At the end of a laneway off Clarence Street in the CBD, this small but mighty bar – which has ranked in The World’s 50 Best Bars list twice – is often called home to Sydney’s best margarita, and the claim is easy to believe. The menu is short and uncomplicated, with the signature margarita combining tequila, mezcal, lime and orange oil, served at sub-zero temps thanks to a healthy mountain of hand-shaved ice. Seating is limited, but that adds to the vibe – grab a standing spot at the bar and get ready for a second round. Council Pl, Sydney CBD; muchogroup.com.au/cantina-ok

Part cocktail bar, part dance floor, part restaurant, El Primo Sanchez knows its way around a margarita. Whether you’re tempted by the signature ‘Primo’ margarita – a mix of Patrón Silver tequila, mezcal and lime – or the fruity ‘Tropical’ with passionfruit puree, lime and mango syrup, it’s easy to see why people linger in this late-night spot. Now calling Crown Street in Surry Hills home (the bar relocated recently from Paddington) the cocktail-forward drinks menu is coupled with a strong lineup of tequila and mezcal, a team of skilled bartenders, and Latin-American bites from the kitchen. 410 Crown St, Surry Hills; elprimosanchez.com

Is it Cronulla, or a little town on the Mediterranean coast? You’d be forgiven for losing track when you’re sitting at Bobbys beneath the orange-and-white striped umbrellas on the south end of Cronulla Beach. A dedicated margarita menu ensures good times are practically guaranteed, with options to suit every taste. The classic and Tommy’s are reliable choices, but the inventive twists are worth exploring too. The standout? The Sicilian Margarita, a bright mix of El Jimador Reposado tequila, limoncello, honey and lemon that balances sweet, citrusy and boozy notes, and comes served with plenty of ice. 6R The Esplanade, Cronulla; bobbyscronulla.com.au

If variety is your thing, Alma in Avalon is a must-visit for margarita lovers. The menu includes at least five different margaritas (with seasonal additions, too) alongside palomas and mezcalitas for something a little different. Spicy-marg fans should go straight for the Jalapeño Margarita, while those after a classic can enjoy the Tommy’s, served on the rocks in line with the original 1987 recipe. Trying to cut back? There’s also a non-alc option (the Sensible Margarita) that can be customised as a classic, Tommy’s or Jalapeño, made with Lyres non-alcoholic spirit and lime. 47 Old Barrenjoey Rd, Avalon Beach; almaavalon.com.au

Whether you prefer a smoky margarita, a large margie to share, or even a beer-garita, Calaveras Mexican Cantina and Tequila Bar has you sorted. Sample the Calaveras Margarita with tequila, fresh lime, agave and a chilli salted glass. Level 1/324A King St, Newtown; calaverasmexican.com.au

It would be remiss of diners to visit Glebe’s popular Mexican eatery without first enjoying one of its margaritas. Salt rim optional. 43-45 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe; bajacantina.com.au

Where better to get your margarita fix than at Surry Hills’ liveliest Mexican joint? Team your icy cocktail with a taco and you’ll forget your in Sydney. 64 Foveaux St, Surry Hills; merivale.com/excelsior

If there’s one Sydney locale you where you can be guaranteed a decent margarita, it’s at a specialist tequila bar. And, at Tequila Mocking, you can build your own margarita based on your every whim. 6 Heeley St, Paddington; tequila-mockingbird.com.au

A full margarita menu is on offer at much-loved Chica Bonita in Manly. Try the coconut and lime margarita for a tropical twist on the sour swill. 9 The Corso, Manly; chicabonita.com.au

With four margaritas, including a chipotle and a jalapeño margarita, you might say Bar Patron specialises in this golden drop. And, there’s also the frozen variety for when temperatures rise. 2 Phillip St, Sydney; barpatron.com.au