14. Taco Cabana
While you may believe that ordering a margarita is a reliable choice at any restaurant, Taco Cabana demonstrates that this isn't always true. This Texas-based chain, boasting over 140 locations, offers Mexican-inspired dishes in a relaxed setting. However, customer feedback on Yelp paints a rather grim picture of the chain's alcoholic beverages. For instance, one patron remarked, "First of all, the margarita tasted like something you use to clean a bathroom." This certainly doesn't cast the drink in a favorable light.
"Honestly, I wasn't impressed at all. After about 4-5 sips, it was salty and had a strange taste," recounted another customer who tried the mango margarita. Taco Cabana's menu also features lime, Mangonada, strawberry, and watermelon margaritas. In the past, the chain has ventured into more unconventional flavors like pistachio, but this option did not receive positive feedback. To make matters worse, one diner labeled their margarita as the worst they've ever had, although they did not specify which flavor they chose. Unfortunately, it appears that Taco Cabana's margaritas may be best left untouched.
13. Red Lobster
In light of Red Lobster's recent bankruptcy and numerous store closures, the future of the seafood restaurant chain is uncertain. However, one thing is evident: customer reviews consistently express dissatisfaction with the margaritas. The menu features a classic margarita made with Sauza Gold tequila, along with strawberry, peach, and raspberry variations, all of which can be served on the rocks or frozen. While this may sound enticing, customer feedback tells a different tale.
One Yelp reviewer noted, "The drinks were oddly watered down and had a faint medicinal taste, which is why this review is 4 stars instead of 5. I do not recommend the margarita flight." They also mentioned feeling nauseous after drinking. Many other patrons reported similar experiences with diluted margaritas, with some stating that the alcohol content was too low for their liking. Issues with frozen margaritas were also highlighted, including one reviewer who described their drink as mostly foam. With rumors of a potential new owner for Red Lobster, let's hope the drinks menu receives some much-needed attention soon—it certainly seems to be in dire need of improvement.
12. Applebee's Grill + Bar
With over 1,500 Applebee's locations across the country, there's a good chance you live near one (or more) of their restaurants. However, if you're considering stopping by for a quick margarita, you might want to reconsider. Customer feedback has been largely unfavorable, particularly regarding the drinks. On Yelp, numerous complaints highlight a common issue: taste. One reviewer noted, "The margarita mostly tasted like mix and sweet and sour; you could hardly detect any tequila." Others described the margarita as watered down, with one customer likening it to dirty water.
Applebee's features several variations of the classic cocktail, including passion fruit, mango, and strawberry flavors. However, not all flavors are equally appealing. For example, one Yelp user shared, "I ordered a cocktail called BLUE ALOHA MANA MARGARITA, which sounded enticing but tasted like an old mixture—just flat and gross." They also tried a frozen margarita but were similarly let down. Given that Applebee's occasionally offers a promotion where margaritas are just a dollar each, it's understandable that the quality may be compromised. Nonetheless, this promotion has allowed Applebee's to rank slightly higher than the bottom two chains, as if you're going to settle for a mediocre margarita, it might as well be affordable.
11. TGI Fridays
Part bar and part restaurant, TGI Fridays is a popular destination for a fun outing. This casual dining chain has 228 locations nationwide, offering a range of cocktails, beers, and classic American fare. However, if you're craving margaritas, be aware that TGI Fridays has faced significant quality control challenges. While some patrons have enjoyed their drinks, many others have been left dissatisfied. One Yelp reviewer remarked, "The 'happy hour' margarita was undrinkable (I can't remember the last time I left a drink untouched...)."
The restaurant features two main margarita options, with additional seasonal flavors available. Generally, customers have found the cocktails to be unbalanced. Some drinks were overly diluted with ice, leaving patrons wanting more, while others were lacking in tequila. One Yelp user shared, "I ordered a frozen margarita that was completely non-alcoholic," adding that, "the server offered to make me another one and returned with the same drink, now watered down with alcohol and not frozen." Another customer received a glass that was only half full. With these various issues arising, it appears that consistency is the chain's most significant challenge.
10. Chili's
Chili's reigns supreme in the casual dining Tex-Mex landscape, boasting locations in 49 states. The restaurant serves a mix of Mexican-inspired dishes and American classics, along with a diverse cocktail selection. With over 10 unique margarita varieties, some feature inventive names like Berry Shark Bite Marg and Spice-A-Rita. Unfortunately for fans of Chili's, online customer reviews often reflect a negative sentiment regarding the margaritas.
Some patrons found the drinks excessively sweet. One customer who ordered the Presidente Margarita commented on Yelp, "I think there was a full cup of sugar in each of these. I've never met a margarita I didn't want to finish, but this one I was fine leaving behind." Another reviewer described their margarita as "too sour sweet, with no hint of alcohol whatsoever." Others experienced similar issues, including one guest who couldn't detect the Patrón in their Patrón Margarita. On a brighter note, some reviewers praised the strawberry and blackberry margaritas, indicating that not all feedback is unfavorable.
9. On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina
Located in Texas, On The Border Mexican Grill & Cantina boasts 133 locations. Alongside its variety of tacos, fajitas, and enchiladas, patrons can choose from an array of margaritas. The menu includes the classic house margarita as well as uniquely named options like the Spicy Ghost 'Rita, Blue Lagoon Margarita, and the Borderita.
Customer feedback for the chain is quite mixed. Some diners appreciated the inventive margarita flavors, while others felt the classic recipe was executed flawlessly. However, not all reviews were favorable. One Yelp reviewer remarked, "The margarita was premade and tasted like cheap mix." Others noted that the drinks seemed to lack a crucial ingredient: tequila. Similarly, one customer commented, "My skinny margarita tasted off; I’m not sure if it was a misbalance of ingredients, but it was not enjoyable." With such a wide range of opinions, ordering these margaritas may feel like a gamble that isn't entirely worthwhile.
8. The Cheesecake Factory
With a menu boasting over 250 diverse dishes, the Cheesecake Factory offers a little something for everyone. It's no wonder that margaritas are also featured. However, while patrons rave about the cheesecake, the margaritas don't seem to garner the same enthusiasm. The drink is crafted from a classic blend of silver tequila, lime, and agave, with seasonal flavors occasionally available. Some customers have reported issues with quality control; one Yelp reviewer noted, "I took one sip of the margarita and it tasted like water, sugar with a little lime." Others complained that the drink was overly salty and lacked sufficient tequila.
Another significant concern among customers was the freshness of the margaritas. Reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with drinks that seemed pre-made rather than freshly mixed. One regular, who typically orders the Ultimate Margarita, remarked that their drink "came out as a cheap sour mix margarita instead of the delicious version made with Grand Marnier, lime juice, and agave nectar." The server mentioned that the recipe had been recently altered, much to the customer's dismay. While some reviewers didn't experience any issues with their margaritas, they were not particularly impressed either. As it stands, the margarita appears to be a weak point for the Cheesecake Factory.
7. Texas Roadhouse
While fans of Texas Roadhouse rave about their steaks, ribs, and sides, opinions on the chain's margaritas are more varied. The menu features an entire section devoted to these cocktails, offering customers plenty of choices. Options include margaritas infused with various fruit purées and juices, one made with spiced rum, and another that blends sangria with margarita mix. On the positive side, many patrons have praised the Legend, a margarita crafted with three different tequilas. "They prepare each one fresh upon ordering," noted a Legend fan on Yelp. "This was probably one of the best margaritas I've had in a long time!"
Conversely, several diners have reported disappointing experiences with the margaritas. "It was essentially a glass of sour mix. I could taste no alcohol, just sugar. Really let down," remarked one customer. Others specifically encountered issues with the frozen margaritas—one patron received a half-full glass, while another found their drink to be more liquid than slush. It’s clear that ordering a margarita at Texas Roadhouse can be a gamble.
6. Bonefish Grill
As its name implies, Bonefish Grill focuses on seafood offerings, featuring dishes such as its famous Bang Bang shrimp, mahi-mahi, and Maryland-style crab cakes. When it comes to beverages, the restaurant is particularly recognized for its martinis, but you can also find the popular Parker's Margarita, crafted with Grand Marnier and orange juice. The happy hour menu includes another margarita, made with Lunazul Blanco tequila, Cointreau, lime, and simple syrup.
While Bonefish Grill is celebrated as one of the leading seafood chains in the U.S., this reputation doesn't fully extend to its drink selections. Customer feedback on Yelp regarding the margaritas is varied, with reviews ranging from enthusiastic to critical. One pleased patron noted, "The margarita was fantastic, strong, and delicious with a unique twist on the classic recipe," and suggested enhancing it further by requesting Patrón. Another guest enjoyed the Parker's Margarita so much that they returned the following day for another. However, not all customers were impressed with the cocktails. Some expressed dissatisfaction with the house margarita mix, with one reviewer stating it was overly sweet. Nevertheless, despite a few negative comments, the positive feedback generally outweighs the criticisms.
5. Chuy's
Originating from Austin, Texas, Chuy's asserts that it serves Tex-Mex cuisine better than any other establishment. While this claim may be hard to substantiate, the chain is certainly known for its impressive cocktails. Chuy's features four varieties of margaritas, including a "Texas-sized" frozen margarita topped with a 12-ounce beer bottle. Many customers report that the margaritas generally meet expectations.
Patrons have lauded the margaritas for their robust flavor and perfect balance. One Yelp reviewer remarked, "The margaritas are the closest thing to what I had in Mexico; they are definitely the real deal," adding that the drinks are ideal for cooling off after enjoying spicy dishes. The frozen margaritas, in particular, received high praise, with one diner declaring it the best frozen drink they've had in ages. However, there appears to be some inconsistency among Chuy's locations, as a few customers have encountered issues with drink quality. Complaints about watered-down cocktails and excessive margarita mix can be found alongside the many positive reviews.
4. Olive Garden
While Olive Garden is often celebrated for its rich pasta dishes and endless breadsticks, the restaurant also features a variety of Italian-inspired cocktails. One standout is the signature Italian margarita, which blends Jose Cuervo Especial Silver tequila, triple sec, and amaretto. This unique mix has garnered positive reviews from patrons, with many taking to Yelp to share their enthusiasm. One delighted customer exclaimed, "I've discovered my new favorite drink! I prefer my margaritas not too sweet, and this one hit the mark. It comes with a shot of amaretto on the side, adding a surprisingly smooth and delightful almond aroma."
Additionally, Olive Garden offers a Strawberry Limoncello Margarita, crafted with Mi Campo Blanco tequila and Caravella limoncello. One guest, who was let down by their meal, described the margarita as the shining star of their dining experience. It's worth noting that the cocktail menu can change, and past margarita options, like the Cadillac Margarita, have received mixed reviews, with some finding it overly sweet. Given this feedback, it may be wise to opt for the reliable signature margarita if you're in the mood for a drink.
3. Outback Steakhouse
Margaritas might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Outback Steakhouse (you probably think of their delicious steaks and the iconic Bloomin' Onion). However, this Florida-based chain is known for crafting an excellent margarita, as noted by customer feedback. The menu features a variety of margarita choices, including the Agave 'Rita, Guava 'Rita, and the house 'Rita, which is made with Sauza Gold tequila. One Yelp reviewer raved, "Delicious! The combination of the salt rim, lime, and tequila was fantastic. It's always a winning mix."
Customers particularly enjoyed sampling different flavors with the margarita flight, presented on a boomerang-shaped tray. "The drinks were tasty and had a nice kick," one enthusiast shared. Another patron highlighted the blackberry and mango flavors from the flight, mentioning they perfectly satisfied their sweet cravings. Despite the overall positive feedback, some diners did encounter quality control issues with their drinks. For instance, one customer noted that their margarita was watered down, claiming it tasted more like juice than an alcoholic drink. However, given the abundance of favorable reviews, such incidents can likely be considered exceptions.
2. Yard House
With establishments in 26 states and Washington D.C., Yard House has established itself as a go-to destination for great beer, music, and food. Cocktails also deserve a mention, as patrons rave about the chain's margaritas. Among the various twists on the classic recipe, the Salted Watermelon Margarita has emerged as a standout favorite among reviewers. For many regulars, it’s their drink of choice. "The salted watermelon margarita was a perfect mix of sweet and tangy," one customer shared on Yelp, with others echoing that the drink's flavors are perfectly balanced.
Other flavors have also garnered praise from diners. "I tried the pink smoked dragon — the presentation was impressive, and it was a smoky yet sweet margarita," noted one Yelp reviewer. If you prefer something more traditional, the Grand Patrón Margarita has also received high marks, with customers describing it as expertly crafted. Overall, patrons found the margaritas to be both strong and delicious, solidifying Yard House as a top destination for cocktail enthusiasts.
1. P.F. Chang's
At last, we reveal our winner, and it's a surprising choice: P.F. Chang's. While the restaurant is primarily recognized for its Asian fusion dishes, it also boasts an impressive drink selection. Patrons online are enthusiastic about the chain's margaritas, praising the inventive flavor combinations and skilled preparation. One Yelp reviewer particularly highlighted the Rising Dragon, stating, "It's a unique take on the margarita with just the right balance of sweet and salty. Absolutely delicious!" This cocktail features Casa Noble Blanco tequila, pomegranate, lime, and agave, all topped with rosemary and black lava salt for a striking presentation.
In addition to the Rising Dragon, P.F. Chang's serves a traditional margarita made with Patrón, lime, and agave, along with a happy hour special that includes Blanco tequila, orange liqueur, lime, and sugar. One diner remarked, "I had a margarita that was perfectly strong enough to lift my spirits! A bit on the pricey side, but definitely worth it." Customers also appreciated the organic agave margarita, noting its careful mixing that resulted in a well-balanced drink. With such an abundance of positive feedback, P.F. Chang's truly excels in delivering consistently delightful margaritas.
Methodology
Numerous restaurants offer margaritas, and many of them are quite delicious. To refine our selection, we focused exclusively on U.S.-based chain restaurants that currently feature this drink on their menus. We then sifted through online customer reviews, only considering chains with a substantial number of reviews specifically about their margaritas. We examined what patrons had to say regarding the quality and balance of ingredients, the portion sizes, and their overall satisfaction with the drinks. Based on this information, we compiled our list of restaurants, ranking them from least to most favorable.
While this list is not exhaustive, we hope it helps you discover some new favorites or identify which margaritas to avoid. And remember, no matter where you choose to enjoy your margarita, please drink responsibly.
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