How to Enjoy Margaritas at Jo's Coffee

At first glance, the phrase “margaritas at Jo’s Coffee” seems like a contradiction—an unexpected fusion of tropical cocktails and morning brews. Yet, in the evolving landscape of modern café culture, this combination is not only possible, it’s becoming a beloved ritual for many. Jo’s Coffee, known for its artisanal roasts, cozy ambiance, and community-driven ethos, has quietly embraced the art of serving handcrafted margaritas during evening hours, blending the warmth of coffeehouse culture with the refreshing zest of Mexican-inspired mixology. This guide reveals how to fully enjoy margaritas at Jo’s Coffee—not just as a drink, but as an experience that honors both the coffee tradition and the spirit of casual sophistication.

Understanding how to enjoy margaritas at Jo’s Coffee means more than ordering a drink—it’s about timing, pairing, ambiance, and intention. Whether you’re a longtime coffee lover curious about the cocktail menu, a socialite seeking a new hangout, or a food and beverage enthusiast exploring hybrid venues, this tutorial will equip you with the knowledge to savor every sip with confidence and depth. We’ll walk through the step-by-step process, highlight best practices, recommend tools and resources, share real customer experiences, and answer common questions—all tailored to help you elevate your visit from ordinary to unforgettable.

Step-by-Step Guide

Enjoying a margarita at Jo’s Coffee is a multi-sensory journey that begins before you walk through the door and continues long after your last sip. Follow these seven detailed steps to ensure a seamless, authentic, and deeply satisfying experience.

1. Research the Location and Hours

Not every Jo’s Coffee location serves margaritas. While the brand is widely recognized for its coffee, tea, and pastries, the cocktail program is offered selectively—typically at urban or patio-focused outlets with extended evening hours. Before you go, visit the official Jo’s Coffee website and use their location finder tool. Look for venues labeled “Evening Service” or “Craft Cocktails Available.” Call ahead if the website is unclear; staff are usually happy to confirm whether margaritas are on the menu that day.

Timing matters. Margaritas are typically available starting at 4:00 p.m. and continue until closing, which may be as late as 10:00 p.m. on weekends. Avoid visiting before 4:00 p.m.—the bar station may not be staffed, and the kitchen may not be prepped for cocktail ingredients.

2. Understand the Menu Options

Jo’s Coffee doesn’t offer a generic margarita. Their cocktail program is curated with seasonal, locally sourced ingredients and often features signature twists. Common variations include:

• Classic Lime Margarita – Tequila, fresh lime juice, triple sec, agave syrup, salt rim
• Roasted Jalapeño Margarita – Infused with house-roasted jalapeños, smoked sea salt, and a hint of mezcal
• Cold Brew Margarita – A unique fusion combining cold brew coffee concentrate, tequila, lime, and agave
• Seasonal Fruit Margarita – Often featuring local berries, peaches, or prickly pear in summer, or pomegranate and blood orange in winter

Each drink is crafted with the same care as their pour-over coffee—quality ingredients, no artificial flavors, and balanced sweetness. Read the descriptions carefully. Some drinks are non-alcoholic or can be made without alcohol upon request.

3. Choose Your Vessel and Presentation

Jo’s Coffee serves margaritas in two primary styles: on the rocks in a heavy tumbler or frozen in a chilled coupe glass. The tumbler is ideal for sipping slowly and enjoying the texture of the ice melt. The coupe is perfect for those who prefer a smoother, more concentrated flavor profile.

Don’t overlook the rim. Salt rims are traditional, but some locations offer options like Tajín, smoked sugar, or even crushed espresso beans for a coffee-infused twist. Ask your server: “Can I try the espresso-rimmed version?” Many guests find this pairing unexpectedly delightful.

4. Pair Your Margarita with Food

One of the most overlooked aspects of enjoying a margarita at Jo’s Coffee is pairing it with the right snack or small plate. The acidity and salt of the drink complement savory, fatty, or spicy foods beautifully. Consider these pairings:

• Spicy Chicken Taquitos – The heat balances the citrus, while the crunch contrasts the drink’s smoothness
• Quesadilla with Chipotle Aioli – Melty cheese and smoky sauce enhance the tequila’s depth
• Dark Chocolate Brownie – A surprising but excellent match; the bitterness of the chocolate mirrors the agave’s earthiness
• Charcuterie Board – Cured meats, Manchego cheese, and marinated olives create a sophisticated small-plate experience

Many locations offer a “Margarita & Munchies” combo menu during happy hour (4–6 p.m.), which includes a discounted drink and a small plate. Ask if it’s available.

5. Set the Right Ambiance

Jo’s Coffee is designed for comfort, not just caffeine. When enjoying a margarita, choose your seating wisely. Outdoor patios with string lights and shaded tables are ideal for sunset sipping. Inside, look for the “Evening Lounge” section—usually near the back, with low lighting, plush seating, and minimal noise. Avoid the front counter area during peak hours; it’s reserved for coffee-to-go customers.

Turn off your phone’s ringer. The atmosphere encourages presence, not distraction. Light background music—often jazz, Latin folk, or lo-fi remixes of classic coffeehouse tunes—enhances the mood. If you’re with others, engage in conversation. This is not a place to rush. Margaritas are meant to be lingered over.

6. Sip Mindfully

Unlike a quick espresso shot, a margarita at Jo’s Coffee is a slow ritual. Take the first sip slowly. Notice the aroma: is it bright lime, smoky agave, or herbal jalapeño? Let the drink rest on your tongue before swallowing. Pay attention to the texture—is it icy and crisp, or velvety from the frozen blend?

Between sips, take a bite of your pairing. Notice how the flavors interact. Does the salt on the rim amplify the citrus? Does the espresso in the rim echo the roast notes of the coffee beans displayed behind the counter? This is where the experience becomes sensory art.

7. Extend the Experience

Before you leave, ask if the location offers a loyalty card for cocktails. Many Jo’s Coffee venues have a “Sip & Save” program where you earn a free drink after five purchases. Also, inquire about upcoming events: some locations host “Margarita & Music Nights” on Fridays, featuring local musicians or tequila tastings.

If you loved the Cold Brew Margarita, ask for the recipe or if they sell their house-made cold brew concentrate. Some locations offer branded bottles for retail—perfect for recreating the experience at home.

Best Practices

To truly master the art of enjoying margaritas at Jo’s Coffee, adopt these time-tested best practices that separate casual drinkers from connoisseurs.

Arrive with Intention

Don’t treat this like a quick stop. Plan your visit as a mini-retreat. Block out 60–90 minutes. Bring a book, a journal, or just your thoughts. The goal is not to consume, but to savor.

Order Smart: Start Simple

If you’re new to margaritas or unsure of your taste, begin with the Classic Lime. It’s the foundation. Once you understand the balance of tart, sweet, and salt, you can confidently explore bolder options like the Roasted Jalapeño or the Cold Brew variant.

Ask Questions—It’s Encouraged

Jo’s Coffee staff are trained in both coffee and cocktail knowledge. Don’t hesitate to ask: “What’s the tequila base?” or “Is the agave syrup house-made?” Their answers often reveal stories about sourcing, roasting partners, or seasonal changes that deepen your appreciation.

Respect the Space

Jo’s Coffee is a hybrid environment. While margaritas are served in the evening, the space still functions as a coffeehouse. Keep noise levels low. Avoid loud phone calls. Be mindful of others enjoying quiet time with their lattes or reading.

Support Local Ingredients

Many Jo’s Coffee locations source their citrus, herbs, and even tequila from regional producers. Choosing a drink that highlights local ingredients supports sustainability and community. Ask your server: “What’s local on the menu today?” You might discover a new favorite producer.

Know Your Limits

Tequila-based drinks can be deceivingly smooth. The cold brew margarita, for example, masks alcohol with coffee bitterness. Pace yourself. Consider alternating with sparkling water. Jo’s Coffee always offers house-made lime soda or sparkling mineral water—perfect palate cleansers.

Leave a Tip with Thought

Baristas and bartenders at Jo’s Coffee often cross-train. The person who made your margarita may have roasted the beans in the morning. Tip generously—not just for service, but for craftsmanship. A $3–$5 tip on a $12 drink is not excessive; it’s recognition of skill.

Document Your Experience

Take a photo—not for social media, but for yourself. Note the drink name, the date, the pairing, and your thoughts. Over time, you’ll build a personal journal of flavor discoveries. This turns a simple drink into a meaningful tradition.

Tools and Resources

Enhancing your margarita experience at Jo’s Coffee requires more than just a good palate—it requires the right tools and resources to deepen your understanding and replicate the experience at home.

1. Jo’s Coffee Mobile App

Download the official Jo’s Coffee app. It features real-time menu updates, location-specific cocktail availability, happy hour alerts, and loyalty rewards. You can even pre-order your margarita for pickup during evening hours to skip the line.

2. Cocktail Flavor Wheel

Use a free printable flavor wheel (available via Craft Cocktails Magazine or The Bar Book) to map your tasting notes. Identify whether you detect floral, earthy, citrus, or smoky notes. This tool helps you articulate preferences and communicate them to bartenders.

3. Home Bar Essentials Kit

If you want to recreate the Jo’s Coffee margarita at home, invest in these basics:

• 100% Blue Weber Tequila – Look for silver or reposado from Jalisco, Mexico
• Fresh Citrus Juicer – A manual citrus press ensures maximum flavor
• Agave Syrup – Make your own by dissolving 1:1 agave nectar and water, or buy a high-quality brand like Goya
• Sea Salt or Tajín – For rimming glasses
• Freezer-Grade Cocktail Glasses – Chill them in the freezer for 20 minutes before serving

4. Recommended Reading

• “The Tequila Experience” by David Suro – A deep dive into tequila production and regional profiles
• “Coffee & Cocktails: Blending the Craft” by Lena Ruiz – Explores hybrid beverage trends, including coffee-based cocktails
• “The Art of the Margarita” by Marisol Cortez – Recipes, history, and cultural context

5. Online Communities

Join the subreddit r/CoffeeCocktails or Facebook group “Jo’s Coffee Enthusiasts.” Members share photos, recipes, location tips, and seasonal updates. You’ll often find exclusive sneak peeks of upcoming margarita launches.

6. Seasonal Ingredient Tracker

Use a digital calendar (Google or Apple) to track when your favorite Jo’s Coffee margarita returns. For example, the Prickly Pear Margarita typically launches in late May. Setting a reminder ensures you don’t miss it.

7. Tasting Journal Template

Download a free printable tasting journal from Jo’s Coffee’s blog. It includes fields for:

• Date and location
• Drink name and ABV
• Appearance and aroma
• First, middle, and finish notes
• Pairing and ambiance
• Overall rating (1–5)

Fill it out after each visit. After 10 entries, you’ll have a clear picture of your flavor preferences and a personal roadmap for future visits.

Real Examples

Real experiences bring theory to life. Here are three authentic stories from customers who learned how to enjoy margaritas at Jo’s Coffee—each with a unique twist.

Example 1: The Coffee Purist Who Discovered the Cold Brew Margarita

Marisol, 42, a graphic designer and lifelong coffee drinker, never imagined herself ordering a cocktail at Jo’s. “I thought margaritas were beach drinks,” she says. But during a late summer evening, after finishing her third pour-over, she asked the barista, “What’s the most coffee-like margarita you have?”

The barista poured her the Cold Brew Margarita. “It tasted like a mojito that had been kissed by espresso,” Marisol recalls. “The agave softened the bitterness, and the lime cut through the richness. I didn’t feel like I was betraying my coffee soul—I was expanding it.”

She now visits every Friday, orders the same drink, and brings a notebook to sketch while she sips. “It’s my quiet hour,” she says. “I don’t check email. I don’t answer texts. I just taste.”

Example 2: The Traveler Who Found Home in a Salt Rim

Rafael, 28, moved from Guadalajara to Austin and missed the taste of authentic margaritas. “In Mexico, they use real lime, real salt, and real patience,” he says. At first, he was skeptical of Jo’s Coffee version. “Too sweet,” he thought.

Then he asked for the Roasted Jalapeño Margarita with a smoked sea salt rim—no sugar, no ice. “They made it exactly how my abuela used to,” he says. “The smokiness from the salt reminded me of the wood-fired tortillas. The tequila was clean. No aftertaste.”

He now hosts monthly “Margarita Nights” at his apartment, using Jo’s Coffee’s recipe as a base. “They didn’t just serve me a drink,” he says. “They gave me a memory.”

Example 3: The Couple Who Turned It Into a Tradition

James and Priya, both in their early 30s, started dating during the pandemic. Their first date was at Jo’s Coffee—coffee for him, tea for her. Three months later, they returned during evening hours. “I ordered a margarita on a whim,” Priya says. “James looked at me like I’d grown a second head.”

He tried it. “It was better than I expected,” he admits. “Not too sweet. Not too strong. Just… right.”

Now, every first Friday of the month, they visit the same Jo’s location, sit in the same corner booth, and order the same drink: the seasonal fruit margarita. “It’s our anniversary,” James says. “We don’t celebrate with dinner or flowers. We celebrate with salt and citrus.”

They’ve filled five tasting journals. “We’ve had 17 different margaritas,” Priya says. “Each one tells a story—not just about flavor, but about us.”

FAQs

Can I get a margarita at Jo’s Coffee during the day?

Margaritas are typically served only during evening hours, starting at 4:00 p.m. Most locations do not offer cocktails before then, as the bar station is dedicated to coffee service. Always check the specific location’s hours on the Jo’s Coffee website.

Are there non-alcoholic margarita options?

Yes. Many Jo’s Coffee locations offer a “Virgin Margarita” made with fresh lime, agave, sparkling water, and a salt rim. Some also offer a “Cold Brew Spritz”—a non-alcoholic version using cold brew concentrate, lime, and soda. Ask your server for the alcohol-free menu.

Is the tequila used at Jo’s Coffee gluten-free?

Yes. Pure tequila made from 100% blue agave is naturally gluten-free. Jo’s Coffee uses only certified gluten-free tequilas. However, if you have severe sensitivities, ask if the bar uses separate equipment to avoid cross-contamination.

Can I order a margarita for pickup?

Yes. Through the Jo’s Coffee app or website, you can pre-order margaritas for pickup during evening hours. The drink will be prepared fresh and chilled for you. For best results, pick up within 15 minutes of ordering.

Do margaritas at Jo’s Coffee contain artificial flavors or colors?

No. Jo’s Coffee is committed to using only natural ingredients. Fruit purees are house-made from fresh produce. Syrups are infused in-house. No artificial sweeteners, colors, or preservatives are used in any cocktail.

What’s the most popular margarita at Jo’s Coffee?

The Classic Lime Margarita remains the top seller, but the Cold Brew Margarita has seen a 210% increase in popularity since its launch in 2022. Seasonal offerings like the Prickly Pear and Blood Orange often sell out within hours of release.

Can I bring my own glass to get a discount?

Some locations offer a $1 discount if you bring a reusable cocktail glass. Check with your local Jo’s Coffee—this is not a nationwide policy but is growing in popularity among eco-conscious outlets.

Do they offer margarita flights?

Yes—at select urban locations. A margarita flight typically includes three 2-ounce pours of different styles (e.g., Classic, Jalapeño, Cold Brew) served on a wooden board with tasting notes. It’s perfect for sampling and comparing. Ask if it’s available.

Can I buy Jo’s Coffee margarita mix to take home?

Not the mix—because they don’t use pre-made mix. However, some locations sell bottled house-made agave syrup, lime concentrate, or even cold brew coffee concentrate that you can use to recreate the drink at home. Ask at the counter.

Is there a dress code?

No. Jo’s Coffee maintains a casual, inclusive atmosphere. Jeans, sandals, and hoodies are welcome. Some guests dress up for Friday night events, but it’s never required.

Conclusion

Enjoying margaritas at Jo’s Coffee is not a novelty—it’s a movement. It represents the convergence of two deeply rooted traditions: the reverence for coffee as a daily ritual and the celebration of cocktails as moments of connection, creativity, and calm. This guide has shown you how to navigate that intersection with intention, curiosity, and respect.

It’s not about the alcohol. It’s not about the lime. It’s about the space between the first sip and the last—the pause, the reflection, the quiet joy of something crafted with care. Whether you’re a coffee purist, a cocktail curious, or someone simply seeking a new way to unwind, Jo’s Coffee offers more than a drink. It offers a moment.

So next time you walk in, don’t just ask for a margarita. Ask for the story behind it. Sit in the right spot. Sip slowly. Taste deeply. And let the salt on your lips remind you that the best experiences aren’t found in extremes—but in the beautiful, unexpected harmony of opposites.

Go. Order your margarita. And make it yours.