Who Makes the Best Margarita in Tucson? Tucson Originals Restaurants vie for the Title at 14th Annual World Margarita Championship on August 2nd

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance and Tucson Originals partner to showcase the culinary assets of Tucson and contribute to cultural development 

The Tucson Originals Restaurants will raise a glass to cocktail creativity and perfection behind the bar as they go head-to-head for a creative community cause on Friday, August 2, 2019 at the Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa at the 14th Annual World Margarita Championship.
 
The competition, featuring refreshingly unique twists on the iconic cocktail, offers attendees the chance to indulge in over 20 expertly prepared margarita samples and food pairings. From smoked margaritas paired with crisp chocolate covered bacon to sesame and passion fruit infused margaritas with tequila cured salmon, once fans have explored each of the margaritas, they can vote for their favorite interpretation. The event will also feature live music, arts installations and a raffle throughout the evening. Raffle baskets include hundreds of dollars in prizes donated by community and event partners and tickets are on sale now for only $10 for 2 tickets and $20 for 5.

"The participants at the World Margarita Championship go beyond a simple, classic margarita and transform them into masterpieces," says Mat Cable, Events Chair of Tucson Original Restaurants. "Using inspiration from local ingredients, stunning garnishes, great tequila, and Southwest flair, these inspired drinks are elevated into true works of art."

A team of local celebrity judges will be on site to award one proud local restaurant with the title of “Best Margarita”. Previous 2018 award winners include:

Judges Choice for Margarita
1st Place: The Tequila Factory @ Casino Del Sol -- Hielo Verde Margarita
2nd Place: Fresco Pizzeria -- Bitter Orange Margarita
3rd Place: Lodge on the Desert Restaurant-- "Kiss Me Through the Foam" Margarita
 
People's Choice for Margarita
1st Place: Rigo's Restaurant -- Dragon Margarita
2nd Place: Chef Chic -- Purple Blossom Margarita
3rd Place: Guadalajara Mexican Grill -- Spicy Mango Margarita
 
Best Menu Sample
Judges Choice: The Tequila Factory @ Casino Del Sol -- Chiltepin & White Sonoran Wheat Salad
People's Choice: Rigo's Restaurant -- Barbacoa

Tickets for the 14th Annual World Margarita Championship are on sale now for $60
(a 21+ event) and include libation and menu samplings from participating restaurants and purveyors. Proceeds from the event help to support the Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance's (SAACA) creative arts programs throughout Arizona as well as Tucson Original Restaurants efforts to raise awareness of the rich and vibrant culinary community in Tucson.

 
World Margarita Championship  
When: Friday, August 2nd at 6:30 PM
Where: Westward Look Wyndham Grand Resort & Spa, 245 E Ina Rd, Tucson, AZ 85704
Tickets: $60 (Must be 21+ and have valid ID for entry)
Online: https://www.saaca.org/worldmargarita.html
Phone: (520) 797-3959 x 107
 
NOTE TO MEDIA: Photos available upon request

Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance
The Southern Arizona Arts & Cultural Alliance (SAACA) is a not-for-profit organization that exists to promote engagement in arts and culture, helping our communities produce strong, inspired citizens. SAACA enlists artists, businesses, governments, and individuals to expand artistic and cultural opportunities in their respective communities. To enhance access to the arts and to promote cultural awareness in the communities it serves, SAACA presents large-scale festivals, events and other programs. The Alliance also promotes educational opportunities in the arts and culture for all ages.
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Tucson Originals 
Formed in 1999, the Tucson Originals is Tucson’s premier group of independently owned, fine dining, casual and neighborhood restaurants. They promote the value of Tucson’s independent restaurants and support Tucson’s culinary diversity. Tucson Originals have been the driving force and model for similar groups all across America who are working to preserve the culinary spirit of their communities. With the rapid rise of chain eateries, this alliance has helped many of Tucson’s signature restaurants survive and thrive.