Tryst Hospitality has unveiled a fresh take on a classic: the Elizabeth Taylor Chocolate Martini. Inspired by a concoction Taylor once mixed with Rock Hudson while filming the 1955 epic Giant, the new version swaps the film set for the bar scene, but keeps the decadence.

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The signature 'Elizabeth Taylor Chocolate Martini.'
The signature ‘Elizabeth Taylor Chocolate Martini.’ Photo: Tryst Hospitality

The drink blends Tito’s Vodka, Kahlúa, and chocolate syrup, shaken over ice and served up: very smooth and very rich. But it’s more than just a nod to an old-school recipe; it’s also a fundraiser. For every martini sold, $1 will benefit The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF), which works toward an AIDS-free future.

From West Hollywood to Fire Island

THE TRAITORS -- "Club Cumming at The Abbey" -- Pictured: Anna Kendrick
The Abbey in West Hollywood. Photo: Randy Shropshire/PEACOCK

The Abbey Food & Bar in West Hollywood has long been home base for Tryst’s partnership with ETAF, hosting World AIDS Day tree lightings and other events. Now, the collaboration is going global across Tryst’s venues, including:

  • The Abbey and The Chapel at The Abbey (West Hollywood)
  • The Tryst Puerto Vallarta
  • The Tryst Fire Island (opening 2026)
  • The Tryst San Juan (under renovation)
  • Circo San Juan (opening Fall 2025)
  • The Blue Whale and Pavilion (Fire Island Pines)

Each location will contribute a guaranteed annual donation to ETAF, regardless of cocktail sales, with matching support from liquor brands when possible.

A Toast to a Trailblazer

For Tryst Hospitality founder Tristan Schukraft, the cocktail is both a fundraiser and a salute.
“Elizabeth Taylor talked about AIDS publicly before anyone else would,” he said. “She hosted the first fundraisers, stood beside our community when others wouldn’t, and used her voice when it mattered most. In life, she was our champion — and in death, she continues to be.”

Tech entrepreneur Tristan Schukraft, known for his string of successful ventures, has made a bold move into the world of hospitality by acquiring a significant portion of Fire Island’s Pines district.
Tristan Schukraft at The Abbey in West Hollywood. Photo: Tryst Hospitality

ETAF Executive Director Cathy Brown echoed the sentiment: “Elizabeth believed in using every platform to raise awareness and funds for the fight against HIV. This initiative brings her spirit into spaces where community thrives.”

Order Up

The Elizabeth Taylor Chocolate Martini is now available at participating Tryst Hospitality venues. Guests can raise a glass knowing they’re keeping Taylor’s legacy alive one decadent sip at a time.

More about ETAF’s work can be found at www.etaf.org.