These hot 90° temps have me straight up parched for something cold and refreshing. This Thursday, I’m thirsty for the pineapple margarita at Esquire Lounge. This pineapple margarita ($6.25) is made with a special tequila that Esquire infuses in-house with fresh pineapple, sugar, and vanilla bean. That contusion is what makes this margarita so awesome. The drink begins with a boozy burst of sweet pineapple and agave from the infused tequila, then there’s an interlude of tart lime before a smooth tequila finish. And I love that it comes with a snack/garnish of sliced pineapple.
I like a salted rim for Esquire’s signature pineapple marg, but sugar rim is an option as well — and a slushie version, too.
I kind of think the frozen version is even better. Also garnished a pineapple appetizer/garnish, the margarita slushie has a thick and exceptionally smooth consistency with no hidden clumps of ice and the same delicious tart and sweet flavor as Esquire’s original pineapple margarita. Though the bar offers other drinks (including a cocktail called mango bango), this pineapple margarita is a favorite and has been popular for more than a decade for good reason. It’s absolutely delicious.
Esquire Lounge has indoor dining as well as patio tables on the corner of University and Walnut in Downtown Champaign. For suggestions on food to pair with margaritas, read Tayler’s restaurant review of Esquire’s white garlic pizza, Asian dumplings, and more or Carl’s 2021 review of the Asian dumplings, Greek pizza, sausage sandwich, and drinks. Learn more about Esquire Lounge on their website here.
Esquire Lounge
106 N Walnut St
Champaign
10 a.m. to midnight, daily
