Happy National Tequila Day! Alabama’s bar and restaurant scene is full of great places to celebrate, expand your agave horizons and make memories with friends. From a nationally acclaimed Birmingham cocktail bar to longtime local favorites serving legendary margaritas, there is no shortage of places to raise a glass.

Before mapping out your tequila tour, we asked José Medina Camacho, founder of Birmingham’s nationally recognized agave bar Adiõs, to share a few tips for appreciating tequila beyond the margarita.

For those new to tequila, Medina Camacho recommends starting with a reposado or añejo if you already enjoy bourbon or other aged spirits. He also encourages drinkers to look for additive-free tequilas made by producers committed to sustainable growing practices.

One of his favorite parts of National Tequila Day, he said, is introducing guests to bottles they might never have discovered on their own. He also hopes more people understand just how much time and care goes into every bottle.

“Agave takes years to mature,” he said. “Supporting producers that care for both the land and the communities harvesting it is just as important as what’s in the glass.”

Across Alabama, bartenders and restaurateurs are introducing guests to the depth and diversity of agave spirits. Here are a few places to start.

Birmingham

Mayawell Bar

Located in the Pepper Place district, Mayawell has built its identity around agave spirits. Expect creative seasonal margaritas, mezcal cocktails and a menu that encourages guests to explore beyond the classics.

Adiõs

Downtown Birmingham’s Adiõs has earned national recognition, including a spot on Food & Wine’s list of the best tequila bars in America. Inspired by Mexico City’s cocktail culture, the bar features an extensive tequila and mezcal selection alongside inventive cocktails and some of the city’s best classic margaritas.

Huntsville

Rosie’s Mexican Cantina

A Huntsville institution since 1995, Rosie’s is beloved for its extensive tequila selection and its signature Mambo Taxi—a frozen margarita swirled with sangria that has become a local favorite.

Agave & Rye

Known for creative tacos, bourbon and tequila, Agave & Rye brings plenty of personality to Huntsville’s dining scene with bold flavors and an energetic atmosphere.

Tuscaloosa

Jalapeños Downtown Cocina + Tequila Bar

Jalapeños proudly touts one of Alabama’s largest tequila selections. Alongside an extensive spirits menu, guests can enjoy standout cocktails like the Jalapeño Mezcal Margarita.

Taco Mama

A longtime favorite on University Boulevard, Taco Mama is known for its lively patio, build-your-own menu and refreshing lineup of margaritas perfect for celebrating the holiday.

Mobile

Roosters

Located on Dauphin Street, Roosters serves Latin American-inspired cuisine alongside house specialties like the Rooster Sunrise and a mezcal margarita finished with a Tajín rim.

Las Floriditas

Hidden behind a password-protected entrance in a historic former bank, Las Floriditas offers a unique Cuban-inspired speakeasy experience complete with handcrafted cocktails, Cuban fare and seating inside the original bank vault.

Montgomery

Sol Restaurante Mexicano & Taqueria

Known for its vibrant atmosphere, Sol serves street tacos, tableside guacamole and generously poured margaritas that keep locals coming back.

El Rey Burrito Lounge

Part restaurant, part neighborhood hangout, El Rey Burrito Lounge pairs Mexican-inspired dishes with a solid margarita menu, local ingredients and plenty of vegetarian-friendly options.

Auburn

Las Margaritas

A longtime Auburn favorite, Las Margaritas is known for its festive atmosphere, welcoming lounge and a wide variety of flavored margaritas.

Tekila Mexican Bar & Grill

With a name that leaves little mystery about its specialty, Tekila Mexican Bar & Grill offers a lively downtown atmosphere, affordable lunch specials and an extensive margarita and daiquiri menu.

Whether you’re interested in sampling a rare añejo, trying your first mezcal or simply enjoying a frozen margarita with friends, National Tequila Day is the perfect excuse to support one of Alabama’s many outstanding bars and restaurants.

Of course, this list only scratches the surface. Alabama is home to countless great spots pouring exceptional tequila, so if we missed one of your favorites, let us know.