The best margarita in Columbus is out there. Nominate restaurants with the best one for our poll

The weather is warming up, patios are opening across the city and it’s time for Columbus to vote. Right in time for Cinco de Mayo, we’re kicking off a three-round reader poll to crown the best margarita in town.

What makes a great margarita?

Not all margaritas are created equal and a really great one isn’t defined by its recipe but by how it goes down. According to Delish, it should be crisp, balanced, and built with intention, so your nominations should reflect the best of the best.

Criteria:

• Flavor: The fresh lime should be tart, bright and vibrant.
• Spirit: A quality tequila adds character and smoothness and should have presence with dominance.
• Sweetness: There should be a balance so that it’s just enough to soften the citrus, but it shouldn’t taste like dessert.
• Salt: The salted rim should enhance, not overwhelm and sharpen each sip.
• Texture: Proper shaking creates a chilled and crisp feel and it should be icy but not frozen and refreshing without being diluted.
• Harmony: The elements should combine to make everything feel intentional and no single element should overshadow the others.

How to nominate your favorite

If a restaurant in town immediately comes to mind, then you must nominate it. Think about your go-to spot for margarita night or a hidden gem you’ve discovered, or just the best marg you’ve ever had, and get them in the running.

Ways to nominate:

• Fill out the Google form here
• Email srose@ledger-enquirer.com
• DM @srose_ledger on Instagram
• Drop a comment on this post

What to include

Don’t just throw a name at us, give us the details.

• Restaurant name and location
• What makes it worth the nomination (the salt rim? the mezcal swap? the price point?)
• Classic, frozen, spicy, or something weird (all styles welcome).

How the poll works

Nominations close Wednesday April 8, then readers vote through three rounds. We’ll announce the winner in time to enjoy the best on Cinco de Mayo, May 5.

I look forward to hearing your favorites (and trying them all for myself). If you have any other ideas for our Columbus favorites poll, let me know too!

This story was originally published March 31, 2026 at 6:00 AM.