Tequila Cocktails That Go Beyond the Margarita

The Margarita is often celebrated as a perfect introduction to tequila. The drink’s approachability and refreshing nature no doubt helps it maintain its standing as the most popular and best-selling tequila cocktail. But this ubiquity can be a blessing and a curse as it can stymie tequila’s potential. It’s why 2026 James Beard semifinalist Dan Suro of Philadelphia’s La Jefa and Tequilas won’t even sell Margaritas, telling us, “If we put Margaritas on the menu, we would not sell anything else.” Here are a few of our favorite recipes that highlight the spirit’s range, from spritzes to creative takes on other classics.

Blue Tulip

A luscious combo of tequila, pistachio and melon liqueur.

Café Mexicana

When aged tequila enters the Irish Coffee equation.

El Capitan

A Batanga recipe reimagined as a boozy sipper, with a cola syrup and a splash of cava as a restrained nod to the original.

Fuerza

This Oaxaca Old Fashioned riff swaps mezcal for scotch, complementing the richness of cold-brew coffee and chocolate mole.

How I Met Your Mojito

Despite its name, this tequila cocktail is reminiscent of Ranch Water with a refreshing mix of coconut water, mint tea, and lemongrass syrup.

La Chiquita Rosa

A tequila Old Fashioned reminiscent of a Mexican sweet treat.

Last Call

A tropical tequila cocktail with a warming spice.

Out of Office

A silky clarified tequila milk punch.

Poblano Paloma

Summer sunshine in a glass.

Rubino Tequila Spritz

An earthy tequila spritz with floral notes and juicy citrus for warm-weather refreshment.

Shaken Hands

A tequila-forward take on a modern classic.

Sleepwalker

This coffee and tequila cocktail can be prepared chilled or hot depending on your mood or the weather.

Tequila Spritz

A batched tequila cocktail that finds a happy place between sangria and spritz.

Tiger’s Claw

Flavors of coffee and cinnamon add depth to this tropical highball by Erick Castro for Gilly’s House of Cocktails in San Diego.