Best North Phoenix Margarita: Local Picks Ranked by the Community
Living North Phoenix Members Voted — Here Are the Top Margarita Spots Near North Phoenix, Including a Clear Fan Favorite.
When you think of Arizona and alcoholic drinks, what comes to mind first?
For many of us, it’s the margarita. A warm desert afternoon. Poolside conversations. Southwest flavors. Lime, salt, and something refreshing in your hand.
So naturally, the question came up inside the Living North Phoenix Facebook community:
Who has the best North Phoenix margarita?
The responses poured in — and the winner wasn’t even close.
1. El Encanto – The Clear Winner
The overwhelming favorite? El Encanto.
By a landslide.
The number of comments, reactions, and repeat endorsements made this the most decisive poll result we’ve seen in the group.
What surprised me? I had been there — I just didn’t realize how famous their margaritas were.
If you’ve visited El Encanto, you know the vibe: beautiful outdoor seating, water features, and a setting that feels like a desert escape. And when a restaurant dedicates an entire menu page to margaritas, that’s usually a good sign.
After digging a little deeper, I found they’ve even been recognized by Phoenix New Times for their margaritas — not just locally, but Valley-wide.
Now the real question:
On the rocks or frozen?
2. Valle Luna
Coming in second place: Valle Luna.
Valle Luna received strong support from longtime locals who swear by their margarita specials.
One standout detail? They dedicate a full day to margaritas — which suggests confidence in their recipe.
They have multiple locations serving North Phoenix residents, including near:
Bell Road & 35th Avenue
Cave Creek Road & Bell Road
If a restaurant has loyal regulars backing it consistently, that says something.
This one is officially on my list.
3. The Mexicano
In a close third was The Mexicano.
Located near the popular 85254/85032 area and close to Desert Ridge, The Mexicano is one of the newer spots generating buzz.
The restaurant is led by Chef Joey Maggiore, who also operates other Valley concepts including The Sicilian Butcher.
Community members didn’t just vote — they were passionate about it. That kind of response usually means the drinks are memorable.
Another stop added to the list.
Margaritas & Desert Ridge Dining
While not included in this specific poll, Desert Ridge continues to be one of the most active dining hubs in the area. With a mix of national names and local favorites, it’s no surprise that strong margaritas can be found throughout the neighborhood.
If you’re exploring restaurants there — or even considering living nearby — Desert Ridge remains one of the most desirable areas in North Phoenix.
What Pairs Best With Margaritas?
Tacos. Always tacos.
If you’re searching for the best tacos in North Phoenix, you’ll find plenty of local opinions inside Living North Phoenix. The community never disappoints when it comes to food recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Based on community votes from Living North Phoenix members, El Encanto in Cave Creek was the clear favorite, followed by Valle Luna and The Mexicano.
Valle Luna is known for dedicating a full day to margarita specials and has convenient locations near Bell Road.
Yes. While not part of this poll’s top three, Desert Ridge is home to several restaurants serving popular margaritas.
It depends on preference. Frozen margaritas are more refreshing in extreme heat, while on-the-rocks versions typically offer stronger flavor clarity.
Stay Connected with Living North Phoenix
Want more local recommendations, restaurant polls, and neighborhood insights?
Subscribe to the Living North Phoenix newsletter for insider updates on local events, new businesses, neighborhood highlights, and community favorites. Then follow us on Instagram for real-time features and join our Facebook community where thousands of neighbors share recommendations every day.
Living North Phoenix is more than a group — it’s your local connection hub.
Living North Phoenix – Blair
Real Estate Broker | Community Connector
Founder of Living North Phoenix
Helping residents discover the best of the community — one recommendation at a time.