""The tradition actually started with the Italian liqueur Sambuca, where three beans were used as a toast to good fortune - and it's carried over perfectly to the espresso martini," Chelsea Walrath, general manager of Char & Stave in Pennsylvania, told HuffPost via email. In the case of Sambuca, which is also served with three coffee beans, the beans represent wishes of health, prosperity, and happiness. The beans on an espresso martini hold a similar meaning."
"According to the coffee and espresso company Illy, three is also an important number in itself as it represents balance and harmony in Italian culture (and in other cultures, too). "To me, it's pure decoration ... they don't change the nature of the drink, but everybody loves a nice garnish, especially when it's perfect for pictures ... basically, it's a nice, clean presentation," said Isai Xolalpa, the beverage director at the W Philadelphia."
Espresso martinis are traditionally topped with three coffee beans representing wishes of health, wealth, and happiness. The custom traces back to Sambuca, where three beans served as a toast to good fortune. In Italian culture the number three symbolizes balance and harmony, according to Illy. Some bartenders view the beans as decorative, enhancing presentation and photographability, while others see them as an essential element for a traditional espresso martini and optional for variations. The cocktail remains visually pleasing even without the beans. Espresso martinis can be prepared at home, and bartenders offer practical tips for making them well.
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