For 18 years, the World Margarita Championship has pit chefs and mixologists against one another, vying for coveted Judge’s and People’s Choice awards.
On Saturday, June 14, the celebrated culinary festival returns to the Westward Look Wyndham for the second consecutive year, providing a historic backdrop to proceedings.
The event features over 30 restaurants competing for titles such as Best Signature Margarita and Best Bite. A longstanding co-production of the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) and Tucson Originals Restaurant, it’s going to offer attendees a high-energy evening of some of the Southwest’s best crafting cocktail and food pairings.
2025 competitors include establishments like Amelia’s Mexican Kitchen, Brother John’s, Dante’s Fire, and Bisbee Breakfast Club — all of whom have become staples of summer food fests like this. Westward Look Wyndham’s Palm restaurant is playing with a homefield advantage — last year, they tied with Dante’s for the People’s Pick for Best Bite.
Sometimes, it’s someone from left field who sweeps the competition. Previous winners have eschewed traditional margarita styles with innovative takes on the classic drink, while others have perfected the standard. This year, it could be anyone’s game, including newcomers like the Westin La Paloma or the Leo Kent’s St. Cruz Restaurant.
Every year, the championship continues to grow as a proving ground for both established culinary heavyweights and emerging talents. Competitors are encouraged to not only craft a good sip but also to tell a story through its flavors. This year’s offerings promise innovative drinks, such as margs made with serranos and elote, along with tasty accompaniments like barbacoa and pork belly tacos, ceviche, and tamarind candies. Expect playful showmanship with more unconventional offerings alongside perfected classics.
More than just a competition, the 21-and-older event offers attendees a snapshot of local arts and culture. Snapshots of Tucson’s vibrant artistic community can be felt throughout the event, with it boasting live painters, a DJ and local celebrity emcee, folklorico dancers and even strolling appearances from a luchador and a magician.
“The Prophet” will return for photo opps with guests, dressed up in the same wrestling gear that he has previously brought to the ring during the Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge. DJ David Jimenez and emcee Frank Powers will keep the house moving throughout the event’s 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. runtime. In the Gold Room, Eduardo Costa will play classical guitar as VIP ticketholders enjoy exclusive offerings from Westward Look Wyndham.
“Dr. Penguin” will share his pop-up magic act with attendees, and well-regarded artists, including Jesse Perry and Donovan White, will accent the event with their live painting. Los Mextucaz will entertain those waiting in line with lively folklorico dance, and the Palm Restaurant will be activated with more live music from acoustic pop and soul performer, Miguel Melgoza.
The World Margarita poises itself as more than just a fun night out for attendees. It is a fundraising event for SAACA, with ticket sales benefitting the nonprofit that hosts year-round arts and cultural programming. This includes the Oro Valley Summer Concert Series and the upcoming Salsa, Tequila & Taco Challenge on Saturday, Aug. 30.
While VIP tickets are sold out, general admission tickets are still on sale for the event at $80 a head. Ticketholders are welcome to not only go around the ballroom to sample sips and bites once, but multiple times, while enjoying the festive atmosphere.
World Margarita Championship
WHEN: 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Saturday, June 14
WHERE: Westward Look Wyndham, 245 E. Ina Road, Oro Valley
COST: $80 general admission
INFO: saaca.org
This article appears in Jun 5-12, 2025.