Best Margarita Spots on the Santa Fe Margarita Trail
Santa Fe is renowned for its margaritas, a cornerstone of local culture since the 1970s. The city pioneered tequila imports from Mexico, blending it with lime juice for the perfect sip alongside New Mexican cuisine.
Santa Fe elevated this tradition with the Santa Fe Margarita Trail, launched on Cinco de Mayo 2016. Explore 45 participating spots, each offering a unique signature margarita crafted by expert mixologists.
Obtain a Santa Fe Margarita Trail Passport for $3 at the Visitor Center or download the app for $3 on your smartphone. Here are standout recommendations to kick off your adventure.
The Shed
Established over 60 years ago, The Shed is a Santa Fe institution celebrated for its authentic New Mexican dishes, including award-winning chile from The Santa Fe Reporter's "Best of Santa Fe." Pair red chile enchiladas with the Roca Coin Margarita, featuring Roca Patrón Silver tequila and Cointreau.
La Fonda on the Plaza
Nestled near the historic Plaza, La Fonda offers three Margarita Trail specialties. At La Fiesta Lounge, savor the Tamarindo Margarita with Alderwood smoked salt rim. For sunset views, try the Mana Margarita—a mango blend with lime and tiki bitters—at the rooftop Bell Tower Bar. In La Plazuela, enjoy the Smokey Margarita under wrought-iron chandeliers, paired with tableside guacamole.
El Farol
Praised by The New York Times as one of the world's best bars, El Farol pairs Spanish tapas with inventive cocktails like the Smoking Bull: Kimo Sabe Mezcal, cilantro, simple syrup, lime, and Chimayó red chile salt rim. Elevate your visit with the Flamenco dinner show by National Institute of Flamenco artists.
Float Cafe and Bar
Inside Meow Wolf's House of Eternal Return, Float Cafe and Bar offers respite with creative drinks like the "meowgarita." Infused with butterfly pea flower tea and crowned with cotton candy, it's a whimsical boozy delight amid the multiverse exhibit.
