We recently stopped by Laris for its fifth anniversary party and they proved once again that they still whip up some of the best martinis in town. One drink in particular stood out–the Fashion Fruit martini (RMB70). A mix of muddled grapefruit, Tanqueray, kumquat marmalade, fresh mint and orange juice, this unusual combination took us off guard. The grapefruit keeps the flavor light while the marmalade adds a creamy texture. The mint provides a refreshing aftertaste. Tree, Vault Bar’s head bartender, explains that the combination works because the flavors in the marmalade and the grapefruit are in the same flavor category. “Although they’re different, they’re still complementary,” he says.

Tree suggests pairing it with the passion fruit and coconut meringue tart (RMB68). The drink balances the dessert’s textures. Tree explained that “a cocktail needs a dessert to complete the story.” Food and wine pairings move over, cocktail couples are here.