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The Best of New York · Drink · Cocktail bars and speakeasies

The best margaritas in New York City

Updated November 2026. 14 places.

I’ve never been known to turn down a margarita, the Mexican cocktail is my guilty pleasure and thus I’ve pin-balled around the city in search of the best. The tequila-infused journey took me to inexpensive dive bars, swanky restaurants, and everything in-between.

In this guide, I’ll share the fruits of my labor and tell you all about the best margaritas in New York City. Whether you like yours with salt on the rim, blended, unique flavor options, or just want something stiff there’s something in this article for every palate. Let’s jump in!

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best margaritas in New York City, 2026

  1. Barrio ChinoRestaurant · Lower East SideBarrio Chino make a mean tequila margarita, but they make some of the best mezcal margaritas in NYC, too.
  2. Mad Dog & Beans Mexican CantinaRestaurant · Financial District & MidtownMad Dog & Beans Cantina, with locations in the Financial District and Midtown, stands as a bustling haven for some of NYC’s top margaritas.
  3. OfrendaRestaurant · West VillageFor $8 (almost half the regular price) you can enjoy a few rounds without breaking the bank.
  4. Street TacoRestaurant · Upper West Side & MidtownStreet Taco offers one of the best margarita flights in NYC.
  5. The RagtraderRestaurant · MidtownIt’s one of the freshest margaritas in NYC, made with Milagro Tequila Silver, fresh cucumber, lime, agave, and chili.
  6. ToloacheRestaurant · Upper East Side & MidtownMy favorite item on the menu is one of the best pineapple mezcal margaritas in NYC.
  7. AñejoBar · Tribeca & Hells KitchenFor $55 the table gets 90 minutes of unlimited margaritas, bloody marys, sangrias or mimosas (but the whole table must participate).
  8. Calabrije’sRestaurant · Upper East Side & BushwickCalebrije’s offers one of the most customizable margaritas in NYC — not many places can say they do the same.
  9. CalexicoRestaurant · Four locations in NYCI’d venture to say that Calexico makes the best frozen strawberry margaritas in NYC (perfect for a summer day).
  10. CowgirlBar · West Village
  11. El Camion CantinaRestaurant · East VillageLet me be the first to say the drinks are strong, and if you’re not careful they will sneak up on you (I speak from experience!).
  12. El CocoRestaurant · Three locations in NYCIt’s become my go-to spot for wallet-friendly Mexican cuisine and pre-game drinks.
  13. Jajaja MexicanaRestaurant · Five locations in NYCthe frozen agave margarita with the swirl of mango habanero is drool-worthy, and one of the most memorable margaritas in New York City.
  14. The JunctionBar · MidtownThe margarita comes out swinging, with the first sip you can’t help but relax your shoulders and crack a smile (do I sound like I have a problem?).

On the map

Where they are

12 neighborhoods, West Village and East Village most of all.

East Village

Midtown

West Village

Financial District & Midtown

Five locations in NYC

Four locations in NYC

Lower East Side

Three locations in NYC

Tribeca & Hells Kitchen

Upper East Side & Bushwick

Upper East Side & Midtown

Upper West Side & Midtown

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: 15 Best Margaritas in New York City (Thirsty Local’s Guide).