You know what holiday falls on February 22nd? It’s National Margarita Day! Personally, I prefer a tart, fresh margarita. So, I took to good ‘ole social media to poll the Huntsville community in order to provide you with a hopefully impartial list of the favorite margarita destinations in the city. And let me tell you, for having a Mexican restaurant on what seems like every corner, we have some clear leading contenders in the margarita race!
About 50% of the votes were for the beloved Taco Mama. They have many flavor options to choose from – definitely something to please everyone’s palette. National Margarita Day falls on a Tuesday this year, and guess what? They offer half-priced skinny and house margarita pitchers from 3:00 to close every Tuesday. Also, Taco Mama is convenient to everyone with four locations: Jones Valley, Twickenham, Providence, and the new Clift Farms in Madison.
Agave & Rye is the newest in town on the list, and this place will instantly suck you in with its eccentric atmosphere. Also, the service is (as they describe) “epic”. They excitedly go above and beyond to ensure the menu items are explained and guests are satisfied. Expect a wait if you arrive during a peak time, but they have a large indoor bar where you can almost always find a seat while you wait. I typically struggle to find a good spicy margarita, but theirs will definitely make your eyes water, and make sure to take advantage of their unique variety of cocktails outside of margaritas!
Of course, the infamous Rosie’s Mexican Cantina had its fair share of votes. Even being in the Huntsville area for 26 years, I am still amazed at the almost cult-like following this place has. It is something serious! But for good reason, you can expect quick service, large portions, and stout cocktails. Their margaritas, sangrias, and mambo taxis are all 1$ off from 3:00-6:00.
La Alameda is a college student/Redstone Arsenal employee favorite. Upon entry, it is your average Mexican restaurant with bright decorations and cheerful Mexican tunes playing. But, trust me, once you begin interacting with their friendly staff and take a sip of your drink, it just hits different – a good different. I suggest a “Margarona”, which is a margarita served with a pony Corona. Inexpensive prices, including the amazing $8.75 lunch/$10.00 dinner buffet (COVID friendly – Elena will serve you and explain the copious options very well), makes this a budget friendly option.
For my fellow folks who are after a not-so-sweet margarita, I believe La Esquina Cocina Tapas Bar & Restaurant is a great choice for you. They use fresh ingredients and infused tequilas as opposed to the typical sweet and sour mix. You can find happy hour food specials and $2.00 off traditional margaritas from 3:00-6:00. It is also conveniently located downtown, if you are wanting to continue your holiday celebration afterwards.
Looking for an afternoon pick-me-up? Humphrey’s Bar and Grill partakes in Margarita and Taco Tuesday, where you can snag $5 margaritas and half off tacos ALL DAY.
Grab your friends and get your marg on – Cheers!
Brooke landed in the Rocket City in 1993 due to her father’s job, which is also a wildly common story around here. She grew up in Hazel Green (go Trojans) playing soccer and spending her free time exploring the trails and backroads throughout northern Alabama and southern Tennessee. Just could not leave the beautiful Huntsville area, she attended The University of Alabama Huntsville and continues to work there with the Alabama Space Grant Consortium, helping students pursue their dreams in STEM fields. You can find her at a new restaurant, trying one of everything, or romping around the Land Trust with her husband and two goofy boxers – follow Brooke’s adventures on her Instagram, @bbentzyo.
Sorry but you missed the best Margarita in the area….El Omeca! By far the best