Margarita Soda
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Margarita Soda
Cocktail recipe

Rating

4.62 / 5
The Margarita Soda, created by Tony Milici and Ben Howell at Hellbender in Queens, New York, is a refreshing, low-ABV highball. This simple yet ingenious twist on a Tommy’s Margarita features tequila, agave syrup, and lime juice, topped with club soda. The soda water opens up the earthy tequila notes and sharp lime, delivering balanced, layered complexity in every sip.
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Microbadges

Inventor
Base ingredient
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Tequila Blanco
Calories
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160 calories
Garnish
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Sea salt rim, lime wedge
Alcohol content
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8.5% | 0.77 units *

Highball glass

Ingredients

oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
cocktail colin avatar

Cocktail Colin says:

5/5

The Margarita Soda brilliantly marries the earthy depth of Tequila Blanco with the sweetness of agave syrup and the zesty punch of lime juice, creating a vibrant base that's both refreshing and complex. The addition of soda water effortlessly lightens the drink, enhancing its crisp, invigorating nature while still maintaining the drink's essential Margarita character.

Method
How to make a Margarita Soda

Serves 1 · Takes 5 minutes
Rim a Collins glass with sea salt
In a shaker filled with ice, combine tequila, agave syrup, and lime juice
Shake until chilled
Pour into the prepared glass, top with club soda, and gently stir
Garnish with a lime wedge and serve immediately

Power tips
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Use a quality Tequila Blanco that emphasizes citrus and earthy notes. A good spirit can significantly enhance the cocktail’s depth. Look for one with minimal aging to retain zesty tequila freshness.
Consider using smoked sea salt for rimming the glass. It will add an extra layer of complexity and a hint of smokiness that complements the citrusy and earthy elements of the drink.
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Learn more about some of the mixology terms used in this cocktail

·  Rim  ·  Shake  ·  Stir  ·  Garnish  · 

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FAQ's

Origins history icon

What is the origin of the Margarita Soda cocktail?

The Margarita Soda is a modern twist on the classic Margarita, created by Tony Milici and Ben Howell at Hellbender in Queens, New York. This innovative cocktail takes inspiration from Tommy’s Margarita, a beloved variation of the classic Margarita, and incorporates soda water to create a refreshing highball drink. This cocktail offers a contemporary experience with its unique combination of ingredients that highlights the earthy flavors of tequila and the tangy lime juice. Despite being a more recent creation, the Margarita Soda taps into the timeless appeal and endless adaptability of the Margarita cocktail family.

Ingredient substitutions icon

Can I substitute any ingredients in a Margarita Soda?

Yes, you can make substitutions in a Margarita Soda cocktail if needed. If Tequila Blanco is unavailable, you can opt for any light or silver tequila, though it may affect the taste subtly as different tequilas have distinct flavor profiles. For those who find agave syrup too sweet, a light simple syrup could be used, though it may lack the depth of flavor the agave brings. As for the lime juice, fresh-squeezed lime juice is preferred for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be an alternative in a pinch. The soda water can be substituted with tonic water or flavored soda but remember, these could impart additional flavors and sweetness to the drink.

Preparation techniques icon

How should I prepare a Margarita Soda cocktail?

To prepare a Margarita Soda cocktail, begin by collecting all your ingredients and a highball glass. First, fill the glass with ice. Next, combine the tequila, agave syrup, and lime juice in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake the mixture well to ensure the ingredients are nicely blended, and the cocktail is adequately chilled. Strain the cocktail into the prepared highball glass. Finally, top the drink with soda water to your liking. Stir the cocktail gently to mix the soda with the rest of the ingredients, taking care not to lose too much carbonation in the process. The preparation of this drink is straightforward but essential to achieve the perfect balance of flavors present in the Margarita Soda.

Non alcoholic variations icon

Is there a non-alcoholic version of Margarita Soda?

Creating a non-alcoholic version of the Margarita Soda involves a few strategic substitutions that retain the drink's refreshing qualities. Replace the Tequila Blanco with a non-alcoholic tequila alternative or a combination of lime-flavored soda and a dash of apple cider for complexity. Maintain the agave syrup and fresh lime juice to preserve the classic Margarita flavor notes. The soda water remains unchanged, as it provides the effervescent quality that makes this cocktail particularly refreshing. By focusing on maintaining the balance of sweet and sour, you can enjoy a delightful mocktail version of the Margarita Soda, ideal for those who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Food pairings icon

What food pairs well with a Margarita Soda?

The bright and refreshing flavors of a Margarita Soda pair well with a variety of foods, particularly those with a bold or spicy profile. Mexican cuisine is a natural choice, with dishes such as tacos, nachos, or enchiladas complementing the cocktail's citrusy and tequila-forward profile. Additionally, dishes that feature seafood, such as shrimp ceviche or grilled fish, align well with the Margarita Soda’s refreshing characteristics. The drink's lightness and effervescence also enhance the flavors of spicy foods, making it a great accompaniment to spicy salsas or guacamole. Ultimately, the Margarita Soda's versatility makes it a wonderful match for a wide range of dishes, particularly those that reflect vibrant and robust flavors.

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