ToBru wrote: >> >>Looking for suggestions on where I can find a great margarita in Seattle >or >>Surrounding Area? >La Cocina on Broadway has huge (26 oz.) cheap ($5.95) margaritas in a >purist-curdling array of fruit flavors. >Rattler's on Eastlake has goodies and a big deck to drink 'em on. >Cactus in Madison Park gets lots of votes. >Alas and hooray, Casa U-Barfa on 1st has gone the way of all cheesy things Well, I find the whole authenticity debate boring and unnecessary -- all that matters is what tastes good. That said, there are three things I look for in a great Marg. 1) Quality Tequila -- While individual tastes may certainly vary, I've found that most of the folks I cross paths with most prefer Patron Gold. It has a surprisingly complex, floral nose and extended, clean finish...none of the "gasoline" character of some tequilas. 2) Quality Orange Liquer -- Triple Sec (IMO) tends to dominate the exotic, floral/spice nose of better Tequilas. Of the better Orange Liquers, I prefer Cointreaux. Cointreaux is lighter, more floral, and more delicate, providing a nice balance for a quality Tequila. Some folks prefer Grand Marinier (sp?), but keep in mind that Grand Marinier is mixed with Brandy, and tends to carry a dominat vanilla-oak character...its also a little sweet. 3) The Mix -- This MUST be fresh, preferably a simple Bartender's sour mix (fresh lemon juice and a little sugar). This may sound pretentious, but I've gotten to the point that I won't order a Margarita unless the Bartender or waitstaff uses a fresh sour mix. Several places in town cognizant of these points include: El Camino, Luau, and my house. Of these, El Camino has a lock -- IMHO -- on the best valued Margarita. $6.50 will get you a 16oz glass of perfection -- Patron Gold, Cointreaux, and a little sour. Jarrett
Seattle, WA