Tac/Quila, Palm Springs
The ‘Flight of 4 Tasting Size Margaritas’ is one of the most fun and creative ways to kick off a margarita adventure. The four on the menu are Pineapple Passion, Spicy Refrescado, Watermelon, and Prickly Pear. If you want to change things up, try the ‘Mezcalita’ with mezcal, orange liquor and orange bitters. Try two.
Clandestino, Palm Springs
‘Tres Agaves’ is a decadent must-try. It’s made with Reposado Tequila, Serrano-infused Tequila, and Mezcal, along with lime juice, simple syrup, and Angostura Bitters. Another excellent mezcal second cocktail is the ‘Mula Picante’ with mezcal, Ancho Reyes liqueur, ginger syrup, and ginger beer.
El Patio, Palm Springs
Sometimes I get nervous when a menu is longer than a Russian novel. Like, how can the chefs possibly make that many dishes well? Either El Patio has a small army of chefs in the back or a couple certified culinary geniuses because everything I've had on the menu is superb.
And that goes double for the margaritas. Their signature El Patio Margarita is traditional and quite good (and quite large), but I absolutely adore the Tamarindo Margarita. Tamarindo has an unusual flavor profile, citrusy but with a slight smokey sweetness that has hints of caramel. Mixed with tequila, it's unbeatable.
La Tablita, Cathedral City
Some days, you just need to stick to the classics. La Tablita (which after years of obscurity in a mall next to Revivals is finally getting its due for its great food) offers a classic margarita made with Patron Silver Tequila and their unique margarita mix. I like mine with an order of Campechana, a seafood cocktail of shrimp, octopus, and abalone.
Las Casuelas Nuevas, Rancho Mirage
I know long time locals prefer the original Palm Springs location, but I’m partial to the awesome outdoor dining in Rancho Mirage (and it isn’t really so Nuevas anymore). I’m also very partial to their grande sized margaritas. One’ll do ya. Especially ‘The Anniversario’, made with Don Julio 70 tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec. Classic, delicious and…effective. Uber!
Suyalita Tap Room, Indio
Suyalita is a little fishing/surfing town north of Puerto Vallarta and is renowned for its laid-back vibe…just like it’s namesake bar. It’s also part of the Vallarta Market, which is a great place for groceries, though I’d recommend filling your cart first before filling your gullet with their signature ‘Killer Margarita.’ It’s made with Espalon tequila, lime juice, and an amazing syrup made from oranges and grapefruit. Sublime.
