Best Tequila Drinks In Minnesota

By Linda Cameron 

Tequila is often aged in wine and whiskey oak barrels. The ABV of tequila approximates the ABV of whiskey. But it's the myths about tequila that perpetuate its reputation. One marketing ploy that has (thankfully) been dropped is the proverbial worm in the tequila bottle. Legitimate distillers, bottlers and distributors prohibit the production and sale of wormed tequila. (Keep this in mind when you drink your tequila neat or as a crafted cocktail.) The liquor, more like liqueur because it easily absorbs flavors, is superb in margaritas. However, there are other delicious and fascinating tequila-inspired craft drinks. Here are some interesting local spots for tequila cocktails with Cinco de Mayo twists.

Anejos Restaurant 
1733 Pine Cone Road
Sartell, MN 56377
(320) 252-1000
www.anejosrestaurant.com

To bypass this charming South of The Border restaurant with classic Spanish décor would be remiss. Anejos can answer any question about tequila and its origins. For drinks, the restaurant's specialty is a full margarita selection made with the best tequilas. The recipes are a family secret. The best that can be said is "No concentrates are used." However, fresh citrus fruits figure prominently. The dining menu is designed to pair appetizers and main dishes with tequila. Consider burrito Anejos, an Anejos platter, an Anejos steak dinner or Anejos seafood. Goodness knows: Anejos is a premium tequila.

Nico's Taco And Tequila Bar
2516 Hennepin Ave. S.
Minneapolis, MN 55405
(612) 345-7688
www.nicostacobar.com

If you want all tequila, the tequilas at this taco and tequila bar are 100-percent pure agave. Most are aged less than two months. For tequila lovers, this is a Twin Cities agave paradise. Every margarita is infused with organic agave nectar. For a margarita departure, try the El Diablo, Paloma or Tequila's Last Word. Each has dashing splashes of tequila mixed with citrus fruits and fruity liqueurs. In strength and flavor, these drinks are worlds apart from the margarita.

Lone Spur Grill And Bar 
11032 Cedar Lake Road
Hopkins, MN 55305
(952) 540-0181
www.lonespurgrill.com

Pardner, one should never be a lone drinker. But whether you want solitude or prefer company, get your spurs on and hop down to the Lone Spur Grill and Bar. At this Hopkins hotspot, you'll seldom feel alone. During happy hour, patrons strike gold with tequila golden margaritas. Another way to shake it up is to down a half carafe of iced Texas Tea, made with Cuervo Gold tequila, vodka, triple sec, rum, sweet and sour mix and cola. Now here's a tequila drink for warm days and cool evenings.

Related: Best Bars For Frozen Margaritas In Minnesota

Related: Ask A Minnesota Bartender: Your Best Tequila Cocktail