Tiny Negronis, Big Energy

The tiny martini walked so the tiny Negroni could run.

Photos by Melissa Hom

After charming cocktail culture with its chic, mini format, the petite drink trend is evolving—and the Negroni is taking center stage. At spots like Lele’s Roman in Brooklyn, the classic Italian aperitivo gets a playful update with the Baby Negroni Series: a trio of 2 and ½ ounce pours showcasing different styles.

There’s the Classic (Tanqueray, bitter, sweet vermouth), the Bianco (Hendrick’s, Italicus, Lillet Blanc), and the Robusto (PX sherry, Luxardo Bitter Rosso). Whether ordered solo ($9) or as a flight ($22), the tiny Negroni offers a stylish, low-commitment way to enjoy a spirit-forward cocktail—big on flavor, small by design.

We spoke with Giacomo Ellena, Director of Bars for LDV Hospitality, to learn more about the inspiration behind this new take on a classic.

What inspired the creation of the Baby Negroni Series?

I wanted to offer a more affordable take on a classic cocktail like the Negroni, while also giving guests the chance to savor multiple twists on the same drink—without having to commit to three or four full-size cocktails. The idea was inspired by a bar in London that offers something similar, which I’ve always loved.

Do you see the mini version as a way of opening it up to new audiences? How did you decide on the three versions to include in the flight?

Absolutely. I wanted to create a selection that covered a wide range of flavors. The flight includes the Negroni Classico, the Negroni Bianco—made with bergamot and bitter bianco, offering a more delicate, refined version that’s approachable even for those who don’t love strong, bitter flavors—and the Negroni Robusto, which features a touch of Pedro Ximenez sherry that adds depth and a beautiful raisin note on the finish. It’s perfect for pairing with some of our entrées or desserts.

Anything else you’re experimenting with/any other drinks getting the ‘tiny’ treatment?

We just launched a Tiny-Tini menu at Scarpetta as part of a new late-night bar offering. It includes baby martinis ranging from the classic dry martini to a version with vodka infused with blue cheese, as well as a twist on the dirty martini using a homemade sun-dried tomato brine. We’re also serving a baby espresso martini and a baby banana espresso martini made with bourbon.

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