Where to Find the Best Margaritas in Gainesville 🍹

Nothing says Gainesville weekends like a good margarita. Whether you’re celebrating after a Gator win, meeting friends downtown, or just looking for a spot to unwind, the right margarita can set the tone. While plenty of places in town offer them, only a couple stand out for quality and atmosphere. Here are the top spots to grab a margarita in Gainesville — and why Cantina Añejo and Oak Gainesville are at the top of the list.

1. Cantina Añejo Gainesville

If you’re serious about margaritas, Cantina Añejo should be your first stop. Located downtown, Cantina specializes in tequila and brings authentic Mexican-inspired flavors to Gainesville. From their fresh lime house margarita to adventurous flavors like spicy jalapeño or strawberry, every cocktail feels handcrafted. Pair that with their vibrant atmosphere, and you’ve got the best margarita experience in Gainesville.

👉 Check out Cantina Añejo here

2. Oak Gainesville

Known for its lively brunch and late-night crowd, Oak Gainesville also mixes a mean margarita. Their cocktails lean bold and refreshing, perfect for kicking off the night or pairing with a weekend meal. Oak’s central location makes it an easy choice for students and locals who want a margarita without leaving downtown.

👉 See Oak Gainesville’s menu here

3. Chili’s Grill & Bar

Chili’s is a chain staple, and their Presidente Margarita is recognizable. While it’s a decent option for a casual night out, it doesn’t compete with the freshness or energy of Gainesville’s local spots.

4. Ruby Tuesday

Ruby Tuesday has margaritas on the menu, but they’re more of a side offering than a feature. They’ll get the job done, but if you’re looking for a true margarita destination, you’ll want to head downtown instead.

5. TGI Fridays

Fridays serves up affordable margaritas with seasonal flavors, but the atmosphere is more generic chain than Gainesville culture. Good in a pinch, but not a go-to for locals or students.

Why Cantina & Oak Win 🍹

When you compare Gainesville’s options, it’s clear that chain restaurants just don’t deliver the same quality or atmosphere. Cantina Añejo offers the most authentic and flavorful margaritas in town, while Oak Gainesville brings refreshing cocktails to the heart of downtown nightlife. Together, they set the standard for what a Gainesville margarita should be.

👉 Plan your next night out at Cantina Añejo or Oak Gainesville