Dallas is no stranger to a good margarita. Be it frozen, on the rocks, or the newly popular soft-serve: there are good ‘ritas wherever you look in the city. That said, if you want to best margarita in Texas, go to the source; Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch, the birthplace of the world’s first frozen margarita.
Aggregate, all-encompassing food blog, Chowhound, recently published its round-up of the margarita hotspots in every state. Its methodology consisted of a blend of professional expertise and public consensus. The selections are based on the writer’s experience, input from Chowhound staff nationwide, social media discussions, and an analysis of everyday diner reviews.
According to the article, the “hands down best place to order a margarita” in Texas is Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch. One of Dallas’ long‑standing Tex‑Mex destinations, Mariano’s opened in 1971.
The restaurant is widely known as the birthplace of the world’s first frozen margarita. In fact, the restaurant’s original frozen margarita machine is permanently on display in the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History in Washington D.C. Over the decades, the group has grown from a single spot into a small regional chain.
Here’s what ChowHound had to say about Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch in Dallas:
“Recognized by the Smithsonian Institution as the birthplace of the frozen margarita machine, the Mariano’s restaurant group has four locations across Texas. At its flagship location, find that trailblazing cocktail — as well as many others, both blended and on the rocks”.
To this day, the restaurant continues to serve top-notch margaritas worthy of its legacy.
Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch offers one of Dallas’s most extensive margarita menus. The frozen lineup features the 100% blue agave Original, fruit variations, and a standout sangria-layered “Swirl,” with party sizes available up to a gallon.
Hand-shaken “on the rocks” options range from premium craft drinks like the Don Julio-based “Mariano” to family recipes and a lighter Skinny version. To accommodate all palates, the menu is rounded out by spicy choices like the Spicy Cool Cucumber, refreshing Ranch Waters, and non-tequila “Sorta-Ritas” made with whiskey or vodka.
Mariano’s Hacienda Ranch has multiple locations in North Texas, its flagship, however, is at 6300 Skillman Street. The restaurant is open from 4 pm – 9 pm on Tuesday; 11 am – 9 pm on Wednesday and Thursday; 11 am – 10 pm on Friday and Saturday; and from 11 am – 9 pm on Sunday.
