While you might not be able to go on that Cabo beach vacation this summer, everyone can still have a little taste of Mexico with National Tequila Day on July 24. Several local restaurants, from Back Bay all the way to Burlington, are also joining in on the festivities with their own agave plant concoctions. Say “no way Jose” to Jose Cuervo, as these specialty tequila drinks will introduce you to a new world of cocktails, margaritas and other kicky beverages.
Yellow Door Taqueria
Those really looking for an all-out celebration on National Tequila Day should definitely head to Yellow Door’s grand opening on the same day. Located in the Lower Mills area of Dorchester, the kitchen will whip up south of the border favorites like a la carte tacos, ceviche and guacamole galore. And, obviously, several signature tequila options. Try the classic “Paloma” made with Altos Reposado tequila and grapefruit soda with a lime and salt garnish. Looking to get a little devlish? Sip on the “El Diablo” made from Maestro Dobel tequila and ginger beer.
2297 Dorchester Ave., Dorchester
Lolita Cocina & Tequila Bar
Satisfy your margarita craving 365 days a year at this spicy downtown favorite. Lolita also offers specialty tequila cocktails as well, meaning everyone can wind down with a different type of drink in hand. The usually non-alcoholic “Watermelon Hibiscus” cocktail is served with a shot of tequila for a truly unique experience, while frozen margaritas like the “Frolita” should cool you down from that notorious Boston humidity.
271 Dartmouth St., Boston, lolitatequilabars.com
The Hawthorne
Turns out you don’t even have to find a Mexican joint to enjoy delectable tequila libations. Assistant bar director Jared Sadoian “spends his free time visiting Mexican tequila and mezcal distilleries…bringing back agave spirits and expertise to share,” according to a statement. Make sure to order the “Adelita” which features Leguas Reposado tequila and the Italian aperitif Cocchi Americano.
500A Commonwealth Ave., Boston, thehawthornebar.com
Waypoint
Created by the head chef at the subterranean hotspot Alden and Harlow, Waypoint connects to its New England roots with fresh seafood fare. The nautically-themed “Sea Level” incorporates absinthe vert with nori, or seaweed, tequila with cucumbers and lime for the perfectly green cocktail.
1030 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, waypointharvard.com
Lone Star Taco Bar
It wouldn’t be right unless we ended a tequila round-up on a Mexican restaurant, and the Lone Star Taco Bar is certainly one of the town’s best. Their Allston and Cambridge locations have over 10 tequila cocktails (not including seasonal offerings) made from a comprehensive selection that also includes mezcal. One of our favorites is the Mexican Happy Meal, which comes with a blanco tequila shot and an accompanying sangrita as well as a pint of Modelo Especial.
479 Cambridge St., Boston, lonestar-boston.com