The margarita has deep Southwestern roots. At its simplest, the three-ingredient cocktail of tequila, triple sec, and lime thrives in Arizona, where locals consider it an unofficial state drink. This year, Sedona Center invites visitors and residents to raise a salt-rimmed glass in celebration of National Margarita Day on February 22.
At this family-owned retail and dining hub in Uptown Sedona, margarita lovers can explore inventive variations at four locally owned restaurants. Sedona Pizza Company puts a European spin on the classic with the Margarita Italiano, blending tequila, triple sec, lime, a splash of orange juice, and Amaretto Liqueur for a taste of La Dolce Vita. Canyon Breeze offers the Prickly Pear Margarita, featuring 3 Amigos Top Shelf Tequila, prickly pear cactus bloom puree, sweet and sour, triple sec, and a twist of lime, available by the pitcher for friends to share.
For those who like a little heat, Don Diego Mexican Cantina offers the Don Diego Spicy Margarita, mixing Astral Reposado Tequila with house-made jalapeño simple syrup, triple sec, and passion fruit puree, and garnishing with jalapeño and a Tajín rim. Finally, Open Range Grill & Tavern offers the Sedona Blue Sky Margarita, combining 3 Amigos Tequila, sweet and sour, triple sec, Blue Curacao, and a twist of lime – a tribute to the region’s sun-drenched skies.
Nestled in the heart of Uptown Sedona, Sedona Center brings together artisan boutiques, family-friendly dining, and city tours set against the backdrop of the town’s iconic red rocks. It’s the perfect place to sip, celebrate, and savor a local twist on a beloved classic. For more information, visit visitsedonacenter.com.
Here are a few Valley-based spots offering specials, too:
•Diego Pops is pouring $6 Diego Margaritas (on the rocks or frozen) all day. Made with 1800 Blanco tequila, triple sec, and house-made sweet and sour, it’s a refreshing classic that pairs perfectly with their chips, salsa, guacamole and their famous brussels sprouts nachos.
• Chef Joey Maggiore’s The Mexicano is a go-to destination for margarita fans around the Valley. From their Frozen Margarita Flight to the spicy Chiles Toreados margarita, there’s something for every margarita palate. The Mexicano keeps the fiesta going with locations in Phoenix and Chandler.
• Hash Kitchen is celebrating the brunch way with $5 margaritas all day on National Margarita Day. Their house recipe – tequila, lime juice, agave, and triple sec – delivers a classic flavor that elevates any meal.
• At Pita Jungle, guests can enjoy $5 house margaritas on special all day. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a refreshing sip while sampling Mediterranean favorites, including shareable tapas and signature dishes.
