The origin of margaritas remains a mystery. There are several legends, but it’s anyone’s guess who mixed the first tequila-based summer cocktail. Some believe the “perfect” margarita is impossible to achieve when it can be mixed so many different ways. Sticking to the basics — serving the treat neat, on the rocks or frozen with salt or sugar sprinkled on the rim — these four Queen City establishments are making strides toward perfecting the margarita. – Jeff Hawkins

La Paz Restaurante

1910 South Boulevard, No. 100
Charlotte, N.C. 28203
704-372-4168
www.lapazcharlotte.com

Honored by several publications for its upscale Mexican dining, La Paz started in Charlotte as a family restaurant 29 years ago. Under new management and recently renovated with new décor and refinished floors, La Paz has entered a new era, with four flat screen TVs and a new bar. Thankfully, the favored “Original Margarita” has the same traditional recipe. Hours: Monday through Wednesday, 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m.; Sunday, 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Prickly Pear

761 North Main Street
Mooresville, N.C. 28115
704-799-0875
www.pricklypear.net

Serving modern Mexican cuisine for lunch and dinner and located in an old church, Prickly Pear has also blessed Lake Norman with its margaritas. It’s signature mix is the “Prickly Pear Margarita.” Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; Friday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m.; Saturday, 5 p.m. to 10:30 p.m,.; Sunday, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Cabo Fish Taco

3201 North Davidson Street
Charlotte, N.C. 28205
704-332-8868
www.cabofishtaco.com

For something a bit different located in the eclectic NoDa district, Cabo Fish Taco is developing into a trendy diversion, featuring “El Cheapo” margaritas to help with the budget. “The Perfect Wave” is the house special. Hours: Monday through Thursday, 11:30 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Friday and Saturday, 11:30 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Margarita Man of Charlotte

10140 Thomas Payne Circle
Charlotte, N.C.
704-651-8184
www.margaritamancharlotte.com

Throwing a party can be hard work. Let the Margarita Man deliver a frozen drink machine. Margaritas are among 18 adult frozen drinks that will be readily available so you can enjoy your own party with friends. There is free delivery, set-up and pick up. Hours: Monday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.