The 5 Best Margaritas

A good margarita strikes a balance between the brightness of citrus, the character of tequila and just enough sweetness to bring everything together. Of course, there's plenty of room for creativity, with spicy peppers, fresh fruit and smoky mezcal adding new dimensions to the classic cocktail. From downtown rooftops to slope-side bars and neighborhood cantinas, the Best of the Boat 2026 showcases the Yampa Valley's varied approaches to this Mexican favorite.

Salt & Lime

Handcrafted margaritas are a specialty at Salt & Lime, a modern Mexican restaurant and rooftop bar on Lincoln Avenue in downtown Steamboat Springs. The bar uses 100% blue agave tequilas, fresh-squeezed lime juice and house-made agave sweeteners to create classic margaritas alongside spicy jalapeño variations, mezcal-based cocktails and rotating seasonal fruit combinations. Available on the rocks or frozen, the drinks can be enjoyed in the dining room or on the restaurant's open-air rooftop deck.

Fiesta Jalisco

Traditional Mexican flavors extend to the margarita menu at Fiesta Jalisco, a family-owned restaurant in Steamboat Springs' Central Park Plaza area. The bar serves classic margaritas prepared with tequila, triple sec and citrus juices, along with premium versions featuring reposado and añejo tequilas. Strawberry, mango and other fruit-flavored selections provide additional variety, while generous portions and distinctive glassware add to the presentation. Margaritas complement the restaurant's menu of fajitas, enchiladas, burritos and other Mexican favorites.

Taco Cabo

Fresh ingredients and a laid-back atmosphere define the margarita experience at Taco Cabo, a casual taqueria along the Yampa River in downtown Steamboat Springs. The bar prepares its cocktails with fresh lime juice, organic agave and premium tequilas rather than relying on commercial mixes. Guests can choose from traditional margaritas, spicy jalapeño and habanero variations, smoky mezcal creations and specialty pitchers. During warmer months, the outdoor riverfront patio and lawn provide an inviting setting for enjoying a drink with tacos.

Los Locos

Margaritas and après-ski gatherings go hand in hand at Los Locos, a tacos-and-tequila destination at the base of Steamboat Ski Resort. The bar combines fresh lime juice, triple sec and a selection of agave tequilas and mezcals to prepare its signature cocktails. Traditional margaritas share the menu with jalapeño-spiced versions and rotating fruit infusions, giving guests several options to accompany street tacos and chips. Its Ski Time Square location makes it a convenient stop after a day on the mountain.

Lupita's Cantina

A neighborhood atmosphere and scratch-made cocktails make Lupita's Cantina a margarita destination in Oak Creek. Located on Main Street, the Mexican restaurant prepares its margaritas with fresh citrus juices, agave nectar and quality tequilas, often finished with a traditional salted rim. The drink selection includes classic house margaritas, premium tequila options and seasonal fruit variations available by the glass or pitcher. Paired with tacos and regional Mexican dishes, the cocktails contribute to the cantina's relaxed South Routt County dining experience.

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