Featured image: Ginnard Archibald
Cinco de Mayo may be widely recognized for its vibrant festivities, but its roots lie in the Mexican army’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla. While it’s not Mexico’s Independence Day—that’s in September—it has evolved in the U.S. into a full-on celebration of Mexican culture, especially its bold, crave-worthy cuisine and cocktails. Around Birmingham, that means one thing: margaritas with a twist. From taqueria standouts to moody downtown lounges, these four margaritas bring a little extra magic to your May 5 plans.
Al Pastor Margarita
At Salud Taqueria, bold flavors and playful presentation are the name of the game—and nowhere is that more evident than in the Al Pastor Margarita. Partner and beverage director José Medina Camacho layers smoky mezcal with pineapple-achiote syrup in a nod to the traditional taco al pastor. The result? A rich, balanced sip that brings the fire of the grill to your glass.
Adiós Margarita
A twist on a classic, the Adiós Margarita at Adiõs is everything we love about a margarita—bright, citrusy, and strong—with just a hint of the unexpected. Crafted by José Medina Camacho, this cocktail blends reposado tequila with a float of OFTD rum for a whisper of tropical funk. It’s the kind of drink that makes Happy Hour feel like a vacation.
Elote Man
Yes, corn in a cocktail—and yes, it works. Inspired by street elote, this margarita-meets-old fashioned mashup is rich with corn milk, layered with aged rum and rye, and finished with dried pineapple. At Adiõs, José Medina Camacho proves once again that boundary-pushing ingredients can still feel like comfort in a glass.
Cantarito
This one’s a classic for a reason. The Cantarito hails from Jalisco, Mexico—tequila country—and has long been a go-to for sunny afternoons and street-side celebrations. At Adiõs, José Medina Camacho keeps it traditional with tequila, citrus, and a splash of Squirt soda, making this fizzy favorite as easy-drinking as it is refreshing.
Find more recipes from around the South here.
