Tommy’s Margarita: A Pure, Fresh Twist on the Classic Margarita

Cocktail Snapshot
Spirit Base: 100% Agave Tequila (preferably Blanco)
Flavor Profile: Bright, citrusy, lightly sweet with bold agave notes
Serve Style: Shaken, served over ice
Difficulty: Easy
Origin: 1990s, San Francisco

Backstory & Cultural Relevance

When you think of a Margarita, you likely imagine a salt-rimmed glass, maybe some triple sec, and a carefree spirit. But in the 1990s, San Francisco bartender Julio Bermejo reimagined the drink at his family’s restaurant, Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant. Instead of the traditional orange liqueur, he championed agave nectar, putting the pure essence of tequila and lime front and center. Tommy’s Margarita isn’t just a variation—it’s a revolution.

Today, Tommy’s Margarita is recognized worldwide and even has its own category at the IBA (International Bartenders Association). It's the Margarita that honors tequila's roots in the most delicious way possible.

Ingredients

• 2 oz 100% Agave Tequila (preferably Blanco)

• 1 oz Fresh Lime Juice

• ½ oz Agave Syrup (adjust to taste)

Method

1. Add tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup to a shaker with ice.

2. Shake vigorously until well chilled (about 10–12 seconds).

3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.

4. Garnish with a lime wedge.

Why It Works
Tommy’s Margarita focuses on:

• Pure tequila flavor without distraction

• Fresh, tart brightness from lime juice

• Smooth, natural sweetness from agave syrup

...all blending into a Margarita that feels lighter, fresher, and more authentic.

Variations & Twists

• Spicy Tommy’s: Muddle fresh jalapeño slices before shaking for a fiery kick.

• Smoky Tommy’s: Substitute a splash of mezcal for half the tequila for a smoky undertone.

• Tommy’s Paloma: Top the cocktail with a splash of grapefruit soda after shaking for a fizzy, citrus twist.

• Frozen Tommy’s Margarita: Blend with ice for a summertime slush version.

Pairing Ideas

• Fresh Guacamole and Chips — The bright lime complements creamy avocado perfectly.

• Grilled Shrimp Tacos — Light, citrusy flavors echo the freshness of the Margarita.

• Ceviche — A fresh, zesty match made in coastal heaven.

Final Sip
Tommy’s Margarita strips the Margarita down to its purest form — crisp tequila, bright lime, and just the right touch of natural sweetness. It’s a cocktail that celebrates simplicity and quality, perfect for any occasion from casual backyard BBQs to sophisticated cocktail parties.