Jump to: Classic Tex-Mex Icons | Best Frozen Margaritas | Unique & Craft Variations | South Austin Neighborhood Gems
There is nothing quite like high-quality tequila balanced with fresh lime juice, orange liqueur, and a salted rim to refresh you on a warm Texas afternoon. Austin may be landlocked, but when it comes to world-class agave cocktails, the capital city stands second to none. Whether you prefer a potent house pour, an adventurous fruit infusion, or an iced-down slush on a sunny patio, the local drink scene has a seat waiting for you.
From heritage Tex-Mex cantinas serving generations-old recipes to innovative Eastside cocktail dens, here is your comprehensive guide to the absolute best drinks across the metroplex.
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Classic Tex-Mex Spots for Margaritas in Austin
Matt’s El Rancho
A South Lamar institution since 1952, Matt’s El Rancho is a quintessential Austin landmark for classic Tex-Mex dining. Their extensive drink menu features scratch-made lime mix, premium tequilas, and timeless recipes served in a sprawling, energetic dining room.
Order the classic Matt’s Knockout Margarita on the rocks, or ask for “el fuego” if you want a subtle jalapeño kick with your meal.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Monday 11 am – 9 pm | Wednesday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 11 pm | Tuesday Closed
Where: 2613 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $12 – $18 per cocktail
Chuy’s
Founded on Barton Springs Road in 1982, Chuy’s has grown into a Tex-Mex icon known for kitschy decor and generous portions. Their beverage program relies strictly on freshly squeezed lime juice and 100% agave tequilas.
Try the Chuy’s Famous Rita or opt for a Grandma’s Rockin’ Rita served in an extra-large shaker with a floater of Grand Marnier.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 11 am – 10 pm | Friday – Saturday 11 am – 11 pm
Where: 1728 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $9 – $14 per cocktail
Top Locations for Best Frozen Margaritas in Austin
De Nada Cantina
This East Austin gem has quickly established itself as a premier destination for frozen cocktails, serving drinks in a vibrant, greenhouse-inspired space.
Their classic frozen drink is widely praised for its potency and perfect balance, while the rotating seasonal fruit slushies—like mango or passionfruit—are essential warm-weather orders. Note: Due to their strength, there is a venue limit per guest.
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 11 am – 12 am | Sunday 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 4715 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: $10 – $14 per cocktail
Fresa’s Chicken al Carbón
With fantastic patio seating on South First and North Lamar, Fresa’s pairs wood-fired chicken with an exceptional beverage program.
The Cucumber Cilantro frozen drink offers a bright herbal twist on the standard recipe, making it one of the most refreshing outdoor options in the city.
Operating Hours: Monday – Friday 11 am – 10 pm | Saturday – Sunday 10 am – 10 pm
Where: 1703 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704
How Much: $10 – $14 per cocktail
Unique Craft Flavors & Margaritas in Austin
Suerte
Suerte in East Austin is celebrated nationwide for its artisanal masa-centric menu and sophisticated agave spirit selection.
Their standout signature drink, Don Dario, features reposado tequila, tamarind, fresh lime, and sarsaparilla bitters for a complex, smoky-sweet cocktail experience.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 5 pm – 10 pm | Friday 5 pm – 11 pm | Saturday 11 am – 11 pm | Sunday 11 am – 10 pm
Where: 1800 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: $14 – $18 per cocktail
Nasha
Nasha blends Indian spices with Mexican street food concepts, resulting in one of the most distinctive culinary and drink pairings in East Austin.
Their Tulsi Margarita uses holy basil for a minty, refreshing profile, while their spice-curried variations deliver unexpected depth that pairs perfectly with tikka masala tacos.
Operating Hours: Monday – Thursday 11 am – 11 pm | Friday 11 am – 12 am | Saturday 12 pm – 12 am | Sunday 12 pm – 11 pm
Where: 1614 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: $10 – $14 per cocktail
The Peached Tortilla
This popular Burnet Road establishment specializes in Asian-Texan fusion fare, serving flavorful bowls, tacos, and craft cocktails.
The Margarita de Peached combines habanero-infused tequila, Thai basil, and fresh lime for a spicy, aromatic cocktail that elevates any meal.
Operating Hours: Lunch: Tuesday – Friday 11 am – 2 pm || Brunch: Weekends 10:30 am – 2:30 pm || Dinner: Tuesday – Thursday & Sunday 5 pm – 9 pm
Where: 5520 Burnet Rd #100, Austin, TX 78756
How Much: $12 – $16 per cocktail
Neighborhood Favorites for Best Margaritas in South Austin
The Little Darlin’
This classic South Austin neighborhood bar features a sprawling shaded yard, pool tables, and scratch-made bar food.
In warm weather, their frozen Mango Fandango offers a generous, fruity pour that keeps locals coming back all summer long.
Operating Hours: Daily 11 am – 2 am
Where: 6507 Circle S Rd, Austin, TX 78745
How Much: $9 – $13 per cocktail
Licha’s Cantina
Set in a cozy bungalow on East 6th Street, Licha’s focuses on interior Mexican street food and traditional agave spirits.
Their house drink incorporates Exotico reposado, Combier, lime, and agave nectar, available individually or in large sharing pitchers during happy hour.
Operating Hours: Sunday – Thursday 4 pm – 10 pm | Friday 4 pm – 11 pm | Saturday 12 pm – 11 pm
Where: 1306 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702
How Much: $10 – $14 per cocktail
Eldorado Cafe
Located in North Austin, Eldorado Cafe serves comfort food inspired by Southwestern and Mexican home cooking.
Their house cocktail list allows guests to select from over 15 artisanal tequilas or mezcals shaken with fresh lime juice and organic agave nectar.
Operating Hours: Monday – Saturday 9 am – 10 pm | Sunday Closed
Where: 3300 W Anderson Ln., Austin, TX 78757
How Much: $10 – $15 per cocktail
Know Before You Go: Navigating the Austin Margarita Scene
While many of the top agave hot spots are concentrated along South Lamar, Barton Springs Road, and East 6th Street, exceptional drinks are distributed across the entire metroplex. Residents living in surrounding suburbs like Round Rock, Westlake, Sunset Valley, or Oak Hill can easily reach most of these destinations within a 15- to 25-minute drive. During peak weekend hours and warm summer evenings, ridesharing is highly recommended due to limited parking along busy corridors like South Congress and East Cesar Chavez.
Frequently Asked Questions About Margaritas in Austin
Who makes the most unique margarita in Austin?
Curra’s Grill on East Oltorf is famous for inventing the Avocado Margarita, a creamy frozen creation that has been a local favorite for decades. For spice lovers, De Nada Cantina and Suerte offer exceptional tamarind and chili-infused options.
What is the difference between an Austin Mexican Martini and a classic margarita?
The Mexican Martini is an Austin-original cocktail variation served in a shaker with a martini glass. It typically includes tequila, orange liqueur, lime juice, and a splash of olive brine, served with jalapeño-stuffed olives.
Where can I find great happy hour margarita deals in Austin?
Many local favorites—including El Alma, Licha’s Cantina, and Polvos—offer discounted house drinks and half-price pitchers during weekday happy hours (typically 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM).
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