When it comes to enjoying a refreshing margarita with a view, Lake of the Ozarks delivers. Whether you prefer a classic lime margarita on the rocks or a creative frozen concoction, the Lake has plenty of hotspots to satisfy your craving. Here are the best bars to grab a margarita at Lake of the Ozarks.
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Coconuts Caribbean Beach Bar & Grill
???? Location: 4948 Osage Beach Pkwy, Osage Beach
If you're looking for a tropical vibe with your margarita, Coconuts is the place to be. Known for their laid-back atmosphere and lakeside seating, they serve up delicious margaritas in a variety of flavors. Try their "Coconut Margarita" for a sweet, beachy twist.
Why Go?
Lakeside views
Fun, tropical atmosphere
Live music on weekends
The Shady Gator
???? Location: 1680 Sweet William Rd, Lake Ozark
A Lake of the Ozarks staple, The Shady Gator is famous for its party atmosphere and strong drinks. Their margaritas are a must-try, especially the "Gator Rita"—a potent blend of tequila, triple sec, and lime. Pair it with their lakeside deck for the ultimate experience.
Why Go?
Lively bar scene
Great for day drinking
Frequent live music
Backwater Jack’s
???? Location: 4345 Beach Dr, Osage Beach
Backwater Jack’s is a favorite for those who love a good margarita with a side of entertainment. Their "Jackarita" is a crowd-pleaser, and the bar often hosts themed parties and live bands. The tiki-style atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for vacation vibes.
Why Go?
Tiki bar aesthetic
Strong, flavorful margaritas
Fun events (like foam parties)
Margaritaville Lake Resort
???? Location: 494 Tan Tar A Estates, Osage Beach
Inspired by Jimmy Buffett’s legendary brand, Margaritaville Lake Resort serves up some of the best margaritas at the Lake. Whether you prefer frozen or on the rocks, their drinks are expertly crafted. Don’t miss their "Who’s to Blame Margarita"—a perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
Why Go?
Resort-style luxury
High-quality ingredients
Stunning lake views
The Blue Cat Lounge & Grill
???? Location: 1680 Sweet William Rd, Lake Ozark
Located near The Shady Gator, The Blue Cat Lounge is another great spot for margaritas. Their "Blue Cat Rita" is a local favorite, featuring a signature blend of top-shelf tequila and fresh lime. The laid-back vibe makes it ideal for a relaxing happy hour.
Why Go?
Chill atmosphere
Great food pairings
Friendly bartenders
Shorty Pants Lounge & Marina
???? Location: 1680 Sweet William Rd, Lake Ozark
Owned by the same team as The Shady Gator, Shorty Pants Lounge offers a more upscale setting with equally fantastic margaritas. Their "Cajun Rita" adds a spicy kick, perfect for those who like a little heat with their drink.
Why Go?
Elevated bar experience
Unique margarita flavors
Great Cajun-inspired food
The Ultimate Margarita Recipe Guidebook
6 Classic, Creative, and Crafted Margarita Recipes
Few cocktails are as universally loved as the margarita. Whether you prefer it shaken, blended, sweet, or spicy, there’s a perfect margarita for every occasion. This guidebook covers a variety of margarita recipes—from the timeless classic to inventive twists.
1. The Classic Margarita
The gold standard of margaritas—simple, balanced, and refreshing.
Ingredients:
2 oz (60ml) tequila blanco (100% agave)
1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
1 oz (30ml) Cointreau or triple sec
½ oz (15ml) agave syrup (optional, for sweetness)
Salt (for rimming, optional)
Lime wedge (for garnish)
Instructions:
Rim a glass with salt (optional).
In a shaker, combine tequila, lime juice, orange liqueur, and agave syrup with ice.
Shake well (about 15 seconds).
Strain into a glass over fresh ice.
Garnish with a lime wedge.
2. Spicy Jalapeño Margarita
A fiery twist with a kick of heat.
Ingredients:
2 oz (60ml) reposado tequila
1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
½ oz (15ml) agave syrup
½ oz (15ml) orange liqueur
2–3 jalapeño slices (muddled or infused)
Tajín or chili salt (for rimming)
Instructions:
Muddle jalapeño slices in a shaker.
Add tequila, lime juice, agave, and orange liqueur with ice.
Shake vigorously and double-strain into a Tajín-rimmed glass.
Garnish with a jalapeño slice.
3. Frozen Strawberry Margarita
A sweet, slushy summer favorite.
Ingredients:
2 oz (60ml) tequila blanco
1 oz (30ml) triple sec
1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
½ cup fresh or frozen strawberries
1 cup ice
½ oz (15ml) agave syrup (optional)
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Pour into a chilled glass (salt or sugar rim optional).
Garnish with a strawberry slice.
4. Mezcal Smoky Margarita
A bold, smoky variation with mezcal.
Ingredients:
1½ oz (45ml) mezcal
½ oz (15ml) tequila reposado
1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
¾ oz (22ml) agave syrup
½ oz (15ml) orange liqueur
Smoked salt & lime wheel (for garnish)
Instructions:
Rim glass with smoked salt.
Shake all ingredients with ice.
Strain into the glass over a large ice cube.
Garnish with a lime wheel.
5. Coconut Lime Margarita (Tropical Twist)
A creamy, beachy margarita with coconut flavor.
Ingredients:
2 oz (60ml) tequila blanco
1 oz (30ml) coconut cream
1 oz (30ml) fresh lime juice
½ oz (15ml) agave syrup
½ oz (15ml) triple sec
Toasted coconut flakes (for rimming)
Instructions:
Rim glass with toasted coconut.
Shake all ingredients with ice.
Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
Garnish with lime zest or a coconut flake sprinkle.
6. Cucumber Mint Margarita
A crisp, refreshing herbal margarita.
Ingredients:
2 oz (60ml) tequila blanco
¾ oz (22ml) fresh lime juice
½ oz (15ml) agave syrup
3–4 cucumber slices (muddled)
5–6 fresh mint leaves
Soda water (optional, for a spritz)
Instructions:
Muddle cucumber and mint in a shaker.
Add tequila, lime juice, and agave syrup.
Shake with ice and strain into a glass.
Top with soda water (optional).
Garnish with cucumber and mint.
Bonus: Margarita Pro Tips
✅ Always use fresh lime juice—no bottled substitutes!
✅ Salt rim alternatives: Tajín, chili powder, or sugar.
✅ For a stronger drink, use less agave or skip it.
✅ Experiment with infusions: pineapple, mango, or hibiscus.
Final Thoughts
Whether you're boating, relaxing by the water, or just looking for a fun night out, Lake of the Ozarks has no shortage of amazing margarita spots. From tropical tiki bars to high-energy party hubs, there’s something for every margarita lover.
Pro Tip: Many of these bars offer happy hour specials, so check their schedules for the best deals!
Which spot will you try first? Cheers! ????
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