When you find yourself in North Central Florida craving a touch of Jalisco, there is one name that inevitably tops the list: Las Margaritas. With locations in Gainesville and Ocala, this family-owned gem has carved out a reputation for being more than just a place to grab a quick taco. It is a destination for those who appreciate the art of the pour. While the food is undeniably authentic, it’s the las margaritas drink menu that often steals the show. Whether you are celebrating a graduation at UF or just surviving a long Monday, stepping into their vibrant, color-drenched dining room feels like an immediate upgrade to your day.
The Atmosphere You Can Taste
The moment you cross the threshold, the “Gainesville humidity” is replaced by the upbeat tempo of ranchera music and the clinking of heavy glass goblets. The decor is an unapologetic explosion of Mexican culture—hand-painted chairs, intricate tile work, and warm lighting that makes everyone look a little more relaxed.
It isn’t a quiet, library-style bar. It’s a lively, communal space where the energy is as bright as the neon-colored drinks passing by on trays. It’s the kind of place where the “vibe” is an essential ingredient in every cocktail.
Exploring the Las Margaritas Drink Menu
Let’s get to the heart of the matter: the drinks. This isn’t a menu that just offers “Lime or Strawberry.” It is an expansive library of tequilas, mezcals, and fruit-forward concoctions that cater to both the traditionalist and the adventurer.
Signature Sips Worth Trying
- The Classic House Rita: You can tell a lot about a place by its house pour. Served frozen or on the rocks, their house version is balanced—not too sugary, with a sharp citrus finish that cuts through the richness of a cheese dip.
- The 60oz Margarita Tower: If you’re with a group, this is the “final boss” of the menu. You can choose up to four flavors, making it a kaleidoscopic centerpiece for the table.
- The Mangonada: A frozen mango masterpiece layered with spicy chamoy and a Tajín rim. It’s a perfect bridge between a dessert and a cocktail.
- The Oaxacanite: For those who prefer a smokier profile, this blend of Tequila and Mezcal with pineapple and bitters is a sophisticated choice that stands out from the fruitier options.
Friendly Faces Behind the Bar
One of the highlights of visiting the Gainesville location is the speed of the bar. Even on a packed Friday night, the turnaround for drinks is impressively fast. The staff here seem to have a “sixth sense” for when your chips are running low or when your glass is nearing the bottom.
The bartenders are particularly skilled at recommendations. If you tell them you like something “spicy but not overwhelming,” they’ll likely steer you toward the Jalapeño Margarita with a confident nod. It’s a level of service that feels personal, rather than transactional.
Is It Worth the Price? Affordability & Deals
In 2026, finding a high-quality cocktail that doesn’t cost as much as an entree can be a challenge. However, Las Margaritas remains remarkably fair in its pricing.
| Drink Type | Estimated Price | Best Value Tip |
| House Margarita (Small) | $9.00 – $11.00 | Visit on Mondays for “Small Rita” specials! |
| Top Shelf / Signature | $14.00 – $17.00 | Worth it for the 100% Blue Agave spirits. |
| Margarita Tower | $99.00+ | The best “per-person” value for groups of 4+. |
| Imported Beer | $5.00 – $7.00 | Great for a quick midday lunch pairing. |
Moreover, their Happy Hour deals are legendary among locals, often featuring significant discounts on house pours and appetizers.
Our Honest Take
What We Loved
- Flavor Variety: From prickly pear to guava, the fruit infusions taste like real fruit, not syrupy concentrates.
- Customization: The ability to swap house tequila for mezcal or top-shelf reposados is a huge plus for enthusiasts.
- The Chips: Yes, they are free with a meal, and yes, they are the perfect salty companion to a cold drink.
Drawbacks to Consider
- The Noise Level: If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate spot for a first date, the peak dinner rush might be a bit overwhelming.
- Sweetness Factor: Some of the frozen fruit ritas can lean quite sweet. If you prefer a “skinny” style, be sure to specify you want agave nectar instead of simple syrup.
How It Stacks Up Against the Competition
Gainesville has its fair share of Mexican spots, from the trendy Chuy’s to smaller hole-in-the-wall taquerias. However, Las Margaritas holds its ground by focusing on authentic scratch-made quality. While Chuy’s offers a great Tex-Mex vibe, Las Margaritas feels more like a traditional family kitchen.
If you’ve read our previous reviews onFlorida’s best happy hours or authentic Latin eateries, you’ll know we value consistency—and Las Margaritas delivers that in spades.
Tips for Your Visit
- Mondays and Tuesdays are Key: They often run the best specials on house margaritas these days.
- Order the “Tableside Guac”: It is the ultimate pairing for any drink on the las margaritas drink menu. The freshness of the avocado enhances the citrus notes of the tequila.
- Parking Hack: The Gainesville lot can get tight. If you’re visiting during a peak Gator game weekend, consider carpooling or using a ride-share.
Common Questions
1: Are there non-alcoholic options?
Absolutely. They offer “Virgin” versions of almost all their fruit margaritas, as well as traditional Mexican sodas (Jarritos) and Horchata.
2: Do they offer vegan-friendly drinks?
Most margaritas are naturally vegan (tequila, lime, agave), but always double-check about specific mixers or “crema” based cocktails like the Piña Colada.
3: Is the drink menu the same at the Ocala location?
For the most part, yes! You’ll find the same signature staples and towers at both locations.
Our Recommendation & Final Verdict
If you are in search of a drink that doubles as an experience, look no further. The las margaritas drink menu is a well-crafted tribute to Mexican spirits that offers something for everyone, from the casual sipper to the tequila connoisseur.
Our Verdict: Skip the chain restaurants and head here. Order a “Sunset” Margarita, grab a basket of chips, and let the Gainesville sun fade away.