Tommy’s Margarita
A refined margarita that showcases pure tequila and agave flavors without orange liqueur
SUGGESTED GLASSWARE
Rocks Glass
Recipe
- Blanco Tequila60 ml
- Lemon Juice30 ml
- Agave Syrup15 ml
- Salt1 pinch
- Lime1 wheel
Instructions
Equipment
Description
Created in the late 1980s by Julio Bermejo at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco, this IBA-recognized “new era” cocktail strips away the orange liqueur found in classic margaritas, replacing it with agave syrup to create a purer expression of tequila’s natural agave character. The result is a cleaner, more focused cocktail that highlights the quality of premium 100% agave tequila while maintaining perfect balance between sweet and tart.
Nutritional information
1 cocktail (140ml)Tips & Notes
Always use 100% agave tequila - blanco offers clean, crisp profile while reposado adds subtle complexity. Quality tequila is essential as this cocktail showcases the spirit.
Use only freshly squeezed lime juice from Persian limes for optimal juiciness and flavor. Pre-bottled lime juice will significantly compromise the drink's brightness.
Light or blue agave syrup is preferred over dark agave which can overpower the delicate balance. The agave syrup should complement, not mask, the tequila's flavor.
Measure ingredients with a jigger for precision - accuracy is crucial for proper balance in craft cocktails. Start with least expensive ingredients first.
Shake vigorously for proper dilution and chilling. The ice should travel the full volume of the shaker to achieve optimal temperature and mouthfeel.
What's the difference between Tommy's Margarita and a classic Margarita?
Tommy’s Margarita omits orange liqueur (triple sec or Cointreau) found in classic margaritas, replacing it with agave syrup. This creates a cleaner, more focused cocktail that highlights the tequila’s natural agave character without orange overtones.
Should I use blanco or reposado tequila?
Both work excellently – blanco tequila offers a clean, crisp profile that showcases pure agave flavors, while reposado adds subtle complexity and richness from barrel aging. Choose based on your preference for clean brightness or added depth.
Is the salt rim necessary?
The salt rim is optional and based on personal preference. Some experts suggest skipping it to let the cocktail’s pure flavors stand alone, while others enjoy how the salt enhances the agave and lime flavors. If using salt, kosher salt is preferred for its texture.
Can I make agave syrup at home?
Yes, you can make agave syrup by mixing light agave nectar with a small amount of water to thin it slightly for easier mixing. However, commercial light agave syrup designed for cocktails often has the ideal consistency and neutral flavor profile.
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