Tommy’s Margarita

Created in the early 1990s by Julio Bermejo at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco, Tommy’s Margarita has become the modern standard for tequila cocktails. By replacing orange liqueur with agave syrup, it highlights the natural flavour of tequila and gives the drink a clean, balanced sweetness. It’s a lighter, more authentic evolution of the Margarita and a must-know for anyone who enjoys tequila-based drinks like the Paloma or Tequila Sunrise.

  • Prep Time:
  • Total Time:
  • Servings: 1
  • Type: Cocktail
  • Units: 2.2

Equipment

  • rocks glass

Ingredients

  • 60 ml 100% agave tequila (blanco)
  • 30 ml fresh lime juice
  • 15 ml agave syrup
  • Ice cubes
  • Lime wheel

Instructions

  1. Add the tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup into a shaker with ice
  2. Shake well until chilled
  3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with ice
  4. Garnish with a lime whee
Tommy’s Margarita was created in 1990 by Julio Bermejo at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco and is now recognised on the official IBA cocktail list as a modern classic.

FAQ

What makes Tommy’s Margarita different from a classic Margarita?

The Margarita includes triple sec or Cointreau for sweetness, while Tommy’s Margarita uses agave syrup instead, giving it a purer tequila flavour and a smoother finish.

What type of tequila is best for Tommy’s Margarita?

A 100% agave blanco tequila works best. Reposado tequila adds depth, similar to the richer notes found in the Oaxaca Old Fashioned.

Can I make a frozen version of Tommy’s Margarita?

Yes, simply blend the same ingredients with crushed ice. For another frozen-style cocktail, try the tropical Piña Colada.

Is Tommy’s Margarita strong?

It’s moderately strong at around 2.2 units – lighter than a Negroni but stronger than a long drink like the Paloma.

What other tequila cocktails are similar?

If you like Tommy’s Margarita, you might enjoy the Tequila Sunrise, the grapefruit-flavoured Paloma, or the spicy Bloody Maria.

Please note that the units field is an estimation, and will vary depending on the type and quantity of alcohol used. Please drink responsibly and legally.
FacebookXPinterest