From famed eateries to casual cantinas, The Original Margarita, made with Cointreau, is a favorite on almost every Tex-Mex menu
Austin and San Antonio are home to some of the most renowned Tex-Mex restaurants in the world, and, as every Texan knows, the margarita is just as important as the food. The Original Margarita recipe is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. First created in 1948 by Texas socialite Margaret “Margarita” Sames while she was holidaying in Acapulco, Mexico, The Original Margarita recipe calls for Cointreau, tequila and fresh lime juice.
The story goes that Margarita Sames, who was known for her extravagant parties, needed a creation for one of her soirées. Naturally, she mixed her two favorite spirits—Cointreau and tequila—added some fresh lime juice, and the famous cocktail was born. Frozen, on the rocks, spicy—however you like to enjoy the Tex-Mex staple, these six restaurants have their own delicious takes on The Original Margarita, made with Cointreau.
Matt's El Rancho
2613 South Lamar, Austin, mattselrancho.com
An Austin staple since 1952, Matt’s El Rancho is renowned for its fresh lime juice margaritas, in-house tortilla factory and rich history. With over 500 seats and the perfect patio, the family-owned restaurant serves classic, made-from-scratch Mexican dishes and, of course, iconic tequila-forward drinks. Matt’s Knock Out Martini, served in a shaker that guests can take home, is the perfect mix of Cointreau, tequila and fresh-squeezed lime juice.
El Chile Cafe
1900 Manor Rd., Austin, elchilecafe.com
Known for its signature red mole sauce, puff tacos (tortillas that are fried until puffed up) and Tex-Mex drinks, El Chile Cafe has a quintessentially Austin atmosphere, with a sprawling indoor-outdoor setup—an ideal vibe for happy hour. Take a seat on the patio and enjoy the restaurant’s take on a Mexican martini, El Chiletini, crafted with Cointreau, tequila, lime juice and a splash of olive juice, or try the Mexican Mule, made with Cointreau, tequila, lime juice, ginger beer and cilantro.
Casa Hernán Cantina
411 E Cevallos, San Antonio, chefjohnnyhernandez.com/casa-hernan
From the bright colored decor and string lights to the Dio de los Muertos skulls on the back wall of the bar, Casa Hernán Cantina feels like a Mexican getaway. Chef Johnny Hernandez’s restaurant, situated in the heart of Southtown, serves authentic botanas and delicious cocktails. Sweet and full of flavor, the Cantina Margarita is made with Cointreau, tequila, passion fruit and rimmed with agave worm salt.
Flores Mexican Restaurant
8300 North FM 620, Austin
2127 Lohmans Crossing Road, Austin
4625 W. Cannon Dr., Austin
The outdoor play area at Flores Mexican Restaurant’s South Austin location makes for a family-friendly spot to let kids and canines romp while parents enjoy a margarita on the patio. Along with authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine from Flores family recipes, the restaurant’s robust cocktail menu offers several Cointreau margaritas. The organic margarita is crafted with Cointreau, tequila, agave, fresh lime and orange juice. For a little extra kick, the spicy cucumber version features Cointreau, tequila, fresh lime juice, cucumber and jalapenos.
Dos Salsas
11301 Burnet Rd Building Rd., Austin, dossalsas.com
Located on the second floor overlooking Top Golf, Dos Salsas is a family-operated restaurant with large portions, inventive cocktails and a lively atmosphere (especially on karaoke nights). Crafted with Cointreau, tequila, Grand Marnier, President Brandy, fresh lime juice, sweet and sour, and a splash of orange juice, the 18 oz. Memo’s Rita has a limit of two per person for a reason.
Mi Tierra
218 Produce Row, San Antonio, mitierracafe.com
With over 80 years of Tex-Mex experience under its belt, Mi Tierra has become a landmark in downtown San Antonio. From live mariachi entertainment and festive decor to an in-house Mexican bakery, this 24-hour restaurant delivers a fun night out every day of the week. Kick off the fiesta with their award-winning Zapata Margarita—a perfect combination of Cointreau, tequila and fresh lime.
Photography by: Courtesy of Remy Cointreau USA Texas