Tequila, lime, and salt become so much more in the hands of a capable craftsman. Fittingly, the margarita is perhaps Mexico’s most famous cocktail and there are no shortage of options in town. Whether you’re looking to sip a few in the sunshine or lubricate the evening’s events with a few delicious drinks, when margaritas are on the menu, your happy place is never far away.
Di Vino Dante
Located at: Lázaro Cárdenas 288, Zona Romántica
Tequila, lime, and salt become so much more in the hands of a capable craftsman. Fittingly, the margarita is perhaps Mexico’s most famous cocktail and there are no shortage of options in town. Whether you’re looking to sip a few in the sunshine or lubricate the evening’s events with a few delicious drinks, when margaritas are on the menu, your happy place is never far away.
Bistro Teresa
Located at: Calle Zaragoza 160, Centro
Located just steps from City Hall and the famous Our Lady of Guadalupe church that stands as the city’s main landmark, Bistro Teresa boasts one of the most privileged views in the city. Enjoy your fresh made margarita with a backdrop of nightly fireworks on the Banderas Bay.
Cafe de Olla
Located at: Calle Basilio Badillo 168, Zona Romantica
Diners rave about a few entries on the menu at Cafe de Olla including the namesake coffee beverage, but their margarita consistently merits mention. A word of caution: these are a bit more potent than average, so maybe skip your 12th refill for best results the next day.
Pipis
Located at: Calle Guadalupe Sánchez 804, Centro
Although the recipe here is certainly tasty, sometimes flavor alone just isn’t enough. If serving size is your determining factor in choosing a margarita, the clear choice is Pipis…who doesn’t love a massive margarita?
El Soñador
Located at: Ignacio L. Vallarta 229, Zona Romántica
If you’re looking to meet new people during your visit to Vallarta, you can’t go wrong with this lively two-level bar in the heart of town. For a delicious twist on the familiar favorite, swap your tequila for the smoky punch of mezcal.
Swell
Located at: Amapas 182, Zona Romántica
Swell is ideal for a leisurely afternoon by the sea, allowing you to enjoy their take on the corom your umbrella-shaded lounge chair on the sand. You might even pick up something special from the roving beach vendors selling handmade jewelry and other crafts.
Sky Bar
Located at: Pino Suárez 577, Zona Romántica
The core appeal of Sky Bar is one of the city’s most panoramic vistas, but the establishment delivers in the drink department as well. A sunset from this vantage point is a can’t-miss experience, a fact which lines up nicely with the 2×1 happy hour.
El Solar
Located at: Paraguay 1294, 5 de Diciembre
On the sands of Playa Camarones stands this popular beach bar, known to locals for a vibrant nightlife atmosphere. If you’re especially lucky, you just might score a waterfront table from which to enjoy your margarita with a great view.
Don Chava
Located at: Lázaro Cárdenas 288, Zona Romántica
This restaurant along the active Lazaro Cardenas strip greets guests with both indoor and sidewalk seating. Don Chava offers a full menu of tacos and other street treats along with a selection of top shelf margaritas.
Bar La Playa
Located at: Lázaro Cárdenas 179, Zona Romántica
This craft cocktail bar takes a focus on unique blends of unexpected ingredients, but this drink is an outstanding introduction to their signature style. Happy hour is an especially opportune time to stop by, featuring the classic margarita for 35 pesos.
If you’re vacationing in Vallarta–for a week or forever–you’re probably going to want a margarita or two during your stay. The list of possibilities is practically endless, but these 10 picks all stand out with something a little special.
