5 Margaritas You Have to Try in Downtown Cincinnati

Looking for great margaritas in downtown Cincinnati? Enjoy these downtown favorites and enjoy the fresh, crisp flavors of this classic favorite.

margharitas at Bakersfield
Margaritas at Bakersfield OTR

Bakersfield OTR

Located on Vine Street in Over the Rhine, Bakersfield is one of my favorite places for drinks (and food). Their margarita arrived in a salt rimmed glass Ball jar, with lots of ice and a lime garnish. This one packed a punch! One was all I needed.

Bakersfield is located in OTR. I should add that they can have a wait on certain days so call ahead if that’s important. Bakersfield is close to streetcar stops so that’s a good option if you’re already downtown and have other places to visit.
Address: 1213 Vine Street; website


margaritas at Taqueria Mercado in Cincinnati

Taqueria Mercado

This place never disappoints! They have a huge menu, full of authentic Mexican dishes. Honestly, it’s one of my favorite choices for lunch downtown.

The margarita was delicious – on the sweeter side of those we tried so if that’s your thing, this is your drink!

This spot is just a block north of the Aronoff Center and on the same side of the street.
Address: 100 E 8th Street; website


Margarita at Lalo in cincinnati

Lalo

Lalo is a hidden gem and a great margarita spot! They have four different margaritas to choose from – Perfect Margarita (picutured above), Lalo Margarita, Smokie Mescal Margarita, and a Skinny Margarita.

Lalo serves up food that’s a fusion of Asian and Mexican… and, believe it or not, it’s a GREAT combo! Our dining neighbor had his “Mongolian Fajita Plate” delivered while we were there and I can tell you that it had every head in the place turning when that came out. I’m also looking forward to trying their Cuban Banh-Mi (yes, you read that right).

They’re a great stop for just a drink (they have a full bar) or to enjoy something from their extensive menu as a full meal.

Lalo is located around the corner from the Aronoff Center.
Address: 709 Main Street


Margaritas at Nada in Cincinnati

Nada

Located right next to the Aronoff Center, Nada is a feast for the eyes and the palate! If you’d like to just have a margarita, belly up to the bar and enjoy the scenery. Current choices include Summertime Sabbatical (pictured above), La Bomb-A, Cerveza Paloma, Nadarita, and Suprema.

Dinner and lunch options are great here too. Their butternut squash soup is one of my favorite soups in the city. They have everything from chips and guac to tacos to salad and soup to ceviche and braised pork.

Nada is located right next to the Aronoff Center (on the south side).
Address: 600 Walnut Street


Margarita at Mazunte downtown

Mazunte Centro

This one! I’m going to be honest here and tell you I was initially disappointed to find that their margarita comes in a plastic cup. But don’t let that fool you – this is a first class margarita! In fact, it was my favorite of all 5 margaritas!

Mazune Centro is an off-shoot of the very popular Mazunte restaurant that’s located in Madisonville (so good!). This spot is smaller but they do offer seating if you’d like to enjoy a meal… and I suggest that you do! If you’re looking for a snack, the guac and freshly made tortillas (see pic above) hit the spot!

Mazunte Centro is located on Main Street, just around the corner from The Aronoff Center.
Address: 607 Main Street

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About the Author
Bridgett Raffenberg
My name is Bridgett Raffenberg and I am the creator of 365Cincinnati. I've been uncovering and sharing all of the best things to do in Cincinnati since 2010. I enjoy exploring new spots, discovering local events, and meeting the people who call Cincinnati home!

2 thoughts on “5 Margaritas You Have to Try in Downtown Cincinnati”

  1. Hi Larry, We chose restaurants that were easily accessible to The Aronoff Center for this piece.

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