Where to Find the World's Most Expensive Martinis

While the Algonquin Hotel reigns supreme with the $10,000 martini, there's still a reason to sip slowly-really slowly-when served a fine cocktail that costs more than the rent. Bartenders throughout history have become famous for creating unique concoctions that push the limits of premium liquor; from adding real gold and gems as a garnish, to blending the latest sensation using rare finds, the most obscure ingredients have made their way into cocktails to boost price tags into the thousands. When you're on an international expedition to find only the best, here's where you'll find some of the world's most expensive drinks:

The Classic Sidecar (and Variations)
Head to Paris for the Ritz Sidecar, served at the Bar Hemingway for a price of $515. This bar is supposedly the birthplace of the sidecar drink itself, the spot where Colin P. Field whipped up a batch of cognac, Cointreau, and lemon juice as an evening refreshment.. The recipe became a success, and the hotel makes use of a few drops of a special ingredient: the 1830-1865 Ritz Reserve Cognac. A twist on the sidecar can be found in New York City at The London NYC. The drink is served straight up in a martini glass with a special presentation poured from a decanter designed by Tomas Bastide. The Bentley Sidecar is an off-the-menu item and costs a mere $550.

Taste of the Tropics
While Belfast is far from any Caribbean Island, the Mai Tai served at The Merchant Hotel holds its ground with a $1,410 price tag. The simple recipe is made with a rare bottle of Wray and Nephew Rum; only 6 of the 17-year old liquor bottles remain in circulation today, so you might need more than some Irish luck to get there before it disappears completely.