

“We get all of our produce at the West Side Market,” says owner Shelley Underwood. Why we love it: Freshness is key to this classic Ohio City restaurant’s fresh pineapple, mint mango and cucumber margaritas ($7.50). Try this: The jalapeno-cilantro margarita ($9) offers a signature spicy kick and homemade sour. Why we love it: Inspired by America's hippest taco joints, this roja-tinted eatery is a transformative taco experience with neon decor, spicy bites, more than 50 top-notch tequilas and 18 handcrafted cocktails. Try this: The 16-ounce margarita to go ($20), offered in flavors such as honey-ginger and hibiscus, is perfect for takeout - just shake and pour.

A dozen margarita flavors make for great tasting flights. Why we love it: For nine years, this tamaleria, Momocho's casual Lakewood sister, has provided an approachable menu of Mexican fusion dishes, such as vegan tamale tater tots ($6) and flautas ($20). Try this: Get a physics lesson from the Coronitas ($12.99), in which an upside-down mini beer slowly seeps into a strawberry or lime margarita. If you're feeling crazy, share the 84-ounce tower margarita ($39.99) with friends. Why we love it: This funky Mexican joint is our suburban go-to for traditional margaritas and authentic, approachable entrees. Try this: Rimmed with Tajin salt, the all-natural margarita ($14.50) is made with agave nector fresh-squeezed lime, lemon and orange and your choice of tequila. Each location boasts weekly drink specials, including jumbo margs and sangria bottles. Why we love it: This low-key dinner spot has a drink for every palate, from top-shelf concoctions to draft beer. “We just have fun with it.” Try this: The Marigold ($9) is made with strawberry-pear puree, lemonade, Patron, Cointreau and Cazadores Reposado. “If it works and we love it, then we put it on the menu,” says Heather Wilde, operations and beverage director. Why we love it: Complete with 50-plus tequilas and more than 10 different takes on the classic margarita, this regional chain headquartered in Cleveland holds monthly margarita specials concocted by staff. Try this: The blackberry mint margarita ($13) is muddled with gold tequila.

Along with a selection of Mexican beer on tap, the restaurant boasts a collection of more than 50 tequilas perfect for mixing into margaritas or sipping straight. Why we love it: This Gordon Square spot specializes in street-style tacos and handcrafted margaritas. Try this: Pineapple jalapeno margaritas ($12) feature a house-made sour mix. Why we love it: Arepas (South American sandwiches on corn maize dough) are the draw, but visit on Tuesdays when $6 margaritas are offered. Try this: The Avo-Rita ($13) uses a house-made mix, pineapple, agave, Espolon Blanco, Cointreau, jalapeno, avocado and a lime salt rim to tiptoe close to perfection. Virgin versions, non-alcoholic pina coladas and a tequila take on the classic old fashioned ($13) offers something to every type of drinker. Why we love it: Flavored salt rims, sugar rims and house-made syrups, including pistachio, lavender, mango and habanero, take these margs to the next level. Whether you love a classic lime approach or a refreshing spicy kick with jalapeno, these Northeast Ohio restaurants are must-stops for margarita lovers.

Business Hall of Fame and Community Leader of the Year Awards.
