Scottsdale's vibrant dining scene offers an incredible range of culinary experiences, and when it comes to finding the top Mexican restaurants in Scottsdale with margaritas, the choices are both diverse and delicious. Whether you're seeking a quiet, sophisticated evening with expertly crafted cocktails or a lively spot for unique taco creations and a margarita flight, this city delivers memorable Mexican fare for every palate and occasion.
At a Glance
- Discover Diverse Vibes: From upscale, chef-driven establishments to casual, street-food-inspired eateries and historic family-run gems.
- Match Your Margarita Mood: Find everything from classic lime and agave perfection to inventive fruit infusions, spicy concoctions, and extensive agave spirit lists.
- Navigate Regional & Fusion Flavors: Explore traditional Sonoran dishes, Central Mexican influences, Yucatan-inspired tacos, and innovative Latin American fusions.
- Plan for Any Occasion: Pinpoint the ideal spot for a romantic dinner, a bustling group gathering, a vegan-friendly outing, or a casual lunch.
Scottsdale's Culinary Spectrum: Blending Tradition with Innovation
Scottsdale's Mexican cuisine isn't a monolith; it's a dynamic tapestry woven from centuries-old traditions and bold, contemporary fusions. This variety showcases how deeply food traditions are intertwined with regional identities and cultural narratives. From recipes passed down through generations to modern interpretations that push boundaries, each restaurant tells a story. Understanding these nuances helps you appreciate the journey of flavors on your plate and in your glass. For a deeper dive into how culinary specifics define diverse food traditions, you can always Explore food traditions and culture.
The common thread through these distinct establishments, however, is an unwavering commitment to quality and a celebratory spirit that often finds its perfect expression in a well-made margarita.
Elevated Experiences: When Mexican Cuisine Meets Sophistication
Sometimes, the craving for Mexican food comes with a desire for an elegant atmosphere, nuanced flavors, and cocktails that are as thoughtfully crafted as the dishes. Scottsdale has several destinations that excel in this sophisticated niche.
The Mission: A Culinary Journey with Latin Flair
Nestled in Old Town (with a second location), The Mission is a testament to elevated Latin American cuisine, blending Mexican, Spanish, and Central/South American influences. Chef Carter, recently honored with the 2024 Food Pioneer Award, curates a menu where pecan and mesquite wood smoke infuse meats with rich flavor. Imagine starting with duck confit carnitas empanadas or savoring espresso churros to finish.
The Margarita Angle: While not explicitly detailing specific margaritas, The Mission's focus on innovative cocktails and its "Guac-tail" hour (offering dips, chips, and a bottle of wine for $20) suggests a sophisticated approach to drinks that complements its refined menu. Their inventive spirit translates to their broader beverage program, promising unique pairings for their distinctive dishes.
La Hacienda: Plush Seating and Tableside Drama
Located within a resort setting, La Hacienda offers a truly immersive experience with plush seating, beehive fireplaces, and high tops perfect for larger groups. This spot is renowned for its attention to detail, from the ambiance to the interactive elements of its service.
The Margarita Angle: While the specific margaritas aren't detailed, the restaurant's emphasis on high-quality ingredients and a luxurious experience extends to its bar program. Patrons can expect expertly crafted cocktails that perfectly complement signature dishes like the Filet a la Parrilla, a dish prestigious enough to be featured at the Governor’s dinner in Puebla, Mexico, or the Tampiqueña. Their tableside-crafted guacamole, with options like watermelon and chile ancho or sweet corn and cream, also speaks to a bespoke approach often mirrored in their cocktail creations. The sunset patio is an ideal spot to savor a drink while enjoying the upscale atmosphere.
Scottsdale Waterfront Eatery: Family Heritage, Elegant Twists
Tucked away on the Scottsdale Waterfront, this restaurant represents a family's culinary journey from Sonora, Mexico, influenced by experiences in Mexico City. The name itself reflects the strength of the family women, hinting at a deep cultural connection to their food. Their menu beautifully fuses northern and central Mexican dishes, offering unique and elegant twists.
The Margarita Angle: While not specified, the restaurant's commitment to "unique and elegant twists" on classic dishes, such as roasted bone marrow with elotes and microgreens, crunchy ribeye tacos, and seafood tostadas, strongly suggests a similar innovative approach to their beverage menu. Guests can anticipate refined margaritas that harmonize with sophisticated offerings, perhaps featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients or premium agave selections.
Mexican Steakhouse: A Feast for the Senses
This self-proclaimed Mexican steakhouse offers an opulent dining experience. Picture vines trailing across ceilings, Arabesque accents, rich marble, and wood, all setting the stage for live fire performers. It's an environment designed to impress and immerse guests in a vibrant, luxurious setting.
The Margarita Angle: In a venue so focused on a multisensory experience, the cocktail program is undoubtedly a key component. While specific margarita details aren't provided, a Mexican steakhouse of this caliber would surely feature a robust selection of margaritas, likely emphasizing high-quality tequilas and possibly unique, smoke-infused, or robust flavor profiles that stand up to their steak dishes. Expect a drink menu that matches the grandeur of its surroundings.
Vibrant & Casual Vibes: Tacos, Tequila, and Lively Times
Sometimes, the best Mexican food experience is one that's full of energy, color, and a sense of fun. Scottsdale also offers fantastic casual spots that don't skimp on flavor or creative margaritas.
Mexican Street-Influenced Spot: Funky, Vegan-Friendly, and Fearless Margaritas
This restaurant stands out with its funky Day of the Dead aesthetic and a playful "Three Amigos" humor woven throughout the decor. It's a fantastic choice for those seeking great vegan Mexican food, alongside over 20 taco varieties with diverse protein options.
The Margarita Angle: This is a go-to for margarita enthusiasts looking for adventure. They offer margarita flights, perfect for sampling, and the legendary chili-infused Death’s Door margarita, which even comes with a warning label – a testament to its fiery kick. If you're looking for innovative, bold, and perhaps spicy margarita experiences, this spot is a must-visit.
Cien Agaves: Old Town's Tequila Hub
Located right in the heart of Old Town, Cien Agaves is a casual, energetic spot with two patios, vibrant Mexican artwork, and rustic lighting. It masterfully combines authentic favorites with fresh twists, such as island shrimp tacos and delightful churro sundaes.
The Margarita Angle: The name says it all – "Cien Agaves" means "one hundred agaves." This restaurant boasts over 100 agave spirits and specializes in margaritas with mixers and juices crafted daily. This commitment to fresh, quality ingredients ensures a top-tier margarita experience. They even partner with the Trails + Tequila Tasting Tour, allowing guests to enjoy tacos and tequila while off-roading, highlighting their dedication to the full tequila experience.
Diego Pops: Yucatan Vibes and Playful Drinks
A local favorite, Diego Pops offers a laid-back Yucatan taco shack ambiance, making it a perfect casual haunt. Its playful menu is reasonably priced, featuring unique items like the Sonoran hot dog, alongside creative taco offerings.
The Margarita Angle: Diego Pops shines with cocktails featuring fresh guava, coconut water, and prickly pear. These vibrant, fruit-forward margaritas perfectly complement dishes like Brussels sprout nachos and flamin’ hot Cheeto dusted street corn, which deliver a spicy kick. It’s the ideal spot for refreshing, brightly flavored drinks that match its fun-loving atmosphere.
Timeless Traditions: Authenticity Through Generations
For those who cherish deep-rooted culinary heritage and classic flavors, one Scottsdale establishment stands as a testament to enduring tradition.
Authentic Mexican Restaurant (Established 1950s): A Scottsdale Staple
This restaurant has been a beloved Scottsdale staple since the 1950s, now managed by its third generation. Its focus remains squarely on authentic cuisine, with its signature tri-colored Mexican Flag enchiladas as a highlight. The colorful energy, friendly service, and a unique domed “blue room” with skylights and a large tropical fish tank create a consistently delicious and welcoming dining experience.
The Margarita Angle: While the specifics of their margarita menu aren't detailed, an establishment with such a long-standing commitment to authentic cuisine would undoubtedly offer classic, well-made margaritas that honor traditional recipes. Expect a straightforward, quality drink that complements their time-honored dishes, focusing on balance and flavor that has delighted patrons for decades.
Crafting Your Perfect Margarita Experience: A Practical Playbook
Choosing the right Mexican restaurant with the perfect margarita in Scottsdale comes down to what kind of experience you're seeking.
Matching Your Margarita Mood
- For the Margarita Adventurer: Head to the Mexican Street-Influenced Spot for flights and the infamous Death's Door margarita.
- For the Agave Aficionado: Cien Agaves is your destination, with over 100 agave spirits and daily fresh-crafted margaritas.
- For Fresh & Fruity: Diego Pops offers refreshing guava, coconut water, and prickly pear infused cocktails.
- For Classic & Refined: Expect top-shelf, well-balanced margaritas at La Hacienda or the Authentic Mexican Restaurant (Established 1950s).
- For Innovative & Chef-Driven Cocktails: The Mission and Scottsdale Waterfront Eatery will impress with their creative beverage programs.
Choosing by Occasion
- Romantic Dinner/Special Occasion: The Mission, La Hacienda, Mexican Steakhouse, or Scottsdale Waterfront Eatery offer the ambiance and menu for an elevated experience.
- Lively Group Outing: Cien Agaves, Mexican Street-Influenced Spot, or Diego Pops provide vibrant settings and shareable options.
- Casual Lunch/Dinner: Diego Pops and the Authentic Mexican Restaurant (Established 1950s) offer relaxed atmospheres and great food without pretension.
Dietary Considerations
- Vegan-Friendly: The Mexican Street-Influenced Spot is specifically highlighted for its "great vegan Mexican food" and extensive taco varieties. While other restaurants may have options, this one makes it a point of pride.
Quick Answers to Common Questions
Q: Which spot is best for a romantic dinner with great margaritas?
A: The Mission or La Hacienda would be excellent choices. Both offer sophisticated atmospheres, exceptional food, and a high-quality beverage program to set the mood. The Scottsdale Waterfront Eatery also offers an elegant, unique experience.
Q: Where can I find great vegan Mexican food alongside my margarita?
A: The Mexican Street-Influenced Spot is explicitly recommended for its wide array of vegan Mexican food options, including over 20 taco varieties, making it a top pick for plant-based diners.
Q: Are there places with really unique or spicy margarita flavors?
A: Absolutely. The Mexican Street-Influenced Spot features a chili-infused Death’s Door margarita with a warning label, and Diego Pops offers unique prickly pear and guava cocktails. The Mission and Scottsdale Waterfront Eatery are also strong contenders for innovative, chef-driven drink menus.
Q: What's the best option for a large group gathering looking for a fun time?
A: Cien Agaves in Old Town with its two patios and lively atmosphere, or the Mexican Street-Influenced Spot with its funky decor and diverse menu, would be fantastic for a group. La Hacienda also offers high tops ideal for groups in a plush setting.
Q: Where can I get a truly traditional, long-standing Mexican meal in Scottsdale?
A: The Authentic Mexican Restaurant (Established 1950s) is your ideal choice. With its third-generation management and focus on signature dishes like the tri-colored Mexican Flag enchiladas, it offers a deep dive into classic Mexican cuisine.
Your Next Scottsdale Mexican Adventure Awaits
Scottsdale's Mexican restaurant scene is a treasure trove, full of unique flavors, captivating atmospheres, and, crucially, an impressive array of margaritas to complement every dish and enhance every experience. Whether you're a connoisseur of classic lime, an explorer of spicy infusions, or simply looking for a refreshing fruit-forward blend, the perfect pairing of Mexican fare and a handcrafted margarita awaits. Plan your visit, embrace the diverse culinary traditions, and savor the best that Scottsdale has to offer.