The most expensive martini in the U.S. is $13,000 and right here in Chicago

The most expensive martini in the US is right here in Chicago. The “Marrow Martini” is a $13,000 consumable creation made through a collaboration between bridal jewelry brand Marrow Fine and Chicago’s iconic restaurant Adalina. 

The neighboring businesses reside in Chicago’s exquisite Gold Coast neighborhood on Walton and State Streets, an area famed for its luxury brands, and just steps away from designer stores like Alice + Olivia, Glossier, Lululemon, Versace, Cartier, Hermès, and Prada.

After the California-based luxury jewelry retailer opened its first Chicago location in late fall last year, the brand designed a 9.00ctw diamond tennis necklace, which boasted 150 diamonds in 14k gold. 

The necklace was created to be paired with a unique culinary creation by Adalina’s award-winning hospitality professional Colin Hofer: a smoked heirloom tomato mezcal martini. Hofer was presumably sought out after being Sommelier of the Year by Michelin Guide in 2022.

Hofer recalls his inspiration for crafting this one-of-a-kind cocktail, saying, “I started with a rare gem, Clase Azul Mezcal from San Luis Potosi, known for its incredible smoky and herbal notes. I wanted to enhance these flavors by incorporating garden elements that would resonate with Mezcal’s unique profile. That’s why I chose clarified heirloom tomato water and lemon basil olive oil. To make the experience even more special, I decided to smoke the entire cocktail in a cloche. This step not only emphasizes the uniqueness of the drink but also amplifies the Mezcal's natural smokiness, turning it into something truly unforgettable.”

Marrow Fine founder and creative director Jillian Sassone mostly seeks inspiration for the brand from her travels and residence in various cities, including New York and Palm Springs; however, she states in her website biography, “Inspiration can be found almost anywhere especially if I’m paying attention.” 

"Adalina was a natural choice to partner with: not only because of its proximity, but also because of their world-class menu from Top Chef, Soo Ahn,” said Sassone. “Each time I have visited Adalina, I’m blown away by every dish but also by the palpable energy and excitement in the restaurant. The $13,000 Marrow martini is a fun collaboration between our brands and an extension of that excitement. And I suspect it will make for a few very memorable evenings...." 

Marrow Fine, worn by celebrities like Margot Robbie and Machine Gun Kelly, prides itself on combining unexpected and playful design elements with serious style. Since its establishment in 2016, the jewelry brand has created capsule collections of fine jewelry, bridal bands, and one-of-a-kind custom designs.

Marrow Fine’s flagship store resides in San Diego and the brand’s only other showroom—outside of Chicago—is located in Newport Beach, CA.