Chicago has one of the country's largest Mexican communities, so it's no surprise the city pours an excellent margarita. Here's where to go, whatever kind of margarita you're after.
The classic, done right
- La Luna in Pilsen: a handsome Mexican spot whose classic margarita of tequila, Cointreau and fresh lime is about as balanced as they come.
- Osito's Tap in Little Village: a cozy cocktail bar from the family behind Moreno's Liquors. Order the reposado classic margarita.
The agave nerds
- Bar Sótano in River North: Rick Bayless's basement agave bar beneath Frontera, pouring some of the most creative margaritas in the city. Get a seasonal margarita or a mezcal flight.
- Cruz Blanca in the West Loop: Bayless's casual brewery-taqueria on Randolph Row. Pair the house margarita with a shareable Oaxacan tlayuda.
The fun ones
- Lonesome Rose in Logan Square: a Tex-Mex hangout with a rooftop, where a frozen margarita and a plate of queso make the afternoon.
- Cesar's Killer Margaritas in Lakeview: a longtime party spot with a huge list of flavored margaritas and mix-and-match rims. Try one with a chamoy rim.
- Big Star in Wicker Park: a honky-tonk taco bar with a huge patio. Order al pastor tacos and a margarita.
Tip
Patio season is margarita season. The rooftops and patios fill up fast on the first warm weekends of spring, so go early.
Hungry too? See our taco picks and the Little Italy, Pilsen & Near West Side guide. For cocktails of every kind, see Where to Drink in Chicago. New to the city? ChicagoApartmentBuildings.com is our guide to apartment buildings across Chicago.