The Lone Star State’s Margarita trail

Texas is America’s “Margarita mecca,” said Robb Walsh in Saveur. It was a Texan restaurant owner, Mariano Martinez, who in 1971 “figured out how to make frozen Margaritas in a soft-serve ice cream machine.” That machine now resides in the Smithsonian in Washington, D.C. Today these are some of the best places in the state to enjoy this “elemental libation of tequila, fruit liqueur, and fruit juice.”

Mariano’s Hacienda

The frozen Margarita at Mariano’s new place is still “made from the original recipe.” 6300 Skillman St., Building J, Dallas, (214) 691-3888

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Fonda San Miguel

The Silver Coin Margarita “features watermelon-infused tequila with Cointreau.” 2330 W. North Loop Blvd., Austin, (512) 459-4121

Las Canarias

The legendary Margaritas served here are made with prickly pear and pomegranate. 112 College St., San Antonio, (210) 518-1063

Armandos

The city’s “toniest Tex-Mex spot.” Its potent Margarita is served in “a fishbowl-size glass.” 2630 Westheimer Road, Houston, (713) 520-1738

Club No Minors

“If you order the Blue Margarita, you may not find your way back to the hotel.” 6444 Westheimer Road, Houston, (713) 780-0410