By Nicole Hopmans By Nicole Hopmans | August 29, 2024 | Food & Drink, Feature, Guide, Guides,
Sugar or salt? Frozen or on the rocks? Our editors rounded up the 10 best spots in Philadelphia for margaritas.
Bar Bombón’s salted grapefruit margarita offers the perfect balance of salty and sweet.
Añejo
At Añejo, taste the most eclectic selections of tequilas, mezcals and Mexican spirits. The Mexican Firing Squad margarita offers a tasty blend of Libelula Joven, house grenadine, fresh lime mole bitters and spicy salt. Or, if you’re feeling indecisive, opt for the margarita flight and sample a variety of flavors. 1001 N. 2nd St.,anejophilly.com
Bar Bombón
Step into Bar Bombón’s idyllic corner restaurant and bar. With a plant-based menu, this spot offers authentic Latin-influenced recipes with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy delicious sips, including their La Preferida margarita with beet, habanero and lime or their salted grapefruit margarita with amaro, grapefruit and lime. 133 S. 18th St.,barbombon.com
Cantina la Martina
Taste the traditional flavors of Mexico at Cantina la Martina. The restaurant is a manifestation of chef Dionicio’s emigration to the U.S. from Mexico, paying homage to his culture through authentic dishes and drinks. Enjoy fun and fresh margaritas, including the mango margarita with mango chile paleta and guava margarita with lime paleta. 2800 D St.,cantinalamartinapa.com
El Rey
From midday to late night, this laid-back roadside cantina buzzes with activity—indulge in their classic margarita pitcher with a salt-rimmed glass, or add a little flavor with guava or mango. 2013 Chestnut St.,elreyrestaurant.com
Margaritas on tap at El Techo.
El Techo
Margaritas with a view? Yes, please. Indulge in delectable drinks atop a stunning rooftop bar at El Techo. Panoramic views of the city pair perfectly with their tequila and mezcal margaritas flavored with seasonal fruit purée or a spicy housemade tincture. 1830 Ludlow St.,condesaphilly.com
El Vez
With margaritas in hand, sit back and relax in the plush, high-backed velvet Hollywood booths at this flashy Latin hot spot. Foodies can enjoy surprising twists on Mexican classics, perfectly blended with traditional flavors—each sip is crafted with fresh fruit juices and purées, promising a refreshingly delicious experience. 121 S. 13th St.,elvezrestaurant.com
La Chinesca’s On Empty paloma variation with tequila, grapefruit, smoked salt and lime.
La Chinesca
Looking for an impressive selection of tequila, mezcal y mas? Look no further than La Chinesca. With an elevated menu of Mexican and Chinese-influenced bites and a stunning outdoor patio, savor the Fill It, Regular classic margarita, or try the On Empty with tequila, grapefruit and smoked salt. 1036 Spring Garden St.,lachinescaphl.com
Margarita lovers will be in heaven at La Llorona Cantina Mexicana with variations like the classic, passion fruit and mezcal.
La Llorona Cantina Mexicana
While their savory street tacos may pull foodies through the door, the margaritas are sure to make you stay a while. Choose from their collection of housemade margaritas: the mezcal, with a note of poblano chile liqueur, agave and fresh lime juice, and the passion fruit, starring Casco Viejo tequila and Aperol. 1551 W. Passyunk Ave.,lalloronaphilly.com
LMNO
This ’70s-inspired Mexican spot by Stephen Starr isn’t just about delicious margaritas—it’s a lively hub featuring a gallery, bookstore and hidden cocktail lounge all rolled into one. Sip on prickly pear and strawberry margaritas while snacking on aguachiles, pollo asado tacos and coal-roasted seafood at this Fishtown gem. 1749 N. Front St.,lmnophilly.com
LMNO’s pitchers are a must for a table of margarita fans.
Sor Ynéz
Transport yourself to Mexico at Sor Ynéz. Reminiscent of Mexico City’s casonas with layered plaster finishes, this spot’s decor and menu pay homage to the country’s rich history. Guests can enjoy the classic margaritas in cranberry, pear or spicy flavors. 1800 N. American St.,sorynez.com
Photography by: COURTNEY APPLE; COURTESY OF BRANDS; BEN WENTZEL; COURTESY OF BRANDS