Best Margaritas in Tucson

Guide

Best Margaritas in Tucson

by Matt SternerFeb 21, 2024Updated May 5, 20265 min read
Blended or on the rocks, salt or no salt, Margaritas know no boundaries. While purists may insist the classic cocktail features only tequila, Cointreau, and lime juice, they’re still delicious with the addition of fruits such as local prickly pear. Even a touch of cilantro or jalapeño is nice. Here is our list of some our favorite places to grab a cold one!
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15 spots

Calle Tepa

6151 E Broadway BlvdMidtown

Calle Tepa is a scratch kitchen — everything is made fresh daily. This includes their salsa, tortillas, and, for the sake of this guide, the ever-so-tasty margaritas. When stopping by, head to the back of the restaurant where the bar resides, and you'll likely join in on a nearby conversation with a stranger, acquire new friends, and express your love for their house-made margaritas.

El Charro Café

311 N Court AveDowntown

With a history dating back to 1922, El Charro holds the title of the nation’s oldest Mexican restaurant in continuous operation by the same family. Steeped in tradition, this beloved establishment offers a menu that pays homage to authentic Sonoran cuisine, featuring timeless classics like carne seca, the iconic chimichanga, and the beloved margarita. Stop by for a taste of history! Also worth noting: Charro Steak North chef Roderick LeDesma won the Judges' Choice award at the 2025 World Margarita Championship.

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Guadalajara Original Grill

1220 E Prince RdMidtown

"There are nearly 10 different margaritas on the menu but if you're looking for a high-rise booze cruise, check out the Bandera Margarita — made to look like the Mexican flag with layers of melon-lime, house margarita mix, and strawberry." More than 20 years ago, owner Emma Vera opened the very first location on Prince Road and the Oracle location followed in its footsteps in 2016.

Mi Nidito Restaurant

1813 S 4th AveSouth Tucson

Mi Nidito — Spanish for my little nest — has been serving Mexican food since 1952. Started by Sonoran couple Ernesto and Alicia Lopez, Mi Nidito is now in its third generation of being family-owned.
"Mi Nidito’s margaritas are classically delicious and sweet."
— Shane Reiser’s favorite

Nana’s Kitchen

8225 N Courtney Page Way Suite 129 Suite 129Marana

The family-owned and operated Nana’s Kitchen serves authentic Mexican cuisine with fresh ingredients, homemade tortillas, and some binge-worthy tacos in Marana.
"I showed up closer to closing time than I wanted, but their hospitality matched their name and it took all the effort to decline their effort to further rounds of their well-rounded, refreshing margs."
— Jackie Tran’s favorite

Surly Wench Pub

424 N 4th AveDowntown

This super spicy margarita is made with a house-infused jalapeño and habanero Milagro Tequila, a prickly pear syrup, and then Tajín on the rim.
"The Prickly Heat at Surly Wench stands by its name. It’s one margarita that I can count on having to sip slowly."
— Sam Jump’s favorite

Frequently asked questions

Tucson offers standout margaritas at Mexican restaurants, cocktail bars, and local favorites. Many spots feature fresh citrus, quality tequila, and house-made mixes.

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Vendors apply in bio! App deadline is October 26. 

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General manager Jacob Yeung credits one idea above all: “We’ve grown since then, but the key has always been consistency.”

Stop in for Flaming Chili Oil, Walnut Shrimp, chow fun, or sautéed green beans finished with Sichuan peppercorns. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 

2933 E. Grant Road

Read the full story at tucsonfoodie.com@Jundynasty has served Sichuan dishes on Grant Road for 13 years.🌶️ General manager Jacob Yeung credits one idea above all: “We’ve grown since then, but the key has always been consistency.” Stop in for Flaming Chili Oil, Walnut Shrimp, chow fun, or sautéed green beans finished with Sichuan peppercorns. Vegetarian and vegan options are available. 2933 E. Grant Road Read the full story at tucsonfoodie.com
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Customers can stop in between now and Saturday for one last meal. The team plans to sell down its inventory, though it hopes to have favorite dishes available. Regular hours remain 9am-3pm through the final day.

“Running this kitchen has been a labor of love, but the numbers just aren’t adding up anymore, and as parents, we have to make the hard choice to step back and take care of what matters most at home.” 

Read the article on Tucsonfoodie.com@Lovinspoonfulstucson is closing after more than 20 years in Tucson. Its final day of service runs on Saturday, Oct. 24. Customers can stop in between now and Saturday for one last meal. The team plans to sell down its inventory, though it hopes to have favorite dishes available. Regular hours remain 9am-3pm through the final day. “Running this kitchen has been a labor of love, but the numbers just aren’t adding up anymore, and as parents, we have to make the hard choice to step back and take care of what matters most at home.” Read the article on Tucsonfoodie.com
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