Someone must have known what they were doing when they decided National Margarita Day would be on February 22nd.  Normally, it’s cold outside in February so what better time to drink margaritas and dream about patio weather.  But we skipped winter in San Antonio this year and it’s expected to be warm, sunny and in the 80’s this week, which is the perfect patio drinking weather.

I’m on a quest to find the best margaritas this city has to offer this year.  I’ve already tasted quite a few and have learned a few things along the way.  In honor of National Margarita Day, I present my current top three favorites along with two margaritas from new spots to try out.

1st: Los Pepinos Vodka Margarita from The Fruteria

I know, I know.  It’s not traditional and it doesn’t even have tequila in it!  But, it’s so good, I just had to list it as my favorite margarita so far.  It is made with muddled cucumbers, Los Pepinos Infusion Vodka, fresh lime juice and rimmed with Tajin.  I don’t hesitate to tell anyone who asks that I’m not a huge fan of the food at the Johnny Hernandez restaurants.  The food can be hit or miss and sometimes service is lacking.  Also, they charge for chips and salsa which should be considered illegal in Texas.  But- you can always count on fresh juices and ingredients being used in all of their drinks and that pretty much guarantees a pretty tasty outcome.  In celebration of #nationalmargaritaday, you can pick up a margarita from any of his SA restaurants for $5!  That’s an excellent deal.

2nd: Chispa Tradicional from Sol Luna

Rule number one when drinking chispas at Sol Luna: Watch out- they will catch up to you quick!  This version of a margarita is rumored to also include Everclear.  I have not been able to confirm that 100% but it would explain why they seem to be so potent.  Not only does it have a good kick to it, the chispa is made with fresh lime juice as well and a salted rim.  Sol Luna is one of my favorite Mexican restaurants in San Antonio and a chispa pairs well with any dish.  Grab a seat on their shady patio and enjoy!

3rd:  Any margarita from Mi Tierra’s Mariachi Bar

I don’t care what the haters say- I love Mi Tierra and Mariachi Bar!  Some of it is nostalgia from eating there all of the time with my family growing up but come on, how can you not love a place that looks like Fiesta and Christmas 365 days a year 24/7???  Any margarita (or drink for that matter) from Mi Tierra makes the top 3 on my list mainly because they get the job done and the energy and people watching at Market Square is so fun.  There’s always something interesting happening down there.

 

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New find #1:  Classic Margarita from Chisme

I’m such a fan of Chisme, which is the newest addition to the St. Mary’s strip.  Their food is excellent and I am super excited to finally try out their brunch menu this weekend.  I enjoyed the margarita here because it was simple- not too sweet and not too sour.  They have a fabulous outside bar and patio that is perfect for this weather.  Need another reason to love this place?  During happy hour, not only do you get free chips and salsa (as it should be) but it also comes with free queso!

Love my medal? Get it in the SA Flavor store!

New find #2:  Margarita Clasico from El Mirador

So this one isn’t technically new, because El Mirador has been open since 1967.  But it was recently purchased by the same group that owns the Esquire downtown, renovated and re-opened.  I love how they kept the things that made this restaurant special and puro San Antonio while also bring a fresh new vibe to the place.  The classic margarita is great and easy to drink here.  It comes in a frozen version or on the rocks like I prefer.  What is really fun about this place is their expansive tequila and mezcal selection.  Take a seat at the bar, introduce yourself to the bartenders and ask for recommendations.  You won’t regret it.

So that’s it for now….hope you guys enjoy these margaritas as much as I do.  Send me your favorites so I can add them to the list to try out and review.

Want to get your own #missmargarita Fiesta 2017 medal?  You can find out more about the medal and how to get one here.

And as always, don’t be that pendejo who drinks and drives.  Hit me up if you want a code to Uber or Lyft for free rides!

Happy National Margarita Day, y’all

CL