You know what they say, if life gives you limes, make a Margarita. It’s true – this wayward cocktail indisputably makes me sound wittier, dance better and feel amazing, so it’ll come to no surprise that it’s high up on my list of top alcoholic tipples. You really can’t go wrong with Tequila; whether shaken or frozen, with a salted or sugared rim, it’s the basis of a good (occasionally messy) night. Generally speaking, the classic Margarita components of tequila, triple sec and lime are easy enough to follow, but finding the balance and creating the perfect Margarita isn’t always an artless task – I’ve had to drink many to distinguish the good from the bad (not a displeasing task, I’ll admit). To celebrate National Margarita Day, I’m sharing some of the best Margaritas London has to offer. Just don’t blame me if you’re feeling far from fresh come morning…
Azulito Bar
Uncovered in the basement of Wahaca’s Wardour Street restaurant, The Azulito Bar’s eclectic décor and low lighting creates a lively and friendly vibe. The vibrant bar offers 80 types of tequila and is the perfect stop-off for a freshly shaken cocktail. My got-to? The Passionfruit Margarita, giving the classic a much-enjoyed tropical twist.
Ella Canta
Designed by renowned interior architects David Collins Studio, Ella Canta itself is a work of art. Capturing the spirit of Mexico with sun-bleached dusty pink walls, mid-century wooden furniture, mosaic tiling, sombrero-style wall lights and an abundance of plants, the magic begins as soon as you sit down. Go for the Coa de Jima, which is a delectable combination of homemade spiced pineapple purée, passionfruit and champagne foam.
Tonight Josephine
Probably one of the most popular cocktail haunts due to its oh so Instagram-worthy decor, but Tonight Josephine – part of the Adventure Bar chain – serves up its own tasty twist on the Margarita. Alberto’s Margarita is both fresh and sour, combining Casco Viejo tequila, orange juice, lime juice, agave nectar and fresh coriander with a salt and pepper rim. This bar had me at the entrance with its ‘well behaved women don’t make history’ neon sign – I mean, why wouldn’t you want to go in?
London Cocktail Club
There are a few of these membership-only cocktail bars in the capital, but there’s something distinct about the Covent Garden setting. Once led downstairs to the dimly lit basement via a passage you’d usually overlook, you’ll be transported back to a place that marries British Gentleman’s Club vibes with prohibition-era New York City. With red leather sofas and vintage artifacts lining the walls, after a few classic, well-mixed Margaritas, this rowdy fun time bar will have you dropping lyric bombs in no time!
Barrio
Bringing a slap of Latin attitude to a number of London locations, Barrio’s colourful clash of Tropicália serves cocktails with a punch. The classic Tommy’s Margarita combines agave nectar, lime juice and Casco Viejo, served shaken over ice. Its tartness and subtle kick will always tempt you back for another.
