In honor of National Tequila Day, I thought I would write about my favorite margaritas in Orange County. There are so many to choose from but, obviously I can only speak to the ones I’ve tried. Since that list is long too, I’ll mentioned the ones that left a lasting impression.
For me, what sets a good margarita apart from a GREAT margarita is the mix, tequila ratio and tequila quality.
- Fresh is best! Any bar or restaurant using store bought mix is committing a cocktail crime. It is such a disservice to the tequila and the customer. Since I identify as a “foodie”, I understand that there is a segment of the population who doesn’t mind the sad sweet and sour margarita. That said, I am willing to pay a few extra dollars for the higher quality rita.
- Don’t be stingy with the booze! So many times I’ve ordered a margarita and wondered if they thought I said virgin. Either it tastes watered down, super sweet or so acidic you get heartburn.
- Use top shelf! The quality of the tequila is so important. I know some people feel you shouldn’t waste the good tequila on a margarita. I say, don’t ever serve a margarita with low grade tequila. As I’ve said, I’m willing to pay more for a better drink.
With that, I will say when a restaurant serves their best margarita at a great price, I will be back and tell all of my friends! Here are my Best Margarita’s in Orange County:
- Cha Cha’s Latin Kitchen (2 Locations: Downtown Brea and Irvine) The Best House Margarita
- Carmelita’s (2 Locations: Laguna Beach and Rancho Santa Margarita) The Best Strawberry Jalapeno
- South of Nicks (San Clemente) The Best Skinny
- SOL (Newport Beach) The Best Jalapeno
