Your Perfect Day for a Margarita is Today

Friday, Feb. 22 is National Margarita Day, we’re here for you with some great options

Thyme margaritas @AcreBaja in San Jose del Cabo.

By Susan Able, Edible DC

I have literally just stumbled off a red-eye from Cabo and I can safely tell you this, there is many a margarita to be had in Baja, California and that is a very, very good thing.

But now that I’m back and for those of you who love a good margarita as much as I do, what absolute genius gave the drink its own whole day? Friday, February 22 is National Margarita Day. Woohoo and good thinking on the part of tequila importers everywhere.

Where to start?

Why not at one of the most solid contenders around? The Oyamel Salt-Air Margarita. After a poll from Team Edible DC, we think the unique crustless airy salt foam rim on a classic margarita is one of our favs. Plus, is there a better place to get fresh chips and guac? They are soon kicking off their Tequila Mezcal Festival, so there will be much happening at the Oyamel bar well past Margarita Day.

The Cilantro Margarita at La Puerta Verde. AJ Dronkers.

AJ is crazy about La Puerta Verde’s Cilantro Margarita which he swears is the bomb. In Ivy City, open at 5:00 p.m., with Happy Hour until 6:30 p.m. featuring $8 margaritas and $3 tacos.

One of our happy places is Espita Mezcaleria in Shaw. Beverage Director Megan Barnes is a top DC mixologist, and paired with their authentic tortillas and Oaxacan snacks, you can’t go wrong here. One of our absolute fav margaritas is their Mayahuel, a classic mezcal margarita with house espadín, real triple sec, fresh lime, ‘nogave’ and served up with a sal de gusano rim. Get in there from 4-6 p.m., the Mayahuel is half price and tacos are $3.

“The Swirl” at El Rey in frozen form. You can get them frozen or on the rocks, and by the glass—or a pitcher. AJ Dronkers.

If you are feeling fancy free, get your gang to meet you Friday at El Rey in Shaw for their swirled frozen margarita and a big plate of nachos. Oh yes! What a great way to celebrate this national holiday. El Rey serves up tacos & tequila in a space fashioned out of shipping containers.

Other ideas you say? We also love grabbing a margarita at El Centro DF on 14th NW, Haydee’s or Don Juan in Mt. Pleasant, Capitol Hill haunts like La Lomita Dos and Las Placitas. El Techo may be fast casual-ish, but the drinks are very good.

Another great idea? Leave work early and hit Mi Vida at the Wharf. Their Happy Hour starts at 3 p.m. and margaritas are $6.