Are you on a quest to find the most tantalizing margaritas in Long Beach, California? Look no further! With Cinco de Mayo coming up, we sipped our way through the city and are thrilled to share our top three picks with you. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these spots are a must-try for anyone who appreciates a well-crafted drink.

3. Port City Tavern: A Twist on Tradition

Kicking off our list at number three is Port City Tavern, where the art of the margaritas in Long Beach is taken to a whole new level.

This cocktail bar, nestled at 4306 E. Anaheim St., offers a vibrant and innovative drink menu that caters to both classic cocktail aficionados and adventurous souls alike. Let’s dive into what makes this spot a standout destination in the Long Beach cocktail scene.

A Diverse and Inventive Drink Menu

Port City Tavern’s cocktail list is nothing short of spectacular, featuring a blend of traditional elements and surprising twists that create unforgettable flavors. Here are a few highlights from their menu:

Sin Miedo: This bold concoction combines tequila with fresh watermelon and a dash of balsamic, topped off with a port wine float. It’s a perfect example of how Port City Tavern likes to push the boundaries of what you might expect in a cocktail.
Tropic Thunder: A fan favorite, especially among margarita lovers, the Tropic Thunder mixes blanco tequila with reduced mango sorbet and pineapple shrub, balanced with a squeeze of lime. It’s a tropical retreat in a glass.
Zim Zim: For those who enjoy the earthy flavors of tequila, the Zim Zim offers a delightful mix of tequila and maguey agave, complemented by mamey sapote, lime, Mandarin Napoleon, and a hint of tamarind for a tangy finish.
Texas Sun EP: This unique blend of tequila, mezcal, citrus, and tea-infused nitro red wine float showcases Port City Tavern’s flair for combining complex flavors in a harmonious way.

More Than Just Cocktails

Port City Tavern isn’t just about the drinks; it’s a local hub with a vibrant atmosphere. They host a variety of weekly events that make any night of the week a potential adventure:

Karaoke Nights: Every Monday from 9 PM until close, guests can channel their inner superstar and enjoy a lively karaoke session.
Pool Tournaments: Every Wednesday, pool enthusiasts gather for a friendly tournament. It’s open to all, making it a great way to meet new people and enjoy some competitive fun.

Happy Hour and More

For those looking to unwind after work, Port City Tavern offers a tempting Happy Hour from 4 to 6 PM on weekdays. During these hours, patrons can enjoy special pricing on a selection of drinks and snacks in a relaxed and friendly environment.

2. Taco Beach: Flavorful & Affordable Margaritas in Long Beach

Located in an unexpected spot on Bellflower Blvd., Taco Beach claims the second spot on our list. This hidden gem might look unassuming from the outside, but don’t let that fool you. The margaritas here are not only scrumptious but are also incredibly wallet-friendly.

Here’s a closer look at some of their standout offerings:

El Jefe: A premium option for those who appreciate a smoother, richer flavor. Made with Herradura Blanco tequila and Gran Gala, this margarita is available as a single or double, priced at $9 and $12 respectively. It’s perfect for those who enjoy their margarita with a bit more sophistication.
La Casa Taco Beach: The house specialty, featuring El Jimador tequila. This is a more straightforward, classic margarita, priced very attractively at $7 for a single and $9 for a double. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for the quintessential margarita experience.
Jalapeño Cucumber: For those who like a bit of heat and freshness in their drink, this margarita mixes El Jimador tequila with cucumber, lime, and jalapeño, rimmed with chili salt. It’s a vibrant drink that perfectly balances the heat with refreshing notes, available at $9 for a single and $12 for a double.
La Paloma: A slightly tart and refreshingly fizzy option that combines El Jimador tequila with grapefruit soda and a touch of lime, finished with a salted rim. Priced at $8 for a single and $10 for a double, it’s a summery drink that’s both invigorating and satisfying.
Mango con Chile: This is for those who crave a sweet yet spicy kick. Featuring El Jimador tequila blended with mango purée and lime, then rimmed with chamoy and chile salt, it’s a thrilling blend of flavors that tickle the palate. This margarita is a fantastic representation of traditional Mexican flavor profiles, available for $9 for a single and $12 for a double.

A Menu Full of Flavorful Choices

Taco Beach offers a diverse menu that’s sure to cater to a wide range of tastes. Here are some highlights from their extensive offering:

Carne Quesadilla: A versatile option with your choice of guisado chicken, charro chicken, ground beef, carnitas, or brisket, all complemented by fresh pico de gallo.
Combos: Customize your meal with two items from a selection that includes classic tacos, chile relleno, enchiladas, tamales, taquitos, and taco dorado, all served with rice and beans.
Salads and Soups: For those looking for something lighter, there are several salads like the Mexican Caesar and the Good Salad, or the comforting tortilla soup with the option to add chicken.
Fajitas and Platos: Indulge in heartier dishes like the shrimp, steak, or triple threat fajitas, or opt for specialties like the habañero cream shrimp enchiladas and the angus carne asada.

Watch the Game While You Sip Margaritas in Long Beach

For sports fans, Taco Beach is an ideal location to watch the game. With several TVs strategically placed around the restaurant, you can enjoy live sports action no matter where you’re seated. This feature makes Taco Beach a popular destination on game days, where fans can cheer on their favorite teams in a vibrant and communal setting.

1. Lola’s: The Crowd Favorite

Finally, at the top of our margarita must-visit list is Lola’s. This place is a local favorite for many reasons, but their margaritas are truly in a league of their own.

With two convenient locations at Retro Row and Bixby Knolls, Lola’s provides a vibrant dining experience that caters to all types of food enthusiasts.

Locations to Serve You Better

Retro Row
Situated at 2030 E 4th St, the Retro Row location offers a dynamic street view and a bustling atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for both locals and tourists. This location operates Monday through Friday from 11:30 am to 9 pm, and on weekends from 10 am to 9 pm.

Bixby Knolls
You can find the Bixby Knolls location at 4140 Atlantic Ave, which features a slightly different vibe with the same high-quality food and service. The hours here are Monday to Thursday from 11:30 am to 8 pm, extending until 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays, and closing at 8 pm on Sundays.

Cuisine That Captivates

Lola’s is renowned for its exceptional take on Mexican cuisine, serving dishes that are both delicious and visually appealing. Some standout items include:

Carne Asada Estilo Toluca: An 8oz Point Reyes skirt steak topped with grilled tomatillo, onions, and bacon, served alongside garlicky whole beans and Mexican rice.
Cochinita Pibil: This dish features achiote-rubbed pork shoulder roasted in banana leaves for six hours, creating a tender and flavorful meal complemented by pickled red onions and sweet plantains.
Birria Guadalajara: A rich and hearty offering that includes pork shoulder and veal simmered in a family adobo recipe for six hours, served with a savory broth.

A Wide Array of Margaritas in Long Beach

No visit to Lola’s is complete without sampling their extensive margarita menu, featuring classics and unique creations such as:

Cloud 9 Margarita: A mix of Centenario Plata Tequila, agave nectar, fresh lime, coconut cream, and pink guava puree.
Spicy Watermelon Margarita: Combining Pueblo Viejo Blanco Tequila with jalapeño watermelon puree for a sweet yet spicy kick.

Enjoyable Happy Hours and Special Events

Lola’s offers an engaging happy hour that boasts discounts on both drinks and appetizers, making it a popular choice for both after-work gatherings and leisurely weekend hangouts. Additionally, the restaurant hosts Taco Tuesday and Weekend Brunch, providing ample opportunities for guests to enjoy their offerings at special rates.

Whether you choose the modern twists of Lola’s, the laid-back charm of Taco Beach, or the innovative concoctions at Port City Tavern, you’re guaranteed an amazing experience. So, next time you’re ready to sip margaritas in Long Beach, be sure to check out these top spots for some of the best in town. Cheers to great drinks, great food, and unforgettable times in the LBC!