Drink Your Way Through Cleveland On The Margarita Marathon
By Nikki Rhoades|Published May 26, 2019
×
Nikki Rhoades
Author
Nikki is a lifelong Ohioan with a love for literature. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Akron and has enjoyed publishing her written work since 2007. She has a love of travel and does so frequently, though she believes that home is where the heart is — she continues to work in and around Cleveland as a digital content specialist to this day, working on everything from commercial scripts and social media posts to grassroots marketing initiatives.
“Margarita” is a Spanish word that translates to “daisy” – a rather dainty name for a drink with such an eccentric history. This drink is said to have gained popularity during Prohibition when U.S. residents drifted south of the border seeking libations. While we may not know the exact origin of this drink, one thing is certain: nowadays, we don’t even have to dip south of Cleveland’s border to find one! Prepare to explore some of the best Tex-Mex hot spots in town, because you’ll find this margarita road trip irresistible.
Prepare your taste buds, because you'll load up on snacks and margaritas alike on this unique road trip through Cleveland.
From the outside, Luchita's Mexican Restaurant doesn't look like much. However, looks can be deceiving, and Luchita's has served its ever-growing fan base since 1982. Their varied menu includes traditional offerings that go beyond burritos and tacos, but it's the best place for an old-fashioned margarita.
Address: 3456 West 117th Street, Cleveland, OH, 44111
Momocho is one of the hottest cantinas in Ohio City, and it's no secret why. Their creative Mexican dishes and cocktails indulge diners in Tex-Mex cuisine like no other, and the atmosphere is just as inventive as the food. Get a margarita sampler to enjoy three margaritas that are as distinct and unique as the people sharing them.
If you're in the mood for a mixed drink, Zocalo Tequilaria is one of the most inventive places you can possibly visit. Why? Because their offerings include over 100 tequilas, in addition to killer Mexican cuisine. Anejos, blancos, repsados... the opportunities are endless when you dine at Zocalo.
Address: 2071 East 4th Street, Cleveland, OH, 44115
What margarita road trip would be complete without a trip to Cleveland's Margaritaville? This island escape will take you away to paradise, even though you'll be in the Cleveland Flats. Delicious dining pairs perfectly with tropical drinks, though the margarita is doubtlessly the star of the show.
Back in the day, we could not have possibly known how the Warehouse District would change over the years. Nowadays, this neighborhood has deviated from its industrial roots to cater to post-rustbelt residents with great food and shopping. Camino Taco & Tequila Bar is an epic place to stop for lunch, dinner, or just drinks. Their bebidas are delicious, and they have cutesy names like Orange Otoño.
Address: 1300 West 9th Street, Cleveland, OH, 44113
East 9th Street always offers a good time, especially when you are dining right on the water. Nuevo offers incredible waterfront dining combined with an impressive menu that even includes Sunday brunch. Locally grown ingredients, it seems, pair perfectly with imported tequila. Feeling adventurous? You may enjoy the jalapeño cilantro marg with a chili salt rim. If this is a little extreme for you, you can always stick with the classic or walk on the sweet side with a strawberry drink or a turbinado sugar rim.
Address: 1000 East 9th Street, Cleveland, OH, 44114
For over three decades, Lopez Southwest has delighted diners and drinkers with their colorful offerings. From a milieu that's downright artistic to a menu full of spicy and mild offerings, there's simply much to love at Lopez. Tequila of the month is discounted during happy hour, so you can enjoy a salty, sweet, or "seve" style marg. Indulge in unique flavors like cactus, cucumber, or jalapeño.
Address: 2196 Lee Road, Cleveland Heights, OH, 44118
This delectable margarita marathon will take you to some of Cleveland’s best Tex-Mex restaurants. Which, if any, of these restaurants do you think serves up the best margarita?
