Trip Ideas

El Paso: Birthplace of the Margarita

Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey's
Photo by Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey’s
Los Bandidos de Carlos & Mickey's
1310 Magruder St.
(915) 778-3323 

The “Texas-sized” margarita from Los Bandidos de Carlos and Mickey’s says all that you need to know about it in its name. Limited to one per customer, this massive margarita takes on both classic, as well as bold flavored recipes, with big results. Enjoy it with their fresh chips and salsa and impressive bar.

Hours of Operation

Sun: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Mon: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tue: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Wed: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Thu: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Fri: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Sat: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Julio's Mexican Food
Photo by Julio’s Café Corona
Julio's Mexican Food
8050 Gateway Blvd. East
(915) 591-7676 

Julio’s Mexican Food originated across the border in Juárez, the home of the margarita. It’s fitting that their massive margaritas are often touted as the best in town. Settle in with some familiar, highly praised classic Mexican cuisine, live music and many unique and traditional takes on the classic drink. With an extensive selection of margarita flavors and combinations, you’ll never get bored. The Jalapeno Margarita is concocted with jalapenos, your choice of tequila and cilantro. The rink is packed with flavor and a sure win for those who can handle the heat.

Hours of Operation

Sun: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Mon: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tue: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Wed: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Thu: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Fri: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM Sat: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

L&J Cafe
Photo by L&J Café
L&J Cafe
3622 E. Missouri Ave.
(915) 566-8418 

As one of the oldest family-owned establishments on this list, it’s only fitting that L&J Cafe serves some of the most well-respected food and drinks in town. With enchiladas that are to die for, it’s widely agreed that L&J is a cornerstone for quality Tex-Mex meals in El Paso, including immaculately made classic margaritas. If you don’t try L&J Cafe at least once during your time in El Paso, you’re seriously missing out.

Hours of Operation

Sun: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Mon: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Tue: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Wed: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Thu: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Fri: 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM Sat: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Cantina Malolam
Photo by Cantina Malolam
Cantina Malolam
5001 N. Mesa St.
(915) 875-8670 

Malolam takes it up a notch with a few margaritas that are nothing short of exceptional. By exceptional we mean they evade the usual margarita requirements. The Mint Jamaica Margarita pairs fresh hibiscus, mint and fresh limes. The full-flavored drink sets the mood for Malolam’s inventive tacos, street dogs and tortas.

Hours of Operation

Sun: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM Mon: Closed Tue: Closed Wed: Closed Thu: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM Fri: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM Sat: 11:00 AM - 2:00 AM

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