Martini's Kalamazoo is a family owned restaurant that has been serving Kalamazoo since 1988. Martini's has expanded over the years, but one thing stayed the same, the quality ingredients and love that goes into every dish! Serving Italian food with twist, Martini's sources the freshest ingredients from local Michigan Farmer's, and partners with local purveyors whenever possible.
I love the light and airy atmosphere at Martini's. From the wooden bar and tables, to the chalkboards behind the pizza counter with encouraging quotes, and the stained-glass windows, it all adds an artsy charm to the restaurant. They also have a cozy patio with lights strung about and umbrellas that over-look some of their beautiful flower and herb gardens. Among the flowers, you can find many types of herbs including Mint, Basil, Oregano and more used in some of their cocktails and dishes!
The staff at Martini's were all very friendly, great personalities, and very knowledgeable on menu items. Our server Alex was exceptional! He was very confident with his recommendations on everything from the perfect cocktail, right down to dessert and gave very descriptive details on each item and what made each dish unique and delicious!
They offer classic cocktails and some that are unique to the restaurant. We especially loved the Rosa and Luna Martini's. Even if you're not a fan of Gin (like me), the muddled lemon, basil, and St Germain make the Luna cocktail so refreshing, the Gin didn't overpower the cocktail. Now I'm officially a fan of Gin. The Rosa was a close second favorite made with Ketel One vodka, Peachello (peach liqueur), Cochhi Americano Rosa (Italian aperitif wine), prosecco, fresh lemon & rose water. It was just as pretty and delicious as it sounds! Martini's also supports local breweries and rotates beer on tap with the seasons.
I love fresh mozzarella, so naturally I had to tried the mozzarella three ways. House- made mozzarella with Basil Pesto, Sun Dried Tomato, and Kalamata Olive Tapenade served with Balsamic and crostini. It was a unique and fun twist on a classic Italian staple, and it made for a very artistic plate!
Next up, Vegan Meatballs! Before you say "where's the beef", don't knock this dish until you try it. Made with Impossible Meat and served with a lentil bean salad and spicy Dijon mustard, we were absolutely impressed!
If you want to skip appetizers, then I highly recommend a Martini's Salad. The Mediterranean Chopped Vegetable Salad and was wonderful and topped with all of our favorites, including local fresh cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, pepperoncini, house made Feta Vinaigrette and topped with Red Chile Croutons. Calling all Beet Lovers! Their Mixed Beet salad was colorful and packed full of flavor with several different kinds of beets, roasted veggies, Gorgonzola cheese, baby greens, and Balsamic Vinaigrette.
If you have been to Martini's before, then you know just how delicious their pizzas are! I'm a sucker for Focaccia bread. You know, the delicious fluffy Italian style bread with olive oil and garlic. Martini's pizzas start two ways, Traditional house made pizza crust or Focaccia Style with garlic infused crust, sauce, and a blend of Mozzarella and Romano cheese. Pizza's range from 12 inch to 18 inch and you can add as many toppings as your little heart desires. If you can't find someone to share your pizza with, Martini's also offers pizza by the slice!
You can also find signature pasta dishes on menu including some Italian classics: Lasagna, Ravioli, and Eggplant Parmesan. They also offer Otto's Chicken Fra Diavolo, Pork Chops, Sandwiches, Vegetarian options, Rick's Famous Meatballs, and so much more! Each entree is served with a petite house salad or bowl of soup. Whatever you do, don't forget to ask for their amazing Garlic Bread! It's some of the best I've ever had. Italian baguette baked daily from The Victorian Bakery, then brushed with garlic butter and Pecorino Romano. They also offer a lovely selection of rotating desserts, some of which also come from The Victorian Bakery downtown Kalamazoo.
Whether you go for cocktails, pizza, or any of their delicious entree's, Martini's has something for everyone and you're sure to have a great time! We tried a lot of their new summer menu items, some are still on the menu, and the New Fall menu will be out soon. They also have a Newly updated website and have remodeled the floors and added some fresh paint. Give them a visit and let me know what you think!
Take a look on my Instagram acount for more about Martini's Kalamazoo, click here. 