI RECIPE WITH GUINNESS
How to make an espresso martini
1. Add Guinness, vodka, coffee liqueur, and cocoa bitters to a cocktail shaker.
2. Fill the shaker with ice.
3. Pour the freshly brewed Caffè Borbone Crema Classica Espresso over the ice.
4. Shake vigorously for 10-15 seconds until well chilled and frothy.
5. Strain into a martini glass.
Whether you're celebrating St. Patrick’s Day with friends or simply looking for a new twist on a classic coffee cocktail, this Guinness Espresso Martini is the perfect way to bring a little Irish spirit and Italian passion to your glass. The creamy stout, rich espresso, and smooth sweetness create a drink that’s bold, balanced, and undeniably festive. With a great shot of Caffè Borbone espresso at its core, every sip delivers deep coffee flavor and velvety texture—proof that sometimes the best traditions are the ones that come together. So shake one up, raise a glass, and toast to the perfect blend of Italian coffee culture and Irish celebration.