Friday is National Tequila Day — yes, that is a real day, and it's time to celebrate. When you think about tequila, often margaritas are the first thing to come to mind.
But what if you want to break out of that cycle of "salt or no salt" or "frozen or on the rocks"?
We did the hard work of drinking our way through the city to find the best bets for tequila, outside of the margarita glass.
Ford Fry's latest hot spot in the Krog Street Market is hitting it on every level. Queso fundido, nachos that have us dreaming about the next visit, and an incredibly well-done cocktail program.
Of course, you'll get perfectly made margaritas here, but give the Texas Star a shot. Centennario Rosangel, St. Germain, ruby red grapefruit and lime juice combine for a refreshing cocktail that has just the right amount of kick.
If you want something a little more adventurous, why not add some olives to the mix with the Superita? It's Herradura Double Reposado, Royal Combier, lime juice, orange juice, salt and citrus marinated olives, served up Texas-style.
The Pinewood in Decatur has a cocktail list that is heads above almost anywhere else in Atlanta. Julian is a force to be reckoned with behind the bar and there is no way you're leaving without a great cocktail.
For a little taste of Mexican flavors, go with the Bebida De Los Muertos, made with Olmeca Altos tequila, Cocchi americano, Pierre Ferrand dry curaçao, lemon, red pepper and hopped-grapefruit bitters.
It's spicy. It's bitter. It's perfect.
If you don’t want to deal with any of the mixers and get straight to the good stuff, check out the tequila list at Bone Garden? They have curated a world class list of some mighty fine tequilas. Sip on them straight or with some ice. Just let them guide you.
Want to really get educated on tequila? Keep an eye out for Bone Garden’s tequila classes. They will guide you through tasting different styles and will feed you a five-course meal. The classes will run you $45 and the next one is Saturday, July 25.
With the recently revamped cocktail menu, new bar manager Alexandra Michaels is taking the beverage program to new levels.
One of the most refreshing drinks on the list is the Ethereality. It's made with Cimarron Blanco Tequila, Strawberry-Rhubarb Maceration, Lime Juice, Sea Salt, Basil Tincture. It tastes just like a southern summer afternoon.
If you want to step it up just a little, try the Hot & Bothered. It's made with tequila's smokier cousin, mezcal, along with aged white rum, luxardo, lemon and arbol chili simple syrup.
