Some cocktails you sip. This one you respect. The Godfather is smooth, strong, and just the right amount of dangerous—like it’s got a story to tell.
Traditionally, it’s just whiskey and amaretto. But we’re Mario’s—we don’t do “just.” We pour in a shot of our small-batch coffee liqueur, Mario’s Hard Espresso, and suddenly The Godfather has depth, richness, and that roasted kick only espresso can bring.
It’s the kind of drink that commands respect. Not in a loud way—more like an uncle at Sunday dinner who doesn’t say much, but when he does, everyone leans in.
The Godfather Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 oz Mario’s Hard Espresso (our craft coffee liqueur)
- 2 oz blended Scotch or bourbon
- .25 oz amaretto
Directions:
- Stir over ice until chilled, then strain into a rocks glass with fresh ice.
- Garnish with a sprig of rosemary.
Why Coffee Liqueur Works in The Godfather
Whiskey brings smoke and spice. Amaretto brings nutty sweetness. Coffee liqueur adds roasted depth that ties the drink together. It’s a small addition, but it transforms the balance, giving The Godfather a rich backbone that lingers long after the first sip.
When to Enjoy The Godfather
This isn’t a cocktail you rush through. The Godfather belongs at the end of an evening, in the same way the Espresso Martini belongs at the start. It’s ideal after dinner, with roasted nuts or a square of dark chocolate, when you want a drink that lingers and carries weight.
Espresso Martini vs. The Godfather
The Espresso Martini and The Godfather both showcase the versatility of coffee liqueur, but in very different ways:
- The Espresso Martini is shaken, frothy, and energizing—a party starter.
- The Godfather is stirred, smooth, and contemplative—a true nightcap.
Both belong on a cocktail menu, offering two distinct moods built on the same love of espresso flavor.
A Classic Worth Revisiting
The Espresso Martini may have revived interest in coffee cocktails, but The Godfather proves just how timeless they can be. With only three ingredients—and a splash of coffee liqueur—it’s proof that simple recipes can carry extraordinary depth.
If you’re a fan of the Espresso Martini, The Godfather offers a slower, richer counterpart. Both belong in your repertoire, and both show why coffee liqueur continues to inspire new generations of cocktail drinkers.
