Pravda

• The first stop for vodka martini lovers is Pravda in SoHo (southwestern Manhattan). Pravda offers 70 varieties of vodka from Russia, Estonia, the Czech Republic, Poland and Austria, among others. You'll have a choice of basics like Stoli or Absolut, or you can try something different, like the Ukranian chocolate vodka Goldenbarr. The French Martini (vodka of your choice, Chambord and pineapple juice) is excellent. The comfy, speakeasy atmosphere makes it a perfect location for cocktails after dinner.

  Pravda
  281 Lafayette St.
  New York, NY 10012
  212-226-4696
  pravdany.com

M1-5

• Stiff martinis are the specialty at M1-5 Bar and Cocktails, a pool bar and lounge in Tribeca. Named after a city ordinance that allows storage facilities to be located in the same zone as bars and clubs, M1-5 caters to an eclectic crowd of actors, Wall Street types and pool hall junkies. The atmosphere is that of a friendly lounge, and they offer reasonable drink prices (including "Halfsy Hour," where well liquors are half-priced). Try their dirty martini with extra olives.

  M1-5
  52 Walker St.
  New York, NY 10013
  212-965-1701
  www.m1-5.com

Underbar

• The W Hotel in Union Square has a sexy bar in the basement, and there you will find mind-blowing martinis. The posh, trendy atmosphere generally attracts more wealthy drinkers, and that's where the martinis come in. Try the Lychee Martini or the Grapefruit Martini for a gourmet experience.

  Underbar
  201 Park Ave. South
  New York, NY 10003
  212-358-1560
  www.mocbars.com

Mo Bar

• Servers in kimonos and Japanese lanterns add to the Eastern ambience of Mo Bar. If you're in Midtown and craving a gin martini, settle down into one of the leather banquettes at Mo Bar and order a Bramble. This bar is best at night, as the rosy walls intensify and a calming atmosphere overtakes the room.

  Mo Bar
  80 Columbus Circle
  New York, NY 10023
  212-805-8876
  mandarinoriental.com

Nurse Bettie

• For a classic 1950s vibe, visit Nurse Bettie on the Lower East Side. Pinups on the walls and ice cream shop stools adorn this unusual spot. Embrace your inner Bettie Page and indulge in the varied cocktail menu. Try the Bubble Gum Martini or the Davidtini for a pleasant surprise.

  Nurse Bettie
  106 Norfolk St.
  New York, NY 10002
  917-434-9072
  www.nursebettieles.com