Where to find Vancouver’s best margaritas

Who doesn’t love the refreshing blend of zesty lime and tequila? As patio season fast approaches, these vibrant spots throughout Vancouver offer creative and classic margaritas for summer sipping. [Image credit: iStock.com/ mitchellpictures]

Chicha Restaurant

1
136 Broadway E, Vancouver, BC V5T 1V9

This delightful Peruvian restaurant serves bold food that matches the enthusiasm of their music, staff and brightly coloured walls. A small storefront on the bustling Main/Broadway corridor, the intimate space is ideal for both a quiet drink or party with friends, not least because of their cocktail offerings. The must-try is a Margarita Patada with jalapeño infused pisco and a rocoto chili salt rim. Packing a punch of heat, it’s nevertheless so refreshing you’ll find yourself ordering a second before you know it.

Las Margaritas Mexican Restaurant

2
1999 4th Avenue W, Vancouver, BC V6J 1M7

How could this Kitsilano institution produce anything other than fabulous, namesake drinks? Featuring one of the most sought-after patios in the city, Las Margs – as it’s known to regulars – serves both traditional and frozen margaritas in a variety of flavours, from lime to pineapple to coconut. For the adventurous (or just indecisive) drinker, a Margarona – which combines a margarita with an upturned Corona beer – is also available.

The Mexican

3
1049 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6Z 1L4

The Mexican is a diamond in the rough: a friendly and service-conscious restaurant on the Granville Strip not usually associated with quality or style. Authentic to the core, they offer classic margaritas and Mexican margaritas – made with fresh fruit puree – to accompany an extensive menu of quick snacks or filling meals.

La Mezcaleria

4
1622 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5L 3Y4

With living walls of plants, uber-chic interior design and a queue out the door most evenings, La Mezcaleria is one of The Drive’s most popular new spots. Their extensive mezcal and tequila list also has a lot to do with it: patrons can choose from more than 50 different agave spirits, not to mention dozens of cocktails. The Top Shelf Margarita – made with Herradura Reposado or Alipus San Juan – is especially worth trying.

Bandidas Taqueria

5
2781 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4C5

With an atmosphere that could double as a cozy living room, Bandidas lends itself to most occasions – from lazy Sunday brunches to (not so lazy) first dates. Simple and exceedingly reasonably priced, their margaritas are an ideal accompaniment to the veggie-friendly cuisine. The citrusy cocktails are served in miniature mason jars that match the restaurant’s relaxed personality.

Biz Gringo Gastown

6
27 Trounce Alley, Vancouver, BC V6B 0C4

Bright and kitsch in the best possible way, Gringos feels like a party from the moment you step through the door. Adding to the party atmosphere are their cocktail selections – ranging from a MicheLada (lager, tomato mix, salt) to Bourbarita (bourbon, lemon juice, watermelon). The margarita options are honestly labeled “Crap Tequila” and “OK Tequila”, with just a $2 price difference. Try either to truly feel like summer has begun.

Los Cuervos Taqueria

7
603 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC V5T 3K5

Bright, breezy and effortlessly cool, Los Cuervos is now a go-to Mexican cantina in Mount Pleasant. Serious about their food just as they’re playful about their style, Los Cuervos even includes an Homage to Tequila on their website, boding well for their homemade margaritas that accompany a simple yet delicious menu. The cucumber-mint margarita is made for warm spring afternoons.

With its unparalleled views, nearby ocean and reflective glass skyscrapers, Vancouver really shines in summertime. When not on the beaches, much of the city sips a mojito or glass of the Okanagan’s finest on a patio. Here are some of the best summer staples and undiscovered spots for catching up on Vitamin D.
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