Exploring Austin’s Margarita Scene
A punch of citrus, a dash of sugar, and a bite of tequila all come together to form the perfect cocktail: the margarita. Frozen or on the rocks, this classic cocktail encompasses four out of the five human tastes: sweet, sour, salty, and bitter – making this concoction one of the most popular drinks to ever exist. As an avid margarita lover myself, I decided to drink my way through some of Austin’s tastiest.
But before we dive in, what makes a good margarita? “For me, I want to be able to taste the tequila,” says La Condesa bar lead Brandi Belle Hopkins. “It’s hard to put into words, but you need the citrus and the agave base for balance. It’s sweet but tart, rounded out by the tequila.”
Top 10 Austin Restaurants for Amazing Margaritas
Eldorado Cafe: House Margarita
Located in North Austin off of West Anderson Lane, Eldorado serves Mexican-inspired comfort food with a comforting price to match. The vibrant colors and plethora of art make for a lively ambiance. Their margarita tastes of fresh limes, perfectly balanced with the agave. It was very strong, a common theme throughout Austin’s margaritas, and the bartenders struck up great conversation. While you sip on your drink, dive into their six house salsas, ranging from mild to deadly spicy.
Menu highlight: Esme’s Magic, an enchilada stuffed with mashed potatoes
El Alma: El Dorado Margarita
El Alma boasts a scenic patio and a Poblano Relleno dish featured in Forbes. Their El Dorado Margarita, made with Socorro Reposado, is balanced and, of course, very strong. The bartender suggested their Avocadarita, a frozen margarita made with avocado. The fat from the avocado makes the tequila go down easier, leaving you dangerously confident you can drink five more. (You definitely shouldn’t.)
Menu highlight: Roasted Shredded Duck Enchiladas
Chuy’s: Frozen Margarita
After taking a cool swim at Barton Springs, head right down the road to the original Chuy’s. The popular restaurant chain got its start here in 1982 and still boasts the same quirky charm. Their margarita on the rocks is a classic, but their frozen margaritas steal the show. Their lime and strawberry frozen margaritas are always a hit, especially when combined with a tajin rim.
Menu highlight: Chuychanga, a deep fried burrito topped with one of their signature sauces
Licha’s Cantina: Margarita
Located in the heart of Austin’s iconic strip of East Sixth Street bars, Licha’s Cantina offers a classy yet comforting pregame spot. Grab some tacos and a classic margarita, inspired by Mexican soul food. The Lupita – a margarita with watermelon-infused tequila and jalapeños – is one of the many cocktails Licha’s has to offer.
Menu highlight: Birria Tacos, made with goat barbacoa and asadero cheese
Fonda San Miguel: Numero Uno Margarita
An upscale, hacienda-style space decked out with greenery, iconic artwork, and vibrant colors, Fonda San Miguel in North Austin is breathtaking. The margarita, served in a giant glass, is boozy and perfectly balanced. Fonda San Miguel is one of the first restaurants in Austin to focus on authentic regional cuisine from Oaxaca, Puebla, Veracruz, and Yucatan.
Menu highlight: Ancho Relleno San Miguel, a chile ancho filled with chicken, olives, capers, and almonds
De Nada Cantina: Classic Margarita
De Nada Cantina opened in 2020 and has been packed ever since. Their classic margarita – served in their signature pink cup and topped with a smokey-tajin rim – is a great way to kick off happy hour. Their range of seasonal frozens, like mango or guava, are also worth a try.
Menu highlight: Smoked Black Bean and Cheese Quesadilla
Fresas: Classic Margarita
Fresas on South First offers a colorful and lively atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a classic margarita. Their menu includes a variety of spin-off margaritas, like prickly-pear and strawberry basil, for those looking for a flavorful experience.
Menu highlight: Especial Guacamole, featuring mint and jicama for a unique twist
La Condesa: La Condesa Margarita
While their classic margarita is wonderful, the La Condesa margarita takes the crown. This margarita has all the qualities of a good drink: balanced, tart, and strong. The addition of pineapple juice gives it a sweet and citrusy punch, perfect for a hot day. For a different experience, try their seasonal Pina Colada Frozen.
Menu highlight: Queso Flameado, a rich layer of cheese with black beans, avocado, and rajas underneath
Workhorse: Workhorse Margarita
Workhorse, a classic service industry dive bar in North Austin, serves a strong margarita AND a $20 “margarita bottle.” These margaritas, like every drink they serve, will knock you out. The margarita is pulpy, a product of a well-done dirty dump. Workhorse is not a Mexican restaurant, instead serving classic American dishes like fried pickles and burgers.
Menu highlight: Buffalo Bastrop Burger
Matt’s El Rancho: Janie Margarita
The family-owned Matt’s El Rancho opened in 1952 and has been a South Austin staple ever since. The Janie Margarita is their classic margarita, with freshly squeezed lime and pulp floating around the drink. Whether it’s post-work drinks or a gathering with friends, Matt’s is the place for a good time.
Menu highlight: Bob Armstrong Dip, their famous queso
In conclusion, Austin offers a diverse selection of restaurants serving amazing margaritas. From classic flavors to unique twists, these top 10 spots are sure to satisfy any margarita lover’s cravings. Cheers to exploring the vibrant margarita scene in Austin!
