30 Cocktails To Enjoy When Celebrating National Tequila Day

National Tequila Day is observed on January 24, and provides a perfect chance to enjoy all our favorite margaritas and Palomas.

But this occasion is also a beautiful opportunity to try a tequila cocktail we’ve never experienced before, and there’s some incredible options to enjoy at bars and restaurants around the globe.

The Malaysian Margarita

Found at MO Bar in Mandarin Oriental, Kuala Lumpur, the Malaysian margarita features a distinct flavor of asam boi – a dried and salted plum – together with guava to create its distinct and unique taste. Embodying the Malaysian essence with tequila and triple sec, its refreshing taste creates a medley of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds. Rodzy the Mixologist at MO Bar shared: “One of the most frequent questions we get at the bar is “are there any drinks that encapsulate Malaysia?” which was the basis of conceptualizing this drink. I believe it truly gives guests a taste of Malaysia while allowing them to have one of pop culture’s favorite cocktails and spirits. The drink is both unique yet welcoming, perfect for a night out.”

Pageant Winner

At Bar Collins at Loews Miami Beach Hotel, a twist on the refreshing Paloma with a ginger kick, this cocktail is made by shaking up Don Julio Blanco, limoncello, ginger syrup, grapefruit juice and a splash of grapefruit soda. Loews Miami Beach Hotel Director of Bars & Restaurants, Lucas Scudeler says, “The perfect tequila cocktail for summer sipping, the Pageant Winner has the tanginess and effervescence needed for cooling off poolside. The warm color of the cocktail, house-made pink peppercorn salt garnish and fresh grapefruit slice add to its Insta-worthy look.”

Rancho Gloria

At Stanton Social Prime in Las Vegas, this cocktail is made with Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Del Maguey Vida Mezcal, lime, coriander, and topped with cilantro-jalapeño air. “Topped with cilantro-jalapeno air that infuses itself into each sip, the Rancho Gloria provides your senses with a unique combination of vibrant flavors and aromatics. The combination of Casamigos Blanco Tequila with the clean, subtle smoke of Del Maguey Vida Mezcal provides an added depth to this bright, herbaceous cocktail . A burst of fresh citrus is rounded out with the fragrant pepperiness of coriander nectar, resulting in a cocktail that is both refreshing and complex,” said Jan Padiernos, Tao Group Hospitality Director of Beverage.

La Tacubaya

At Rick Erwin’s Clemson in Clemson, South Carolina, this drink is made with Casamigos Blanco, pomegranate hibiscus, yellow chartreuse, fresh lemon, sea salt rim, and dehydrated lime wheel. “Named for a prestigious 1800’s neighborhood in Mexico City meaning ‘where water is gathered’, La Tacubaya is both complex and refreshing, drawing from the herbal notes of Yellow Chartreuse complemented with a hint of floral expression given by the tequila and hibiscus, balanced perfectly with a little bit a citrus for a clean finish.” said Michael Wade, Mixologist at Rick Erwin’s Clemson.

Cristalino Paloma

The Gran Coramino “Cristalino Paloma” from the cocktail menu at Maryland Live! Casino & Hotel was created by Seth Gibson, Beverage Director, Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland (he was also a contestant in the First-Annual Coramino Cup Bartender Competition in Las Vegas). The Cristalino Paloma is made with Gran Coramino’s Cristalino tequila, lime, grapefruit and grapefruit soda. “The Cristalino Paloma is a quintessential summer cocktail,” said Seth Gibson, Beverage Director, Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland. “Made with Gran Coramino’s Cristalino tequila, grapefruit, lime and soda. Who could ask for anything more?”

Laguna Blanca

At The Vine in New York City, the Laguna Blanca takes the venerable margarita template and incorporates a bouquet of summer flavors: Thai chili, coconut, lemongrass, and kaffir lime leaf. The result is both worldly and intimate. “The Laguna Blanca showcases the exotic infusion of Thai chili and coconut into the herbaceous and vegetal notes of Milagro tequila—this, with the addition of lemongrass and kaffir lime leaf adds a spicy and tropical twist to the traditional cocktail ambassador of tequila, the margarita. The combination of these ingredients provides a harmonious blend of heat, sweetness, and citrus notes, making it a delicious cocktail to enjoy on National Tequila Day,” said Jason Hedges, author of The Seasonal Cocktail and Beverage Director at Laurent Tourondel Hospitality.

Tickle Your Fancy

Found in Las Vegas at Vanderpump à Paris at Paris Las Vegas, a decadent spin on a margarita. Created by the Vanderpump Family’s mixologist, Pandora Vanderpump Sabo, it’s the perfect way to celebrate National Tequila Day. “When creating this cocktail I loved the balance of flavors – the toasty, honeyed warmth of the Reposado coupled so well with the subtle pepperiness of crushed pink peppercorns and the firewater spice… rounded out with a tang of citrus and some smooth, velvety fresh peach purée, this gorgeous drink is one I love to make!” said Pandora Vanderpump Sabo, Vanderpump Family Brands.

Pick a Pear of Prickly Peppers

“The Pick a Pear of Prickly Pepper is a new cocktail on Black Tap Las Vegas’ menu and it is one that we can confidently say tastes as good as it looks! The magenta-hued libation packs a spicy punch from the poblano pepper-infused tequila while providing a subtle sweetness and tang from the prickly pear and lime, all complemented by the black lava salt rim. This pretty-in-pink cocktail is perfect for patio-sipping at The Venetian Resort Las Vegas this National Tequila Day,” said Christian Orlando, Beverage Director at Black Tap Craft Burgers and Beer.

Bloody Mansfield

Named after Vermont’s celebrated mountain Mt. Mansfield, this drink is found at Smugglers’ Notch Resorts restaurant Morse Mountain Grille in Jeffersonville, Vermont. Based on the historical elements of Smugglers’ Notch come the Bloody Mansfield. It starts with a unique chili lime salted rim, tequila, a special homemade horseradish with black pepper corns, Smuggs special bloody mary mix topped with Vermont’s own Trapp Family Lodge lager (yes that Von Trapp family). From F&B Director Troy Bellot says: “Conjured from the spirits of blood spilled in the tales of Smugglers’ Notch- we bring you The Bloody Mansfield.”

Amarillo By Morning

Available at Haywire Dallas-area locations, this cocktail combines the smooth taste of George Strait’s Codigo Blanco Tequila, vibrant orange liqueur, zesty orange, tropical pineapple, and a touch of grenadine for a burst of flavor. Just like George’s iconic hit song, this drink whisks you away to a sunny dance floor, where the flavors mingle in perfect harmony. So raise your glass high, toast to the good times, and let this fun-filled cocktail serenade your taste buds. Judd Fruia, VP of Operations, Haywire says: “At Haywire, we’re all about crafting unique cocktails that capture the spirit of summertime. Amarillo By Morning is our ode to the season—a tequila drink that combines intriguing flavors to create a truly refreshing experience. We wanted to create a cocktail that embodies the laid-back energy of summer while showcasing the versatility of tequila. With Amarillo By Morning, we’ve struck the perfect balance, offering an interesting yet refreshing sip that will keep you coming back for more!”

Spanglish

At Ceviche in St. Petersburg, Florida, this is a blend of silver tequila, Pamplemousse liqueur, agave nectar, ruby red grapefruit juice, and an unexpected slice of brûléed pink grapefruit all nestled inside the icy beverage. “Summer is here and a cooling libation is just the ticket. Enter: the Spanglish – it’s kind of like a Paloma but with a much more complex and enticing flavor profile. Salud!” said Jackie Eash, Sommelier and Beverage Director, Ceviche.

The Mosquito

At Eddie Merlot’s , the Blanco tequila balances the multiple citrus flavors in the drink and the Taijin rim gives the whole experience a spicy kick. “As tequila has seen explosive growth in popularity, becoming the second fastest growing market segment in the past few years, the Eddie Merlot’s team worked with national mixologists to create a signature tequila drink that was both refreshing and offered a nod to tequila’s Mexican heritage. It was placed on the menu in April 2022 and has been a favorite with guests from day one,” said Holly Wagstaff, Chief Marketing Officer for Dividend Restaurant Group.

Aperol Melon Crush

At MO Lounge at Mandarin Oriental, New York, this drink is made with Tequila, Aperol, Fresh Watermelon Juice, Yuzu. “Indulge in the refreshing taste of watermelon and yuzu with the vibrant flavors of tequila and aperol expertly mixed for that perfect summer cocktail you can enjoy with Central Park views,’ said Polat Aytemur, Director of MO Lounge.

Tzatziki Margarita

At Talya Montauk Restaurant in Montauk, this cocktail blends Patrón Silver and Metaxa 7 Stars, a Greek brandy, with refreshing Vita Coco coconut water, cucumber, dill, mint, and lemon juice and is served frozen as a slushy . Thibaut Castet, co-owner of Talya says: “The restaurant is known for its Greek cuisine and specialty Mediterranean flavors, so I was inspired by tzatziki for this drink. When I think of a warm summer day, I think of a cooling and refreshing desire to be poolside sipping on a summer fave, the margarita. I blended these concepts together into the Tzatziki Margarita. Think of an herbal cucumber slushy with coconut sugar, dehydrated dill, mint, and lime, and Vita Coco coconut water, rimmed with salt. You can only find it at Talya in Montauk.”

Peach Buzz

At Tap & Bitters in Warren, New Jersey, this cocktail is made with Tanteo jalapeño tequila, homemade peach & jalapeño simple syrup, fresh lime juice, tajin rim. “This National Tequila Day, spice up your life with Tanteo tequila paired with the sweet peach flavor and added heat from the jalapeño syrup to make every sip an ADVENTURE!” said Alida Acosta, Mixologist & General Manager.

Limecello Margarita

At Bar Crudo in Brooklyn, New York, this cocktail is made with El Cristiano Silver tequila infused with lime skin, Cointreau, agave, cava, and soda. “We’ve made a margarita even more refreshing, treating our tequila and lime like you would a limoncello. The resulting citrus flavor is, at once, vibrant and subtle, while the cava and soda water give the drink a wonderful lightness. I could drink this all day,” says Ronny Jaramillo, master mixologist and owner of Bar Crudo.

Topside Seasonal Margarita

At Topside Roof Deck in Newport Beach, California, this seasonal margarita features Don Julio Blanco, Grand Marnier, fresh lime juice, and a housemade seasonal popsicle. While the margarita itself is clear in color, the seasonal popsicle imparts a unique color and flavor as it begins to melt into the cocktail. “The popsicle in our Seasonal Margarita reflects our commitment to using the ever-changing availability of seasonal ingredients to our advantage. One-of-a-kind drinks like our Seasonal Margarita are a creative tribute to summertime in coastal California,” said Chef-Partner Riley Huddleston.

Route 12 Ranch Water

At Route 12 Filling Station in Dripping Springs, Texas, this twist on the classic ranch water comes in the perfect glass… a Richard’s Rainwater bottle! Paired with organic Dulce Vida Tequila, cool off with a classic Route 12 Ranch Water or let us jazz it up using our Lime or Grapefruit real fruit-infused Dulce Vida Tequila. “The Route 12 Ranch Water is one of our Best Selling cocktails and we’re honored to use the Texas-born and raised sparkling water that is better for the planet, Richard’s Rainwater,” said Montana Yates, owner.

The Spicy Sandía

At The Glass Ceiling in New York, this drink is made with fresh watermelon and lime juice, muddled jalapeños, tequila blanco, and just the right amount of sugar. It’s paired with a tajin rim, for a perfect, refreshing balance between spice and citrus.

Roman’s Way

At Artesano in New York City, this cocktail is made with tequila, Chicha Morada reduction, citrus essence, and club soda, served over special Artesian clay cup. “Our bartender Marek Trocha made this cocktail as an homage to South American flavors that combines the restaurant’s Peruvian signature ingredients and my heritage in Mexico. As a partner, we thought the fusion cocktail told a great story using well-known ingredients from both cultures with Chicha morada reduction and tequila as the perfect combination,” said owner Roman Cervantes.

Frozen Watermelon Margarita

At Dudley’s in New York, this cocktail is made with Blanco Tequila, citrus, and fresh watermelon. “We’ve added the taste of fresh, sweet watermelon to our classic frozen margarita – truly the perfect drink when paired with some sunshine and funky music!” said manager Taylor Kelly.

The Verbena

At The Chandelier Bar at The Cosmopolitan Las Vegas in Nevada is an inventive twist on a margarita featuring Herradura Blanco tequila, yuzu-calamansi sour mix, ginger syrup, lemon verbena leaves, and a Szechuan button garnish. “The Verbena is far and away the most popular cocktail of all time at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. We serve more than 250,000 every year at The Chandelier bar, and it doesn’t even appear on any of our menus! It is the perfect mix of yuzu, ginger and tequila, but it is the very special garnish, the Sichuan flower, that gives this unique and innovative drink its cult-like following,” said Lydia Melnic, Director of Beverage, The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas.

Bloody Maria

At Toasted Yolk Cafe, the Bloody Maria is a delightful twist on the classic Bloody Mary, specifically crafted to appeal to tequila enthusiasts making it the perfect way to celebrate National Tequila Day. What sets the Bloody Maria apart is the expertly balanced blend of tequila, tomato juice, and a carefully curated combination of spices. The tequila brings a distinctive agave flavor that compliments the richness of the tomato juice, creating a harmonious marriage of tastes. The drink is then elevated with the addition of zesty Worcestershire sauce, fiery hot sauce, aromatic horseradish, and a touch of fresh citrus to add brightness. “This enticing cocktail combines the bold flavors of tequila with the tangy and savory elements of a traditional Bloody Mary. It provides a unique opportunity to celebrate the beloved Mexican spirit while enjoying the invigorating qualities of a well-crafted Bloody Mary variant. Whether enjoyed during a brunch or as a midday refresher, the Bloody Maria is sure to impress tequila and cocktail enthusiasts on this tipsy occasion.” Chris Milton, CEO of Toasted Yolk.

The Wadma-Law-Breaker

At The Longboard on Sullivans Island, South Carolina, a frozen watermelon margarita with a hint of basil and a dash of salt. Reposado Tequila, orange liqueur, house-made watermelon agua fresca, lime, basil agave. “Named after Wadmalaw, an island in the southern part of Charleston county, this frozen watermelon margarita breaks all the rules of summer by not only cooling you down, but by also making drinking taste delicious and refreshing,” said Billy Rockefeller, Beverage Director of Ballast Hospitality (Parent company of the Longboard).

Corrido

Found in Brooklyn, New York at Eavesdrop, this drink is made with house infused jalapeño tequila, fresh lime, housemade cilantro syrup, chili liqueur and Japanese chili salt rim. “Spicy, sultry and tangy, the Corrido is an elevated take on the classic margarita. Featuring a number of housemade components from syrups, to juices, to an infused tequila, this drink has been one of Eavesdrop’s best sellers since it hit the menu,” said Max Dowaliby, Manager Partner, Food & Beverage.

Shishito Margarita

At Philadelphia, Pennsylvania at Art in the Age, this is a tart, vegetal, and fresh cocktail, the Shishito Margarita is made with tequila, shishito simple syrup, lime juice, cucumber juice, two droppers of saline solution, and is topped with a blistered shishito and flaky sea salt. “The challenge was to put everything you’d want out of a late-summer barbecue into a glass. It’s sour, salty and savory, with a subtle spice from the blended shishitos. If you’re lucky, you’ll get an extra hit of heat from the garnish – one in every ten shishito peppers are extra spicy!” said Jackie Nevin, Art in the Age Mixologist

Señor Germain

MAD Taco in Madison, Georgia features spin on the Jalisco flower, a champagne-tequila cocktail. “Instead of champagne, Señor Germain includes tequila, lime, and the St. Germain elderflower liqueur, which gives the cocktail a flowery, herbal finish and balances out the drink nicely. It’s the perfect libation for a hot summer night,” said Brandee Drysenborg, Mixologist, MAD Taco.

The Hang Glider

At The Liberty Hotel in Boston, Casamigos Blanco, Nonino Amaro, Aperol Aperitivo, caramelized pineapple pure, lime juice, a dried lime wheel as garnish. “Loosely based on a cocktail called the Paper Plane, The Hang Glider uses a split base of Appleton rum and Dos Hombres mezcal- both of which are on the drier side of their types of alcohol. The cocktail packs lots of flavor, minus excess sugary sweetness, so we can add any sweetness we want using other ingredients like pineapple and lime,” said The Liberty Hotel Bar Manager, Justin Dibble.

Kiss of Venus

Perfect for the upcoming Venus retrograde through September, this cocktail at Vinyl Steakhouse in New York City is a sure favorite for tequila connoisseurs, this tequila and mezcal based cocktail combines Patrón Tequila Reposado, Don Armando Mezcal Rústico complete with a Vinyl Steakhouse’s signature blend of garnished white and brown sugar, himalayan pink salt, and szechuan peppercorn on the rim and garnished with Rhubarb and Mole bitters, with a side of smoking paolo santo. “The drink is meant to be a full experience, playing with all of the senses. Visually stunning, beautiful mouthfeel, lovely tropical palate, a sacred aroma meant to be enjoyed with a classic vinyl spinning,” said Jason Triveno, Assistant Beverage Director & Resident Mixologist at Vinyl Steakhouse.

Green Ghoul

At Jaguar Sun in Miami, this cocktail is made with Blanco tequila, mezcal, shishito, poblano, lime, and cucumber “The Green Ghoul is super craveable and crushable! The heat from the spice is balanced by how refreshing the cucumber juice is, and it’s all given a little extra spine from the dose of tequila and mezcal,” said Will Thompson, co-owner.