SAN ANTONIO — If there’s one thing San Antonio is good at (and we’re good at a lot), it’s making a mighty fine margarita, which comes in handy on National Margarita Day.

Although the true origin of the margarita is unknown, one story goes that the drink was first concocted by Mexican restaurant owner Carlos (Danny) Herrera in 1938.

It's said that he made it for Ziegfeld showgirl Marjorie King. According to National Geographic, King was allergic to all forms of alcohol except tequila, but didn’t like to drink the stuff straight. Herrera supposedly solved the problem by adding salt and lime and creating the world’s first margarita.

A classic margarita is simple:

  • 3⁄4 oz fresh squeezed lime juice

  • 1 oz Cointreau, triple sec or another orange liqueur

  • 1 1⁄2 oz

  • Blanco tequila

  • Kosher salt for rim (optional)

Several variations are found far and wide, and you can find margaritas of various flavors. Margaritas are the most common tequila cocktail in the U.S., served on the rocks, frozen, or straight.

5 favorite San Antonio spots to grab a marg:


Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina - This top rated Tex-Mex Restaurant boasts several variations of margaritas including a cucumber margarita and the prickly pear margarita pictured below.

Sangria on the Burg - The restaurant and bar located in the Medical Center area of town specializes in signature sangria and hand-crafted margaritas. In honor of today’s celebration they’re offering $5 Casa Rocks and Frozen Margaritas.

Thirsty Aztec - Conveniently located on the River Walk, this bar has margaritas of all shapes and sizes including a whopping 44oz souvenir cup. On National Margarita Day they’re offering $7 refills of their 24oz cups.

La Fogata Mexican Cuisine - This place is no stranger to the cocktail. In its 35 year history, La Fogata has racked up several awards and boasts they’ve made more than 1,650,000 margaritas to date.

Sancho’s - The North Central cantina has an extensive list of 100 perfect agave tequilas, Mexican beer and original cocktails.