Do you know just how much a bottle of tequila has to offer your bar? It’s so much more than simply serving shots.
For venue and event managers looking to shake up their drink menu, we’ve rounded up the best tequila cocktails to delight every crowd.
From classics to new trends, these tequila drinks will add excitement to any night, giving guests an experience they’ll keep coming back for.
Classic Tequila Drinks Every Bar Should Serve
Every bar needs a selection of timeless tequila drinks. These drinks aren’t just classic—they’re crowd-pleasers that bring in customers expecting the best. So, make sure your bartenders know these by heart.
Margarita
The margarita is the classic cocktail that every tequila-loving guest expects to see on the menu in all cocktail bars.
Made with tequila, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur, it’s the perfect mix of sweet, tangy, and salty. It’s also one of the most popular bar drinks anywhere in the world.
Shake up a traditional margarita by serving it on the rocks or blended with ice for a frozen version. For the glass, a salted rim adds the signature touch, balancing the sweetness of the drink with a little extra flavor.
This may be one of the best tequila cocktails as is, but you can also shake it up with different flavors. Experiment by adding fruit purées like mango or strawberry, but remember that fresh lime juice is key to any true, refreshing margarita.
Tequila Sunrise
The tequila sunrise is not just a cocktail – it’s a show. With its beautiful layered colors resembling a sunrise, it’s made with tequila, orange juice, and a pour of grenadine syrup that sinks to the bottom. This all comes together to create the sunrise effect.
Serve it in a tall glass and avoid stirring once you’ve poured it – guests will love the visual experience of watching it settle. It’s easy to make and a guaranteed hit for anyone who enjoys a sweet, fruity cocktail.
You can try experimenting with the proportions or even add a dash of lemon-lime soda to give it a light fizz.
Paloma Cocktail
While less well-known than the classic margarita, the paloma is a classic gem that deserves a spot in any bar.
Made by mixing tequila with grapefruit soda (or fresh grapefruit juice and soda water) and a squeeze of lime, this drink is delightfully tart and refreshing. Rim the glass with salt to enhance the citrus flavors, or add a bit of agave nectar if your guests prefer a sweeter profile.
The paloma is especially popular in warm weather, making it a great choice for venues with outdoor service.
Mexican Mule
A tequila twist on the popular Moscow mule, the Mexican mule combines the zesty flavors of ginger beer, lime, and tequila. Serve it in a traditional copper mug to keep it icy cold and add a garnish of fresh mint or a lime wheel for an extra pop.
The spice from the ginger beer pairs wonderfully with the agave notes in the tequila, making it a unique and refreshing drink.
For a twist, you could add a splash of pineapple juice or a dash of bitters to give it even more depth.
Tequila Old Fashioned
This is a sophisticated cocktail that appeals to whisky fans. By replacing whisky with aged reposado or añejo tequila, the tequila old fashioned keeps its classic boldness while adding an agave warmth.
Muddle a sugar cube with bitters, add the tequila, and garnish with an orange twist or cherry.
The aged tequila brings subtle caramel and vanilla notes, making it a rich, complex sipper. This drink is perfect for those who like a strong drink without overwhelming sweetness – it's a refined way to showcase tequila’s versatility, and it’s perfect for any venue that takes tequila seriously.
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Trending Tequila Drinks for Modern Bars
Trying to keep up with trends? Here are some fresh, popular tequila cocktails that offer something fun and different.
Spicy Margarita
The spicy margarita brings a punch of heat to the classic. Muddle fresh jalapeño slices with lime juice before adding the tequila and orange liqueur, or use a homemade spicy syrup for a consistent level of heat.
This drink is a favorite with guests who crave a kick in their cocktails. It’s bold, flavorful, and adds a bit of adventure to any tequila menu.
For an extra touch, try infusing your tequila with chili peppers ahead of time, or rim the glass with Tajín for an added layer of flavor.
Tequila Espresso Martini
The espresso martini is definitely having a moment. So, why not shake this trendy cocktail up by replacing the vodka with tequila?
Made by shaking tequila with fresh espresso, coffee liqueur, and a hint of simple syrup, it’s the perfect balance of smooth, rich coffee flavors and tequila’s warm agave notes.
Serve it in a chilled martini glass and garnish with a few coffee beans on top for that classic touch.
This drink works well as an after-dinner cocktail or a sophisticated pick-me-up. It’s ideal for guests who want a bit of caffeine with a smooth kick.
Mezcal Margarita
The mezcal margarita is a trendy twist that swaps part of the tequila with mezcal for a smoky, earthy profile.
It’s made like a traditional margarita but includes mezcal’s signature smoke, giving it a bold edge. This drink appeals to those looking for something a bit more adventurous.
Consider garnishing it with a grilled lime wheel to emphasize the smoky undertones.
Tequila Smash
The tequila smash combines tequila with fresh mint, lime, and a touch of sugar for a simple yet refreshing drink.
Muddle mint leaves with lime juice and sugar, add ice, then top with tequila and a splash of soda. The result is a light, summery cocktail that’s perfect for warm days. For an extra kick, add a few slices of fresh cucumber or jalapeño.
Tequila Negroni
For fans of bitter flavor profiles, the tequila negroni is a must-try. This cocktail replaces gin with tequila, combining it with Campari and sweet vermouth for a sophisticated, bitter-forward drink.
Stirred, not shaken, the tequila negroni is served over ice with an orange twist, showcasing its deep red color. It’s perfect for guests who enjoy an aperitif-style cocktail, and it adds an unexpected tequila option for those who might not think to pair it with bitter liqueurs.
Ranch Water
Ranch water has surged in popularity lately, especially with the rise of wellness-conscious drinkers.
Made simply with tequila, fresh lime juice, and sparkling water, it’s a low-calorie, refreshing cocktail. It’s also easy to customize with flavored sparkling water or a hint of grapefruit.
Must-Have Tequilas for Your Bar
To create a great tequila menu, you need more than just quality cocktail recipes – you need quality tequila. Here are a few essential types.
Blanco Tequila
Blanco tequila is unaged, capturing the purest flavors of the agave plant.
It’s bright, with notes of citrus and pepper, making it perfect for cocktails like margaritas and palomas.
Because of its purity, Blanco tequila mixes seamlessly with other ingredients without overpowering them. Stock a reliable Blanco for cocktail bases and a higher-end option for sipping or premium cocktails.
Reposado Tequila
Reposado tequila is aged in oak barrels for a few months, giving it a smoother, rounded flavor with hints of vanilla and caramel. It’s a versatile tequila that can be used in both cocktails and enjoyed on its own.
For cocktails that benefit from a bit more complexity, like the tequila old-fashioned or spicy margarita, reposado tequila brings a richer profile.
Añejo Tequila
Añejo tequila is aged for at least a year, resulting in a deep, golden color and a smooth, complex flavor.
With notes of caramel, oak, and sometimes chocolate, it’s best enjoyed as a sipper or in bold cocktails where it can shine.
Añejo tequilas bring a luxurious option to your menu. It appeals to guests who appreciate more sophisticated drinks.
Mezcal
Mezcal is often smoky and earthy, adding a unique twist to tequila cocktails. It pairs especially well with citrus, spice, and herbal ingredients, and is a versatile addition to any bar.
Mezcal’s boldness appeals to adventurous guests who want a bit more complexity in their cocktails, like a mezcal margarita or even a tequila negroni.
Extra Añejo Tequila
Extra Añejo tequilas are aged for over three years, offering a rich, smooth flavor profile with deep notes of oak, chocolate, and spice. They’re best served neat, like a fine whiskey.
This tequila appeals to true connoisseurs. It’s an impressive addition to any high-end bar.
Seasonal Tequila Drinks for Your Bar Menu
Shake up your menu with these seasonal tequila drinks. They bring in fresh flavors for every time of year, keeping your venue exciting.
Winter: Tequila Hot Chocolate
Warm and cozy, the tequila hot chocolate combines rich hot chocolate with añejo tequila.
Stir in a splash of tequila, top with whipped cream, and garnish with chocolate shavings or a dash of cinnamon.
The warmth of the tequila and the creaminess of the chocolate make it a comforting winter choice. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings or special winter-themed events.
Spring: Tequila Mojito
For spring, the tequila mojito brings a light and refreshing twist to the classic mojito. Muddle fresh mint and lime with a bit of sugar, then add tequila, ice, and soda water.
It’s a bright, crisp drink that celebrates the fresh flavors of spring. This cocktail is perfect for patio seating and events welcoming the warmer months.
Summer: Watermelon Margarita
The watermelon margarita is the ultimate summer refresher. Blend fresh watermelon with tequila, lime juice, and a touch of agave for a sweet, hydrating twist. Serve it over ice with a salted or Tajín-rimmed glass to complement the fruitiness.
It’s colorful, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for any summer event.
Autumn: Spiced Tequila Cider
This autumn-inspired cocktail combines tequila with apple cider, cinnamon, and nutmeg, creating a cozy drink ideal for cooler weather.
Heat the cider or serve it cold over ice with an apple slice garnish. It’s a great way to bring in seasonal flavors, perfect for autumn festivals or fall-themed events.
Festive Season: Cranberry Tequila Sour
Add a festive flair to your holiday menu with a cranberry tequila sour.
Shake tequila with cranberry juice, fresh lemon juice, and a dash of simple syrup, then strain over ice. The cranberry gives it a seasonal twist, making it a bright and cheery cocktail for holiday parties and New Year’s celebrations.
How to Create a Signature Tequila Drink
Creating a signature tequila drink can set your venue apart, attract more guests, and give you a memorable “house” drink. Here’s how to get started.
1. Start With a Unique Flavor Profile
Think about the flavors you want to highlight. Consider popular pairings like citrus, spice, or even savory notes, then add your own twist.
Fresh herbs like basil, rosemary, or thyme can add depth, while exotic fruits or spices can make the drink feel exclusive.
Choose a flavor that complements tequila’s agave notes and reflects your venue’s decor, theme, and vibe.
2. Choose the Right Tequila
The choice of tequila affects the drink’s entire profile. Blanco tequila works well with fresh, fruity flavors, while Reposado or Añejo adds smooth, rich notes that can elevate a more complex cocktail.
Using a high-quality tequila ensures a smoother finish, which is important in a drink you’ll call your own.
3. Add a Special Ingredient
Adding a unique ingredient can make a signature drink memorable.
It might be an infused syrup (like chili honey or hibiscus), a unique garnish (like a grilled citrus slice), or even a smoky mezcal float. These small touches make the cocktail feel personal and can help with branding.
4. Perfect the Presentation
Appearance matters, so take time to make your signature drink look impressive.
Use a unique style of glassware or add garnishes that make it photo-worthy – think edible flowers, salted rims with chili powder, or even a dash of color with fruit slices. Guests enjoy sharing “signature” drinks on social media, which will give your bar extra visibility.
5. Give It a Catchy Name
A catchy name can make your signature tequila drink more memorable. Consider naming it after something related to your venue or location, a famous event, or even a fun play on words with “tequila.”
A name that sticks is likely to be ordered again and can help make your bar’s cocktail list feel unique.
Non-Alcoholic Tequila-Inspired Drinks
With the rise of mocktails, having non-alcoholic tequila-inspired drinks on your menu appeals to guests who aren’t drinking but still want a great experience.
Many companies now offer non-alcoholic “spirits” that mimic the flavor of tequila. These alternatives are typically made with botanical extracts and spices that resemble tequila’s notes. Using these non-alcoholic options lets you create zero-proof versions of any popular tequila cocktails. Simply swap the tequila for the non-alcoholic version.
If you can’t find a non-alcoholic “tequila” base, combine citrus juices like lime or grapefruit with a bit of agave syrup. This combination mimics the tart and slightly sweet profile of tequila, allowing you to create refreshing drinks that taste familiar to tequila lovers.
You could also create a non-alcoholic margarita by combining lime juice, orange juice, and agave syrup, then shake it with ice and serve it in a salt-rimmed glass. Garnish with a lime wheel for that classic Margarita feel.
Pricing Strategies for Tequila Drinks
Setting the right prices for tequila drinks is crucial for balancing profit margins and happy customers. Here are a few strategies to consider.
Price Based on Tequila Quality
Use the quality of tequila to determine pricing tiers.
For example, a drink with Blanco tequila might be priced lower than one with Reposado or Añejo. Reserve the highest price points for drinks with premium or extra añejo tequilas.
Offering a range allows guests to select options that fit their budget while giving your bar a chance to upsell premium choices.
Bundle With Limited-Time Specials
Specials are a great way to attract attention and drive sales, especially during off-peak times.
Offer happy hour margaritas or discounts on palomas and other tequila cocktails to bring in early-evening guests. Bundling tequila cocktails with popular appetizers can also increase both food and drink sales.
Use Signature Cocktails for Premium Pricing
Signature tequila drinks allow you to charge a higher price because they’re exclusive to your bar.
Highlighting a unique ingredient or house-made mixer can justify it as premium. Be sure to market it as a must-try, especially for special events or peak times, and present the drink as a memorable experience worth the price.
Conclusion
These are some of the best tequila cocktail options for all kinds of venues. While you don’t need to serve an extensive list, offering a few interesting tequila drinks at bar venues can be a great way to ramp up sales and keep your guests excited.
If you run a venue, you’ll also need to use the right venue management software to make things run a lot smoother. Watch a demo for Perfect Venue to see how the all-in-one platform can transform your operations.
