The 5 Best Margaritas Around Truckee/North Lake Tahoe Region

Margaritas have long been the unofficial cocktail of summer, so it's no surprise that in a region thriving on sunshine, days by the lake and après-ski patio sessions, their popularity hardly slows with the seasons. A well-crafted margarita strikes a delicate balance between tang and tequila, citrus and salt. These local establishments that know how to mix refreshment with flair are recognized in the Best of North Lake Tahoe and Truckee. Whether poured over ice or blended into frosty perfection, these standout spots deliver margaritas that leave a lasting impression — one sip at a time.

Casa Baeza Mexican Restaurant

A Truckee institution since 1981, Casa Baeza has been serving up Mexican cuisine and legendary margaritas long enough to become part of the town’s culinary DNA. This family-owned spot is known for its no-nonsense charm, warm hospitality and extensive tequila selection — boasting hundreds of varieties behind the bar. That’s not hyperbole; the place has developed a reputation for pouring one of the most robust agave spirit lineups in the area. Whether you lean classic with lime and salt or opt for one of their inventive house blends, margaritas here are both strong and soulful. Casa Baeza doesn't complicate what works — it just does it really well, and in a setting that feels like home even if you just walked in.

Shadyside Lounge

Housed within the West Shore Market, Shadyside Lounge offers more than a cozy corner for cocktails — it brings a touch of refinement to lakeside libations. The ambiance is part rustic, part polished, and entirely welcoming, whether you're perched at the bar or sipping slowly on the patio. With an emphasis on high-quality ingredients and craft techniques, the lounge serves margaritas that are carefully balanced and thoughtfully presented. The bartenders take their time, and you can taste the result in every tart, tequila-laced sip. It’s the kind of spot where margaritas are less of a guilty pleasure and more of a reason to linger longer.

Rosewood Tahoe

At Rosewood Tahoe, the margarita isn’t just a drink: It’s part of a broader aesthetic that blends Latin inspiration with high-design sensibilities. This Incline Village cocktail bar and tapas kitchen brings its own twist to the classics, offering margaritas that are both familiar and nuanced. The bar itself is styled with natural textures and modern lines, giving off an effortlessly cool vibe that suits everything from a casual happy hour to a more curated evening out. While the drink menu rotates seasonally, tequila-forward creations like the margarita always seem to hold their own. And if you’re lucky enough to catch some live music with your glass in hand, all the better.

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