While San Diego has a pretty impressive year-round supply of tequila, what better excuse to sip this blue agave-based libation than in celebration of National Tequila Day on July 24? Here’s where you can try flights, cocktails, old vintages and more.
Edited by Lisa Kelley
El Agave
For every fine tequila imaginable, peruse the library of bottles at El Agave Restaurant and Tequileria, boasting more than 2000 different tequilas that line the walls, ceiling and bar. 2304 San Diego Ave, Old Town, 619.220.0692. elagave.com
Blind Burro
Forget the stock exchange. Instead, gamble on tequila prices at Blind Burro, where prices of tequila fluctuate based on demand. In addition to the Tequila Exchange Program, The Blind Burro also offers The Mega Margarita (super-sized to share) and the Baller Margarita made with Don Julio 1942, grand mariner, fresh lime and garnished with a gold chain. 639 J St., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.795.7880. theblindburro.com
Don Chido
Try several different flavor profiles and vintages with Don Chido’s specialty tequila flights. Casamigos Tequila will be offering complimentary tastings of its small-batch tequila made from hand-selected Blue Weber agaves. Don Chido also boasts a “Drink Bible” with more than 120 different kinds of tequila to try. Flights of four tastings will be half-off regular prices. 527 Fifth Ave., Gaslamp Quarter, 619.232.8226. donchido.com
The Pony Room
Rancho Valencia’s well-known eatery, The Pony Room, boasts over 150 variations of tequila; plus hand-crafted signature cocktails. Try the Sassy Sangria or the Pony Express made with Herradura Double Barrel Reposado, Cointreau and fresh lime. The resort’s new tequila club, The All Agave Project, offers tequila enthusiasts exclusive seminars, tastings and more. 5921 Valencia Circle, Rancho Santa Fe. ranchovalencia.com
Cantina Mayahuel
For a laid-back taste of authentic Mexican cuisine, pair one of the tacos or tortas with Cantina Mayahuel’s impressive collection of sipping tequilas. While the menu features a variety of margaritas, the owners are purists and great ambassadors for fine tequilas served neat. The restaurant is small but also offers an outdoor patio dining space and a rotating lineup of daily specials. 2934 Adams Ave., University Heights, 619.283.6292. cantinamayahuel.com
Barrio Star
For a playful take on tequila, head to the newly-renovated Barrio Star and try one of their signature margaritas. In addition to a special flavor of the week, Barrio Star offers the house margarita, blood orange and the award-winning roasted jalapeño blackberry. 2706 Fifth Ave., Bankers Hill, 619.501.7827. barriostar.com
