Margarita Island & Cantina
8135 N.W. 10th
margaritaislandokc.com
603-2850
A fellow Gazetteer likes
the libations of Margarita Island. Import and domestic beer and mixed
drinks — frozen and on the rocks — abound. There’s a patio, smoking is
allowed inside and you won’t want to miss the fire pit.
Junior’s
2601 Northwest Expressway
juniorsokc.com
848-5597
This
iconic Oklahoma City haunt has long been a favorite of state
legislators and business bigwigs. If politics and commerce aren’t your
thing, but brandy is, make a special trip for its signature Brandy Ice.
Grandad’s Bar
317 N.W. 23rd
grandadsbar.com
604-0922
For
those who prefer a nonsmoking environment, said one tobacco-free
colleague, try the Stump Jumper at Grandad’s: a shot of Old Grand-Dad
whiskey and a Coors Banquet beer. And many local brews are on tap.
Chelino’s
427 S.W. Grand
chelinosmesicanrestaurant.com
636-1110
For
one of our staffers, nothing says summer like Chelino’s patio and a
Tecate “in the large frosted goblets with salt and lime.” Not craving
ice-cold brew? Chelino’s has margarita enthusiasts covered, too.
Blu Fine Wine & Food
201 S. Crawford, Norman
thegoodlifeok.com/blu
360-4258
For one Gazette team
member, this place hits the spot “because it’s a fun atmosphere and
easy on the wallet.” Don’t be intimidated by the name. The wine list is
divided into six categories, or choose a flight to sample several wines.
Red Piano Lounge
1 Park Ave.
Skirvin Hilton Hotel
skirvinhilton.com
702-8444
Visit the bar in the Skirvin Hilton Hotel for the Great Scott. Consisting of gin and chopped cucumber, it is, in the words of a Gazette vet, “a great summer drink.” Oh, and be sure to cruise the expansive martini menu.
Mama Roja’s Mexican Kitchen
9219 Lake Hefner
mamaroja.ehsrg.com
302-6262
One of the newest Gazette staffers
chooses Mama Roja’s Perfect Margarita as her adult beverage of choice —
“for the view and the whole shaker full of margarita.” For the
tequila-timid, opt for the house-made sangria.
Photos by Shannon Cornman, Mark Hancock and Heather Brown
