Sugar or salt? Frozen or on the rocks? Our editors rounded up the best spots in DC for margaritas.
dLeña mercado margarita with hibiscus-rosemary foam
Bourbon Steak
While a steakhouse may not be top of mind for tasty margaritas, Bourbon Steak’s lead bartender, Engidawork Alebachew, is proving otherwise with the No Facetime In Public. This refreshing margarita mixes Casamigos Blanco tequila, pear, orange, lime and ginger. 2800 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, bourbonsteakdc.com
dLeña
Whether you love classic or unique margaritas, this 2022 and 2023 Michelin Guide-featured Mexican eatery has it all. Their Mercado margarita packs a punch with serrano-infused blanco tequila, while the Casa margarita keeps it traditional. 476 K St. NW, dlenadc.com
El Presidente
This neo-retro Mexican spot transports guests into a colorful escape with ornate murals, fringe-lined bar seats, and unbeatable cocktails. Indulge in the frozen pineapple margarita with caramelized pineapple or the Sargent Pepper tequila cocktail with red bell pepper juice. 1255 Union St. NE, elpresidentedc.com
Gringos & Mariachis
A taste of Mexico awaits at Gringos & Mariachis’ Bethesda and Park Potomac locations. From refreshing to fruity to spicy, their margaritas boast flavors like jalapeño-cucumber, guava rosa and ginger-hibiscus. Multiple Locations, gringosandmariachis.com
Maïz64
Explore Maïz64’s underground cocktail lounge, where specialty sips and mezcal are at the forefront of the Michelin-Guide featured restaurant. Maïz64’s sweet and spicy twist on a margarita, the Ponche Oaxaqueño, is a must-try, featuring mezcal, hibiscus flower, guava fruit, orange juice and spices. 1324 14th St. NW, maiz64.com
Maximón
True margarita lovers know the trip to Baltimore’s Four Seasons is well worth it for margaritas at Maximón. Our favorite sip on the lineup? Their Maximón Margarita with Pasote Blanco tequila, Cointreau, agave, lime and salt. 200 International Drive, Baltimore, Md., maximonrestaurant.com
Mi Vida
In Mexico, “Mi Vida” is a term of endearment. At Mi Vida, that warmth is granted to every guest. Headed by Mexico City native, chef Roberto Santibañez, Mi Vida pairs authentic Mexican cuisine with sips, including signature margaritas like the refreshing La Frozen with Sauza Blanco, mango, ginger, passion fruit, agave and lime. Multiple Locations, mividamexico.com
MXDC
Head to this downtown spot for impeccable bites, sips and vibes. At MXDC, guests can enjoy Mexican cuisine and cocktails curated by chef Todd English. With margarita offerings like blackberry cilantro, habanero, or the Millionaire with Don Julio 1942, there is a sip for everyone. 1610 14th St. NW, mxdcrestaurant.com
Oyamel margarita with salt air classic and pomegranate variations
Oyamel
Treat your tastebuds to Oyamel’s creative margaritas. Whether customers want to bring the heat with the serrano margarita or opt for something more refreshing with the Al Gusto margarita made with cucumber-infused Partida Blanco, lime and St. Germain for a slightly floral taste, Oyamel has it all. 401 7th St. NW, oyamel.com
Taqueria Habanero
Inspired by Columbia Heights Puebla, Taqueria Habanero serves up bites with fresh, housemade tortillas paired perfectly with ice-cold margaritas: think everything for the classic to habanero and frozen mango. 370 14th St. NW, taqueriahabanero.com
Photography by: Courtesy of dLeña; Courtesy of Oyamel
