Hot Shots
Give these splashy spring cocktails a spin.
Why not observe the Mexican holiday of Cinco de Mayo by brushing up on your tequila basics at these tastings and dinners?
In Austin, Santa Rita Tex Mex Cantina hosts Tequila Tuesdays the first Tuesday of each month from 6 to 8. On May 3, a distributing-company rep will conduct a tasting of Patrón and Espolón brands, with appetizers and live entertainment. 1206 W. 38th, 512-419-7482; $10, reservations recommended.
The five Metroplex locations of Blue Mesa Grill offer lively tasting parties on the second Tuesday of each month from 5 to 7. On May 10, six Sauza tequilas will be featured, along with appetizers, tejano music, and a raffle for prizes. 5100 Belt Line Road, Addison; 972-934-0165 (call for other locations); $7.
Tequila flights and tequila-accented prix fixe dinners are always on the menu at Ciudad, in Dallas. In May, the featured brand is El Tesoro. 3888 Oak Lawn Avenue, 214-219-3141; most flights $10, dinner $48, reservations recommended.
At Hugo’s, in Houston, monthly multicourse dinners conducted by sommelier Sean Beck explore the nuances of tequila; on May 25, the theme will be the tequilas, mescals, and seven moles of Oaxaca. In addition, the restaurant offers tastings on request. 1600 Westheimer Road, 713-524-7744; dinner $75, reservations required.
The new monthly tequila dinners at Pico’s, also in Houston, will feature the Herradura label on May 4 at 8. These immersion courses include margaritas, a tasting conducted by a company rep, and a meal of tequila-tinged dishes (tequila Key lime pie has been a big hit). 5941 Bellaire Boulevard, 713-662-8383; $50, reservations required.
On the last Thursday of each month, San Antonio’s Paloma Blanca Mexican Cuisine offers appetizers and a guided tequila tasting conducted by a company rep from 6 to 8. The Corralejo brand will be featured on May 26. 5800 Broadway, 210-822-6151; free.
