(from left to right: Strawberry Margarita, Luxury Margarita, Calamansi and Assam Margarita)

Today, Margaritas come in dozens of versions as you will discover wading through the underbelly of KL’s bar scene. As expected, the evolution of the cocktail upsets some aficionados, who deem that Margaritas should stay true to the original recipe. Whichever way you like it, here are three spots in town to catch a cool Margarita.

Strawberry Margarita at Luna (RM38)
Tequila, Triple Sec, sweet and sour mix, lime cordial, strawberry puree
We applaud the use of strawberry puree instead of some generic foul-tasting cordial. We predict that this drink will be very popular with the ladies – think of it as the oversized handbag wielding Irish big sister of the strawberry frappe.

Luxury Margarita at Casbah (RM44)
Tequila, Cointreau, lime sour, pomegranate foam, cranberries
The usual tradition of serving in a Margarita glass is forsaken; this drink is served in a highball glass. The layer of pomegranate foam masks the strong aftertaste of the tequila more so than a regular Margarita with a fruity, sweet flavour. The addition of cranberries is merely an icing on the cake.

Calamansi and Asam Margarita at Palate Palette (RM22)
Sauza Gold tequila, Triple Sec, sweet and sour, sugar syrup, calamansi limes, asam powder
Nothing spells localised like this tangy treat. An alcoholic take on a favourite kopitiam drink, the fresh limes and the asam powder work the same way as the traditional recipe to mask the strong flavours of the tequila.

We tell you how to make a classic Margarita at home.