Unlike the traditional Margarita, which includes triple sec or orange liqueur, Tommy’s Margarita simplifies the recipe, highlighting the natural sweetness of agave syrup. The cocktail’s roots can be traced back to Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant in San Francisco, where it was first crafted in the late 20th century.
Birth at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant:
Tommy’s Margarita was born at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant, a beloved establishment in San Francisco renowned for its dedication to tequila and mezcal. Julio Bermejo, a tequila expert and co-owner of Tommy’s, is credited with creating this iconic variation of the Margarita.
The cocktail gained popularity not only for its delicious flavor but also for its innovative use of agave syrup, providing a richer and more nuanced sweetness than traditional triple sec.
Simple Ingredients, Extraordinary Flavor:
Tommy’s Margarita gained a reputation for its straightforward yet bold flavor profile. By replacing triple sec with agave syrup, the cocktail allows the agave notes in the tequila to shine, creating a more authentic and agave-centric experience.
The simplicity of Tommy’s Margarita has contributed to its widespread adoption in the mixology community and among tequila enthusiasts.
Tommy’s Margarita Ingredients
Before we delve into the recipe, let’s familiarize ourselves with the key ingredients that define Tommy’s Margarita:
- Tequila (60 ml / 2 ounces): The foundation of Tommy’s Margarita is a quality tequila.
- Fresh Lime Juice (30 ml/1 ounce): Freshly squeezed lime juice provides the essential citrusy and tart components.
- Agave Syrup (22.5 ml/0.75 ounce): Agave syrup, derived from the same plant used to make tequila, serves as the sweetener in Tommy’s Margarita.
Tommy’s Margarita Recipe
Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Ingredients
Before you start mixing, ensure you have the necessary tools: a shaker, a jigger for precise measurements, and a fine strainer. Also, have your tequila, fresh limes, and agave syrup ready.
Step 2: Rim the Glass (Optional)
- If desired, rim the edge of a chilled rocks glass with salt. This step is optional but adds a savory element that complements the sweetness of the agave.
Step 3: Measure and Add Tequila
- In a shaker, measure 60 ml (2 ounces) of your chosen tequila. Pour the tequila into the shaker, laying the foundation for the cocktail.
Step 4: Squeeze Fresh Lime Juice
- Measure 30 ml (1 ounce) of fresh lime juice. Use a citrus juicer to extract the juice from fresh limes, ensuring a vibrant and zesty flavor.
Step 5: Add Agave Syrup
- Measure 22.5 ml (0.75 ounce) of agave syrup. The syrup should be 100% agave to maintain the purity of flavors in Tommy’s Margarita. Pour the agave syrup into the shaker.
Step 6: Shake Vigorously with Ice
- Fill the shaker with ice and shake the mixture vigorously for about 15-20 seconds. This ensures proper chilling and dilution, creating a well-balanced cocktail.
Step 7: Fine Strain into a Chilled Glass
- Fine strain the shaken mixture into a chilled rocks glass filled with ice. This step helps eliminate ice chips, resulting in a smooth and visually appealing Tommy’s Margarita.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish the cocktail with a wedge of lime on the rim of the glass or a wheel floating on top. This not only adds a visual element but also enhances the aroma of the drink.
The Tommy’s Margarita – From Mexico To You
The classic Margarita recipe usually calls for tequila, fresh lime juice, and orange liqueur, but like many beloved classics, mixologists have put their own spin on it. One standout variation that has gained modern classic status is the Tommy’s Margarita, created by the renowned Julio Bermejo in the early ’90s at his family-owned restaurant, Tommy’s Mexican in San Francisco.
Setting itself apart, the Tommy’s Margarita swaps out orange liqueur for agave nectar, sweetening the drink with a more natural alternative. It also emphasizes using 100% agave tequila, avoiding refined sugar or additives, resulting in a slightly less sweet yet flavorful cocktail that highlights the tequila’s character. This refreshing take on the Margarita reflected a trend towards lighter, fresher dining and drinking experiences, especially prominent in California, which continues to influence culinary and bar culture today.
Similar to the classic version, the Tommy’s Margarita is typically shaken and served over ice in a salt-rimmed glass. Tommy’s Mexican, renowned for its vast selection of agave spirits, continues to serve the cocktail in large numbers. However, the Tommy’s Margarita has transcended its origin and is now a staple in bars worldwide, as many establishments and bartenders have embraced Bermejo’s emphasis on using 100% agave tequila, agave nectar, and fresh lime juice to create a delicious and distinct cocktail experience.
Cheers to the art of making the best cocktails and the enduring allure of Tommy’s Margarita!
