2020 Chain Winners

  1. Ritz Carlton. Let’s start with – you are in a Ritz Carlton! So things are good, which means you need to get a margrita to make them great. Their house features reposado, although the brand can vary. But it’s a distinct forumla that tastes great in any one of the hotels.
  2. Tommy Bahama. Yes, they have restaurants and serve margaritas. We love the one in Hawaii but mostly frequently the one in New York. And, yes, the margaritas are great. We like the Baja Margarita with Sauza Commemorativo with Grand Marnier. PS – if you are shopping in the NYC store you can ask for one at checkout!
  3. Waldorf Astoria. Yes, we did travel in stayle this year. But it was our first visit to the Waldorf in some time. Definitely worth the wait. We can add the margarita from the Pedregal in Cabo to the list as they were purchased by them this year.
  4. Roys. a Hawaiian chain that always get’s it’s margaritas right. We are not a fan of the specialty “Jalapeno Margarita”, just get a traditional or Cadillac. They have great tequilas available, no need to burn your mouth. Quality here is always excellent in all locations.
  5. PF Changs. Long live the Organic Agave Margarita! Light, slightly sweet and always cold, this is a simple go to drink. While you may not think of it first, it’s actually a great compliment to many of the dishes on the menu.
  6. Chilli’s. Right from the beginning, Chilli’s has been committed to the margarita. Others have jumped on board, but Chili’s keeps quality high through continued focus (when you make a lot you get good at it) We suggest an upgrade to the platinum or Cadillac as the house tequila can be a little rough. As a chain, Chilli’s has the most consistent quality we have found – so the bartender training ensures success.
  7. Jose Cuervo Tequileria. As airlines crack down on comfort animals, we suggest the comfort drink. Grab a bar stool and get a good 1800 margarita. Please do NOT get the house here, but focus on the 1800 version. It gets the job done.
  8. Tio Juan’s Margaritas Restaurant. Good solid margaritas, as one would hope given the name. We like the Naked lime best, with Hornitos, and it’s a less calories for us. Have it with their Mexican corn and you almost feel like you are south of the border.
  9. On the Border. Speaking of which, this chain also provides solid margaritas. Try the Mexican Mojito, which we still view as a margarita gone metro.
  10. Margaritas. A northeastern chain that serves as a safe port in a sea of terrible margaritas. We suggest the Silver Star Margarita with Hornitos Plata Tequila, triple sec and elderflower liqueur.