Pretty average Ameri-Mex fare. The best thing I can say about them is they are consistent. Consistently average, but consistent nonetheless. If you order the same dish at any one of their many locations on any day, it will always look and taste the same. I give them credit for good quality control. I've been to five of their locations and food is identical. Decent but uninspired generic chain restaurant style fare. The best bet is the appetizers,they do make good nachos. Real cheese, oven fired, nice and melty with lots of fresh toppings. For a place named "Margaritas", I'd expect a decent drink of the same name. Sadly, like 99% of all restaurants, they make them using the same crappy bottled mix everyone else does.
(3)
Shane L.
Now, I know that this is a "chain" mexican restaurant and I usually would not give a place like this 4 stars in my review but every single time that we have been here, whether on team outings or just meeting friends, we have always had a really enjoyable experience. And this includes all of the establishments all the way up to Orono, downtown Portland off of Congress, in Auburn and this one. Last night we met with some friends on ladies night for a couple of pops/margaritas and some quick food and again, had a great time. When we first got there, it was pretty busy and packed to the gills with patrons enjoying some mexican fare. We bellied up to the bar to wait a bit for the table where we had a friendly bartender serving us up a couple of tall and cold Dos Equis (not on special because my bud and I are not of the female persuasion) but that's ok it was still cold and thirst busting. We were then sat with immediate fresh and warm tortilla chips and a chunky salsa, which is my personal preference. It tasted both fresh and a perfect combination of cool and warm with the light and crispy tortilla chips. I know I am describing this pretty thoroughly but I feel that the tortilla chips and salsa are a true barometer of whether a mexican restaurant is going to be enjoyable for me. Weird I know. We were then served our entrees which all came out piping hot and fresh and I did not hear any complaints around the table ... all compliments. With the biggest hit being the baby chicken chimis with the sauce. I personally got the aztec shrimp quesadilla and it was very tasty and tasted authentic with a delicious dipping sauce to add to the flavor. It was both cheesy and had just enough spice. The waitress was prompt and on the ball with refills even though she had a ton of tables to tend to. She was also very personable and funny cracking jokes and splitting the check like 4 ways (which I know is sometimes a pain in the keester) but she did it willingly and efficiently. The ambiance is dimly lit in the evening and is very crowded in some areas of the restaurant and can get very loud but I think that if you are a return person to the establishment, you have come to expect it. Also, if you go on ladies night, let me tell you there are a lot of ladies taking advantage and having some fun! If you are looking for authenticity and a foodie kind of place, then you might not be looking Margaritas, but if you are looking for good food, fun atmosphere, then check them out, you will enjoy it.
First off, let me say that every time I've been here it's been with a large group. There's a cheery Tex-Mex atmosphere and the food is consistently good. It's also open a bit later than some of the smaller restaurants around old port, so it's got that. In a town where everything closes at 10p, being open later is a huge deal for me. I come from New York, where we get used to being able to get food at 3am if you want. No so in Maine. There's a full bar, good Margaritas - obviously - and Thursday night trivia games. it's a great place to hang out with friends.
(4)
J S.
Excellent food and service. The only thing I do not like about this place is the parking situation. The surrounding neighborhood is a little sketchy, and you have to park in the dark parking lot behind the building (park out front, you will get towed). Otherwise, this is a great place to get some Mexican food. $$$
(4)
Jane N.
Music in lounge wayyy too loud to have a conversation. It is definitely dance club loud!! The waitress could not be nicer!!! Her name is Ashley!! Adorable and very attentive. The place emptied out when happy hour pricing ended.
(3)
Alise K.
Ehhhh just ok food here. We ate in the bar and I will say the service is great. Don't love their salsa and we ordered all the basic Mexican selections. ( tacos , burritos etc. ) friendly crowd and its a good place to go before the sea dogs game.
(3)
Steff D.
Margaritas is Margaritas, right? With currently 25 locations throughout Maine, Mass., NH, CT, and Pennsylvania there's one thing you ALWAYS know about a Margaritas: it's gonna taste the same, look the same, feel the same regardless of which one you're at. What makes each special is really the staff. I've had both an exceptional customer service experience here (my most recent experience; they literally bent over backwards to make us feel welcome and accomodate our every need) and a really, very terrible one (my experience before last, I was here to do a Dos XX promotion and the manager screamed at us to get out and leave her customers alone despite the fact that she was the very one who requested we be there). I've had the nachos here... they're just so-so. I never feel like there's enough toppings on their chips, so it ends up being a really dry, salty experience. I've had the queso dip here... and I agree entirely with what another reviewer has said: it really is a pan full of fried, greasy cheese. And if you eat it right away, you'll burn your mouth. If you don't eat it right away, it becomes one giant, solidified piece of waxy cheese. The struggle. I've had the guacamole here... AND IT'S REAL GOOD. Like really, really, really darn good. Dare I say, it's actually better than what most of the "fancy" Mexican places in town offer. Specifically their basic guacamole - it says it's handmade and fresh, and it actually smells, looks, tastes that way! Green and lovely. My friends had the bacon guacamole and said it was a little weird; and, the jalapeño guacamole is possibly the hottest thing I've ever put in my mouth ever. EVER. So don't order it unless you REALLY love spice, need to clear your sinuses out, or have gallons upon gallons of drink to wash it down with. Margaritas is AMAZING to local non-profits though, as they often have nights where a percentage of your bill goes to support such-and-such. They also have a ton of weekly specials, including: Monday through Friday: From 3-6pm, in the bar and lounge, get $5 Margaritas, $4 Dos Equis drafts, $2.50 Bud Light drafts, $3.00 Tecate cans, $1.50 baby chimis, and 5 appetizers for just $5! Monday: All you can eat tacos for only $7.99! Tuesday: All you can eat tacos for only $7.99! Wednesday: Health Care Night: health care staff receives 25% off meals as well as $5 strawberry and regular margaritas. Thursday: Ladies Night: receive 25% off your meals as well as $5 strawberry and regular margaritas! Here, there, or everywhere... Margaritas is definitely good for their specials, signature drink, and guacamole (seriously!).
(2)
John S.
Margaritas on St John street used to be one of my favorite places. Solid food and drinks, good service fun atmosphere. Tonight's experience was awful on many levels. Half empty restaurant terrible drinks ( Mexican mojito) stale chips, dry, old tasting chicken tacos. Appetizer and entree came within 5 minutes of each other, drinks took another 10 minutes. Stay away. Judging from all of the empty tables, many people already are.
(1)
Diane P.
Went to Margaritas on Cinco de Mayo expecting food and drink specials and maybe some fun giveaways.....not so much. Apparently, Margaritas decided that it would be a fun idea to start celebrating Cinco de Mayo on Friday, May 1st and continue until Monday, May 4th....then have no food or drink specials on the actual Cinco...really? How weird is that? Unless you just want to fill the seats on the weekend and slow Monday night. In past years, they have had the all you can eat tacos or at least something. No freebies like keychain bottle openers or flower garlands or the little glow in the dark bracelets this year either...the manager on duty stated that 2 large groups of 30 each had been there when they opened the doors at lunch and totally "ransacked" the freebies baskets so there was nothing left except a small stack of small straw hats and a few flower garlands...the rest of the freebies were reserved for trivia that didn't start until 7 pm. As it was now 4 pm, we were not sticking around for that. The food is the same tasty creations as always, the atmosphere is the same, and the service was, as always, good....nothing special marking it as Cinco de Mayo at all. Still had a nice meal but could have gone somewhere else and had the same with more fun.
(2)
Karen R.
I eat out a lot and consider Margaritas to be among my favorite local restaurants. When I am in the mood for a margarita and mexican I am always satisfied here. This is a place where we can also bring the kids. They have a great kids menu, our kids love the food and sticky string activity they give to keep them busy while waiting. If am a big fan of their fish taco meal, but the last time I went I had the chicken quesadilla and think it was the best I have ever had. Loaded with meat, cheese and veggies, and not soggy. Margaritas also makes some of the best margaritas around. They must be pros since it is their name! I tried for the first time a Coronarita and now have a new favorite beverage to go with my meal. The bar area of the St. John's street location is large and relaxing. When going without the kids we like to sit there and eat our meals. This is a popular meeting place for friends...especially on Full Moon Madness...lots of specials, prizes and fun!
(4)
Adria R.
Very average tex-mex food (not to be confused with Mexican). Tonight we just had appetizers, which were all fine but not spectacular. The nachos are very large and pretty tasty. The "Queso" appetizer is basically a frying pan full of fried mozzarella cheese, so kinda gross. The guacamole is fresh and tasty. I ordered a margarita, and for a restaurant of the same name I'd expect a better drink. They use a mix, which is a bummer.
(3)
Jeannie Y.
Used to LOVE this place. I think they changed their recipes last year. . The Chicken Chimichangas that I used to order every visit are very different. The chicken is no longer fresh and shredded with cheese. It is a precooked cubed chicken that has a weird texture. It is gross. Had the fajitas recently... guess what? Same disgusting precooked chicken with fake grill marks. Oh and the portions are A LOT smaller than they used to be. Hey Margaritas! You are a fun place but what happened to the food?!? I am sad, I miss what once was.... :(
(2)
Michael D.
fun time - good good - usually very consistent but lately the carnitas need some help
(4)
Riccardo D.
I normally don't review chain restaurants. People go to chains for a reason: they want inexpensive food or they like the theme or particular food of the chain. Margaritas serves your typical non-authentic Mexican food prepared to taste all the same for the American who "thinks" they like Mexican food. If you want authentic Mexican food search out your local, independently owned restaurant. I'm not here to review the food, which was fine and typical. Nothing special but not bad either. The service however at this particular location was less than stunning. In fact, it was dreadful. It started out good because there were four of us all having margaritas. Once we had stopped ordering alcohol the waitress went on hiatus. She did not check on us after we had received our food. I had to ask her three times for salsa. She did not ask if wanted anything else and getting the check was a half hour wait followed by another fifteen-minute wait to receive the paid check back with the credit card. She didn't apologize for the delay and it was not very busy even though it was a Friday evening. There are lots of restaurants in the Portland area. With service like this, I'd rather go elsewhere.
(2)
Allison L.
A manager got in touch with me, and I do appreciate that. I'm guessing my experience was a fluke.
(3)
Matt L.
Tried this place on a whim not finding anything else that would be good with kids in the vicinity. This location is odd and sits in the bottom floor of what looks like an old school, crammed into the corner basement. Parking is in the rear and is a bit of a walk to the entrance. This is a seat yourself situation which was odd and looked like the staff was working hard to accommodate. Should have known better but the food here is bland and just downright bad. The chimichangas had bad tasting chicken inside and the sauces and toppings are just horrible. The burritos tasted equally as bad. This is just not great Mexican food and the service although friendly was sloooowww. Never again will I make this choice for a chain Mexican restaurant. It just is not that good and for the price not worth it. Plus this place was so loud and rowdy from all the heavy drinkers, not a place for kids by any means. Skip it!
(2)
Kelly C.
I think I am a Mexican food snob - growing up on traditional homemade Mexican food in California I feel a little justified in making comments about good Mexican food. Is Margarita's traditional Mexican food? Nah. Is it fun, yummy Mexican food, YES! It is a chain with cheesy decor and music, but the food is pretty good. We had entrees the first time we went and it wasn't bad. The 2nd time we went we had Happy Hour food and Margaritas. The prices were good and so was the food. I was disappointed they didn't inform us about the Rewards Card - that would have been nice. The service was so-so, although the manager came over and talked to us about our experience, which was thoughtful. Don't go there expecting the best Mexican food you will ever have - go there expecting a good time, with lots of choices, and good drinks. However, I do hope the service improves.
(4)
Dan V.
Exactly what you'd expect from a chain Mexican restaurant...that's not a bad thing. Good "Mexican" food with all the classic options. The beer and the margaritas are cheap. I got a 20oz Does Equis draft for $4. The churros and ice cream desert was tasty.
(4)
Meredith M.
Reasonable prices. BEST margaritas I have had at a restaurant in the Northeast. the FRESHEST guacamole I've had since Tejas. Friendly service. Cute booths. They also have a pretty cool discount on Monday nights for people that work in the restaurant/ hotel industry. I think it was something like 20% or 40% off your total bill with proof that you work for one of these industries. That's pretty cool. The fish tacos were delicious and the shrimp quesadillas were amazing. Really nice sized FRESH shrimp, not that dinky frozen stuff. Oh AND the salsa was incredible. I can't wait to go back! I may even try another location a little closer to home.
(4)
Robert S.
Adequate space. Cozily jammed into a sub basement. Food & apps adequate. Drinks typical. Tidy ambiance.
(3)
Rob G.
def a cool place and great food!!! decent atmosphere!!!! will def go again!!
(4)
Robert D.
I went once. When I try a new place purporting to serve Tex-Mex, or straight up authentic Mexican cuisine I order chicken enchiladas. Such a simple dish.. it's all about how the chicken is cooked and more importantly the sauce. The sauce was like brown gravy. You know that aisle sign in Shaw's that says "Gravy" ... as if gravy is something you buy off the shelf. Anyway, the sauce looked like that jar stuff you see up here in NE and definitely did not have any character resembling a chile, tomato, or any herb related to the cuisine.
(1)
Monique G.
Amazing Nachos Cowabunga. Ask for them with steak. They freshly grate their cheese every day, so the mix is always slightly different- but completely delicious always. 100% A+ for service and atmosphere. Great happy hour drink specials too.
(5)
Lindsay P.
Great drinks!
(5)
Pinky T.
Margarita's is always solid for Mexican food. As a former employee, I can attest to its cleanliness and its dedication to quality ingredients. Everything is always fresh, old stuff is thrown out, you can be guaranteed that you'll get what you want, and if it gets screwed up, they'll fix it and take care of you. The service is generally above and beyond (though you can get a less-than-enthusiastic, crappy server once in a blue moon). The margaritas are top notch. If you're going to get drunk, get the heavens to margatroid margarita. Seven different liquors, you don't taste it, it'll run you over like a mack truck that hit a patch of ice. If you're a beer snob, try the Bohemia, Modelo Especial, or Pacifico. All fantastic Mexican beers that's a refreshing foray away from Corona. For food, I always find myself getting the tomato garlic nachos (add chicken), the guacamole (fantastic), skillet baked enchiladas, or steak/chicken/shrimp fajitas. I have NEVER had anything from this restaurant that I didn't like, and even as an employee, never really got sick of the food because of the wide variety of choices. All in all, five stars. This location is better for a quieter dinner, more family friendly than the location in the Old Port. If you're looking for a rowdier crowd, check out the Old Port margs on Brown Street (I think).
(5)
Emily A.
This was often the first stop of a night of bar hopping in the Old Port. You can't help but LOVE the guacamole that is made to order and the warm tortilla chips that accompany said guac. Plus the drinks are large and strong. Any time I'm back in town I try and eat here.
(4)
Erin W.
Though Margarita's plays a crucial role in this evening, the review ends up being mostly about Bunnies and Heckling For my 21st review, spanning back over a decade, I bring you to the eve of my 21st birthday. Ahh, the ceremonious post midnight first legal sip. My roommates and extended crew had spent the better part of the evening leading up to, "The Sip," at a party over at the Bunny Hutch. The Bunny Hutch, which received its name due to the residence of upwards of five rabbits, was located near the Sea Dog's stadium. We had been parting at the Bunny Hutch for years by then and often three of the four units would open up their doors. The lone holdout on hosting always was the lady that kept the outdoor rabbits. She was nice enough and never complained. She just wasn't a carouser. The Bunny Hutch was a tree of small world scenarios in full fruit. I first was there with friends as a guest of unit 2. He and his group invited me and mine back to their house for some grillin after the Sea Dog's game. Both our groups were castoff in the bleachers along the first base line and were very, very rude to the visiting team. Realizing that we had found our people we bunched up closer, combining our jeering talent and flask holding capacity. By the middle of the sixth we began a thunderous foot stomping rendition of, "Warm up the bus!" Later that same summer we come to learn at a friend's housewarming party, that she now resides at the Bunny Hutch. Y'know because they allowed rabbits. By the eve being depicted here there are two house rabbits, one porch rabbit, and the original two in the hutch out back. Portland has a lot of house rabbits. We go to Margarita's because it is close by. More importantly, they would not be shocked and/or a lil angry to learn that I was just this very moment turning 21. A good size group of over a dozen make the trek down St John's to partake in shot after shot amid the fiberglass stonework arches and bordertown prison thematic. We are kicked out at closing and return to the Bunny Hutch. Someone forgot to close the porch gate and the big white bunny is gone. I never see pink elephants. Just big white bunnies.
(5)
Ben K.
Great food! If you go there ask for Kayla as you waitress she was really friendly and good.
(5)
Mao K.
Ordered the fish tacos. The sauce. tasted like mayo. Great drinks.
(3)
Larry S.
A must for great Mexican. As someone who lived in California for decades and has experienced the real thing there more times than I can count, the food at Margaritas is as god as an I've ever had anywhere in California. Service; outstanding. Guac appetizer and hot flat chips; so yummy and authentic. Drinks; yummy and powerful. Only difference between this and the authentic dives on the west coast is this place has the tourist theme going. (And the campesino music was a little loud at times.) But anybody who knows real Mexican food knows you don't care about the decor; you're going for the food. And this place had some of the best Mexican I've ever had. A must try.
(5)
David B.
Bad happy hour experience! I've been to margaritas many times before but never to happy hour. The happy hour menu is deceptive advertising!! They advertise $3 nachos, $1 chimis, and $1 taquitos. The picture shows a plate of nachos, 3 chimis, and 3 taquitos. Ok so 3 of us order the chimis which come as an option for chicken or jalapeño. We order 2 orders of chicken and 1 jalapeño. Our bartender brings over a plate of 4 and says nothing so we sit there for 10 minutes waiting for the other 2 plates and finally ask where the rest of our food is and he says what other food? We said our other two orders of chimis, he says that's all you get one chimi per order. I said 1 chimi it advertises "chimis" plural and shows a picture of 3. I asked if you only get 1 nacho for 3$ he said no you get a plate. I said we'll then why does the menu show a plate of 3 chimis if you only get 1 it should say "chimi" not "chimis. I know it's not the bartenders fault but this is very deceptive especially if not explained and not a good "deal" for a happy hour.
(1)
S And E H.
The food is bland. The service is slow.
(2)
Chelsea C.
I know it's a chain restaurant, but there's just something about listening to cheesy mariachi music while being served americanized Mexican food that hits the spot. Add that to the equally cheesy decor and you've got a match made in heaven. The inside of the restaurant is always bright and clean, and the majority of the staff constantly has a smile on their face. There have been times when I'm gotten slightly confused waitresses who are likely just inside from their weed break, but that's only the exception, not the rule. I've been going to Margaritas since before I could drink (legally), and it only gets better now that I can sample their fine margaritas. I'm also pretty sure that my ex boyfriend from 8th grade and all of his friends can still remember my order here to the T. This being the case, I highly recommend the queso fundido, which is a cheese/chipotle/salsa verde mix that's a heart attack waiting to happen in the best possible way. Their regular salsa varies between mild and extremely hot, I like it when it's extremely hot and makes my mouth burn so I can't stop eating it. As for their margaritas, they're all good, but I recommend the russelrita, which is a frozen margarita, don't know exactly what's in it, but it's delicious. Just don't be like me and sip it down super quick, it gives me a brain freeze every single time no matter how hard I try to avoid it.
(5)
John P.
I had a burger and a margarita there last night. A few hours after dinner i was stricken violently ill. It has been nearly 18 hours of illness at this point. I can not wait to get better. One would think that with the high prices for drinks/entrees they could afford to pay attention to food safety.
(1)
Justine J.
Nope. Nope. Don't even bother. This doesn't even cut it as a "chain Mexican restaurant"... the food is just nasty. Margaritas are watered down, chips are stale, and the chicken in the quesadillas I had was practically unrecognizable (as ANY kind of meat). Nope.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Dinner Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Loud Alcohol : Full Bar Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : Yes Dogs Allowed : No Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
If you enjoy Taco Tuesday, then you have officially fallen in love with the Mexican Food. The main grain of Mexican cuisine is maize. Also known as corn, maize is grown for the past 9000 years after the crop was discovered by the people in Mayan civilization. Mexican empire flourished when they started growing beans, tomatoes, chili pepper, sweet potato and cactus. Till this date these ingredients are used in cooking authentic Mexican dishes and drinks.
Great use of spices, fresh chili pepper dishes like fajitas, tortilla chips, corn chips, salsa, chimichangas, burritos, nachos and quesadillas are invented in America. But when you are looking for authentic Mexican food then you must find a restaurant in the city that serves Rajas con Queso, Garbanzo in a Guajillo Chile Sauce, Pork Filled Chiles Rellenos, Chiles en Nogada, Molcajete Salsa, Pico de Gallo and Frijoles de la Olla. An eye-opening fact – Mexican don't like their food hot. They use fresh chili and other spices to create a flavor that lingers in your mouth.
Mexican food is great for those who are Gluten Intolerant as they use Corn instead of wheat in most of their dishes. Also, you can easily find many beans based Mexican dishes. Another dish which didn't get similar glory as tacos or nachos is the Mexican hot chocolate. If you love something hot on a chilly day, then go for Mexican Hot Chocolate. On merry days, you can enjoy the authentic Mexican Drinks like Tequila, Mezcal, Tecuí, Sotol, Bacanora, Charanda, Posh O Pox, Puebla and Pulque. Mexican Cuisine is for people who enjoy strong drinks and hearty meals.
Bruce R.
Pretty average Ameri-Mex fare. The best thing I can say about them is they are consistent. Consistently average, but consistent nonetheless. If you order the same dish at any one of their many locations on any day, it will always look and taste the same. I give them credit for good quality control. I've been to five of their locations and food is identical. Decent but uninspired generic chain restaurant style fare. The best bet is the appetizers,they do make good nachos. Real cheese, oven fired, nice and melty with lots of fresh toppings. For a place named "Margaritas", I'd expect a decent drink of the same name. Sadly, like 99% of all restaurants, they make them using the same crappy bottled mix everyone else does.
(3)Shane L.
Now, I know that this is a "chain" mexican restaurant and I usually would not give a place like this 4 stars in my review but every single time that we have been here, whether on team outings or just meeting friends, we have always had a really enjoyable experience. And this includes all of the establishments all the way up to Orono, downtown Portland off of Congress, in Auburn and this one. Last night we met with some friends on ladies night for a couple of pops/margaritas and some quick food and again, had a great time. When we first got there, it was pretty busy and packed to the gills with patrons enjoying some mexican fare. We bellied up to the bar to wait a bit for the table where we had a friendly bartender serving us up a couple of tall and cold Dos Equis (not on special because my bud and I are not of the female persuasion) but that's ok it was still cold and thirst busting. We were then sat with immediate fresh and warm tortilla chips and a chunky salsa, which is my personal preference. It tasted both fresh and a perfect combination of cool and warm with the light and crispy tortilla chips. I know I am describing this pretty thoroughly but I feel that the tortilla chips and salsa are a true barometer of whether a mexican restaurant is going to be enjoyable for me. Weird I know. We were then served our entrees which all came out piping hot and fresh and I did not hear any complaints around the table ... all compliments. With the biggest hit being the baby chicken chimis with the sauce. I personally got the aztec shrimp quesadilla and it was very tasty and tasted authentic with a delicious dipping sauce to add to the flavor. It was both cheesy and had just enough spice. The waitress was prompt and on the ball with refills even though she had a ton of tables to tend to. She was also very personable and funny cracking jokes and splitting the check like 4 ways (which I know is sometimes a pain in the keester) but she did it willingly and efficiently. The ambiance is dimly lit in the evening and is very crowded in some areas of the restaurant and can get very loud but I think that if you are a return person to the establishment, you have come to expect it. Also, if you go on ladies night, let me tell you there are a lot of ladies taking advantage and having some fun! If you are looking for authenticity and a foodie kind of place, then you might not be looking Margaritas, but if you are looking for good food, fun atmosphere, then check them out, you will enjoy it.
(4)Daniella L.
Great for bar apps and beverages! We love this location because there is plenty of parking and has a very laid back atmosphere. The décor is all imported from Mexico which gives it an authentic look. They have a full bar and lots of tequila! My favorite drink is the frozen Strawberry margarita with a sugar rim (watch out for head freeze!) because it is light and fruity. My husband prefers Dos Equis cerveza or the original margarita with salted rim. I think the food is a bit heavier than traditional Mexican food, but I would say it's best described as American-Mexican style. Some entrees are smothered in cheese and sauces, that can be a bit heavy and large, but are ok in smaller portions and great for sharing. We love the appetizer menu! Is it the BEST Mexican food in the world? No. But it is a lot better than most other's in the area and is reasonably priced. As long as you avoid the fried, cheese saturated dips and entrees, you should enjoy your meal here. I recommend the fresh guacamole and the baby chimis- PLUS you get unlimited chips and salsa!! Yum-yum!
(5)Jon D.
First off, let me say that every time I've been here it's been with a large group. There's a cheery Tex-Mex atmosphere and the food is consistently good. It's also open a bit later than some of the smaller restaurants around old port, so it's got that. In a town where everything closes at 10p, being open later is a huge deal for me. I come from New York, where we get used to being able to get food at 3am if you want. No so in Maine. There's a full bar, good Margaritas - obviously - and Thursday night trivia games. it's a great place to hang out with friends.
(4)J S.
Excellent food and service. The only thing I do not like about this place is the parking situation. The surrounding neighborhood is a little sketchy, and you have to park in the dark parking lot behind the building (park out front, you will get towed). Otherwise, this is a great place to get some Mexican food. $$$
(4)Jane N.
Music in lounge wayyy too loud to have a conversation. It is definitely dance club loud!! The waitress could not be nicer!!! Her name is Ashley!! Adorable and very attentive. The place emptied out when happy hour pricing ended.
(3)Alise K.
Ehhhh just ok food here. We ate in the bar and I will say the service is great. Don't love their salsa and we ordered all the basic Mexican selections. ( tacos , burritos etc. ) friendly crowd and its a good place to go before the sea dogs game.
(3)Steff D.
Margaritas is Margaritas, right? With currently 25 locations throughout Maine, Mass., NH, CT, and Pennsylvania there's one thing you ALWAYS know about a Margaritas: it's gonna taste the same, look the same, feel the same regardless of which one you're at. What makes each special is really the staff. I've had both an exceptional customer service experience here (my most recent experience; they literally bent over backwards to make us feel welcome and accomodate our every need) and a really, very terrible one (my experience before last, I was here to do a Dos XX promotion and the manager screamed at us to get out and leave her customers alone despite the fact that she was the very one who requested we be there). I've had the nachos here... they're just so-so. I never feel like there's enough toppings on their chips, so it ends up being a really dry, salty experience. I've had the queso dip here... and I agree entirely with what another reviewer has said: it really is a pan full of fried, greasy cheese. And if you eat it right away, you'll burn your mouth. If you don't eat it right away, it becomes one giant, solidified piece of waxy cheese. The struggle. I've had the guacamole here... AND IT'S REAL GOOD. Like really, really, really darn good. Dare I say, it's actually better than what most of the "fancy" Mexican places in town offer. Specifically their basic guacamole - it says it's handmade and fresh, and it actually smells, looks, tastes that way! Green and lovely. My friends had the bacon guacamole and said it was a little weird; and, the jalapeño guacamole is possibly the hottest thing I've ever put in my mouth ever. EVER. So don't order it unless you REALLY love spice, need to clear your sinuses out, or have gallons upon gallons of drink to wash it down with. Margaritas is AMAZING to local non-profits though, as they often have nights where a percentage of your bill goes to support such-and-such. They also have a ton of weekly specials, including: Monday through Friday: From 3-6pm, in the bar and lounge, get $5 Margaritas, $4 Dos Equis drafts, $2.50 Bud Light drafts, $3.00 Tecate cans, $1.50 baby chimis, and 5 appetizers for just $5! Monday: All you can eat tacos for only $7.99! Tuesday: All you can eat tacos for only $7.99! Wednesday: Health Care Night: health care staff receives 25% off meals as well as $5 strawberry and regular margaritas. Thursday: Ladies Night: receive 25% off your meals as well as $5 strawberry and regular margaritas! Here, there, or everywhere... Margaritas is definitely good for their specials, signature drink, and guacamole (seriously!).
(2)John S.
Margaritas on St John street used to be one of my favorite places. Solid food and drinks, good service fun atmosphere. Tonight's experience was awful on many levels. Half empty restaurant terrible drinks ( Mexican mojito) stale chips, dry, old tasting chicken tacos. Appetizer and entree came within 5 minutes of each other, drinks took another 10 minutes. Stay away. Judging from all of the empty tables, many people already are.
(1)Diane P.
Went to Margaritas on Cinco de Mayo expecting food and drink specials and maybe some fun giveaways.....not so much. Apparently, Margaritas decided that it would be a fun idea to start celebrating Cinco de Mayo on Friday, May 1st and continue until Monday, May 4th....then have no food or drink specials on the actual Cinco...really? How weird is that? Unless you just want to fill the seats on the weekend and slow Monday night. In past years, they have had the all you can eat tacos or at least something. No freebies like keychain bottle openers or flower garlands or the little glow in the dark bracelets this year either...the manager on duty stated that 2 large groups of 30 each had been there when they opened the doors at lunch and totally "ransacked" the freebies baskets so there was nothing left except a small stack of small straw hats and a few flower garlands...the rest of the freebies were reserved for trivia that didn't start until 7 pm. As it was now 4 pm, we were not sticking around for that. The food is the same tasty creations as always, the atmosphere is the same, and the service was, as always, good....nothing special marking it as Cinco de Mayo at all. Still had a nice meal but could have gone somewhere else and had the same with more fun.
(2)Karen R.
I eat out a lot and consider Margaritas to be among my favorite local restaurants. When I am in the mood for a margarita and mexican I am always satisfied here. This is a place where we can also bring the kids. They have a great kids menu, our kids love the food and sticky string activity they give to keep them busy while waiting. If am a big fan of their fish taco meal, but the last time I went I had the chicken quesadilla and think it was the best I have ever had. Loaded with meat, cheese and veggies, and not soggy. Margaritas also makes some of the best margaritas around. They must be pros since it is their name! I tried for the first time a Coronarita and now have a new favorite beverage to go with my meal. The bar area of the St. John's street location is large and relaxing. When going without the kids we like to sit there and eat our meals. This is a popular meeting place for friends...especially on Full Moon Madness...lots of specials, prizes and fun!
(4)Adria R.
Very average tex-mex food (not to be confused with Mexican). Tonight we just had appetizers, which were all fine but not spectacular. The nachos are very large and pretty tasty. The "Queso" appetizer is basically a frying pan full of fried mozzarella cheese, so kinda gross. The guacamole is fresh and tasty. I ordered a margarita, and for a restaurant of the same name I'd expect a better drink. They use a mix, which is a bummer.
(3)Jeannie Y.
Used to LOVE this place. I think they changed their recipes last year. . The Chicken Chimichangas that I used to order every visit are very different. The chicken is no longer fresh and shredded with cheese. It is a precooked cubed chicken that has a weird texture. It is gross. Had the fajitas recently... guess what? Same disgusting precooked chicken with fake grill marks. Oh and the portions are A LOT smaller than they used to be. Hey Margaritas! You are a fun place but what happened to the food?!? I am sad, I miss what once was.... :(
(2)Michael D.
fun time - good good - usually very consistent but lately the carnitas need some help
(4)Riccardo D.
I normally don't review chain restaurants. People go to chains for a reason: they want inexpensive food or they like the theme or particular food of the chain. Margaritas serves your typical non-authentic Mexican food prepared to taste all the same for the American who "thinks" they like Mexican food. If you want authentic Mexican food search out your local, independently owned restaurant. I'm not here to review the food, which was fine and typical. Nothing special but not bad either. The service however at this particular location was less than stunning. In fact, it was dreadful. It started out good because there were four of us all having margaritas. Once we had stopped ordering alcohol the waitress went on hiatus. She did not check on us after we had received our food. I had to ask her three times for salsa. She did not ask if wanted anything else and getting the check was a half hour wait followed by another fifteen-minute wait to receive the paid check back with the credit card. She didn't apologize for the delay and it was not very busy even though it was a Friday evening. There are lots of restaurants in the Portland area. With service like this, I'd rather go elsewhere.
(2)Allison L.
A manager got in touch with me, and I do appreciate that. I'm guessing my experience was a fluke.
(3)Matt L.
Tried this place on a whim not finding anything else that would be good with kids in the vicinity. This location is odd and sits in the bottom floor of what looks like an old school, crammed into the corner basement. Parking is in the rear and is a bit of a walk to the entrance. This is a seat yourself situation which was odd and looked like the staff was working hard to accommodate. Should have known better but the food here is bland and just downright bad. The chimichangas had bad tasting chicken inside and the sauces and toppings are just horrible. The burritos tasted equally as bad. This is just not great Mexican food and the service although friendly was sloooowww. Never again will I make this choice for a chain Mexican restaurant. It just is not that good and for the price not worth it. Plus this place was so loud and rowdy from all the heavy drinkers, not a place for kids by any means. Skip it!
(2)Kelly C.
I think I am a Mexican food snob - growing up on traditional homemade Mexican food in California I feel a little justified in making comments about good Mexican food. Is Margarita's traditional Mexican food? Nah. Is it fun, yummy Mexican food, YES! It is a chain with cheesy decor and music, but the food is pretty good. We had entrees the first time we went and it wasn't bad. The 2nd time we went we had Happy Hour food and Margaritas. The prices were good and so was the food. I was disappointed they didn't inform us about the Rewards Card - that would have been nice. The service was so-so, although the manager came over and talked to us about our experience, which was thoughtful. Don't go there expecting the best Mexican food you will ever have - go there expecting a good time, with lots of choices, and good drinks. However, I do hope the service improves.
(4)Dan V.
Exactly what you'd expect from a chain Mexican restaurant...that's not a bad thing. Good "Mexican" food with all the classic options. The beer and the margaritas are cheap. I got a 20oz Does Equis draft for $4. The churros and ice cream desert was tasty.
(4)Meredith M.
Reasonable prices. BEST margaritas I have had at a restaurant in the Northeast. the FRESHEST guacamole I've had since Tejas. Friendly service. Cute booths. They also have a pretty cool discount on Monday nights for people that work in the restaurant/ hotel industry. I think it was something like 20% or 40% off your total bill with proof that you work for one of these industries. That's pretty cool. The fish tacos were delicious and the shrimp quesadillas were amazing. Really nice sized FRESH shrimp, not that dinky frozen stuff. Oh AND the salsa was incredible. I can't wait to go back! I may even try another location a little closer to home.
(4)Robert S.
Adequate space. Cozily jammed into a sub basement. Food & apps adequate. Drinks typical. Tidy ambiance.
(3)Rob G.
def a cool place and great food!!! decent atmosphere!!!! will def go again!!
(4)Robert D.
I went once. When I try a new place purporting to serve Tex-Mex, or straight up authentic Mexican cuisine I order chicken enchiladas. Such a simple dish.. it's all about how the chicken is cooked and more importantly the sauce. The sauce was like brown gravy. You know that aisle sign in Shaw's that says "Gravy" ... as if gravy is something you buy off the shelf. Anyway, the sauce looked like that jar stuff you see up here in NE and definitely did not have any character resembling a chile, tomato, or any herb related to the cuisine.
(1)Monique G.
Amazing Nachos Cowabunga. Ask for them with steak. They freshly grate their cheese every day, so the mix is always slightly different- but completely delicious always. 100% A+ for service and atmosphere. Great happy hour drink specials too.
(5)Lindsay P.
Great drinks!
(5)Pinky T.
Margarita's is always solid for Mexican food. As a former employee, I can attest to its cleanliness and its dedication to quality ingredients. Everything is always fresh, old stuff is thrown out, you can be guaranteed that you'll get what you want, and if it gets screwed up, they'll fix it and take care of you. The service is generally above and beyond (though you can get a less-than-enthusiastic, crappy server once in a blue moon). The margaritas are top notch. If you're going to get drunk, get the heavens to margatroid margarita. Seven different liquors, you don't taste it, it'll run you over like a mack truck that hit a patch of ice. If you're a beer snob, try the Bohemia, Modelo Especial, or Pacifico. All fantastic Mexican beers that's a refreshing foray away from Corona. For food, I always find myself getting the tomato garlic nachos (add chicken), the guacamole (fantastic), skillet baked enchiladas, or steak/chicken/shrimp fajitas. I have NEVER had anything from this restaurant that I didn't like, and even as an employee, never really got sick of the food because of the wide variety of choices. All in all, five stars. This location is better for a quieter dinner, more family friendly than the location in the Old Port. If you're looking for a rowdier crowd, check out the Old Port margs on Brown Street (I think).
(5)Emily A.
This was often the first stop of a night of bar hopping in the Old Port. You can't help but LOVE the guacamole that is made to order and the warm tortilla chips that accompany said guac. Plus the drinks are large and strong. Any time I'm back in town I try and eat here.
(4)Erin W.
Though Margarita's plays a crucial role in this evening, the review ends up being mostly about Bunnies and Heckling For my 21st review, spanning back over a decade, I bring you to the eve of my 21st birthday. Ahh, the ceremonious post midnight first legal sip. My roommates and extended crew had spent the better part of the evening leading up to, "The Sip," at a party over at the Bunny Hutch. The Bunny Hutch, which received its name due to the residence of upwards of five rabbits, was located near the Sea Dog's stadium. We had been parting at the Bunny Hutch for years by then and often three of the four units would open up their doors. The lone holdout on hosting always was the lady that kept the outdoor rabbits. She was nice enough and never complained. She just wasn't a carouser. The Bunny Hutch was a tree of small world scenarios in full fruit. I first was there with friends as a guest of unit 2. He and his group invited me and mine back to their house for some grillin after the Sea Dog's game. Both our groups were castoff in the bleachers along the first base line and were very, very rude to the visiting team. Realizing that we had found our people we bunched up closer, combining our jeering talent and flask holding capacity. By the middle of the sixth we began a thunderous foot stomping rendition of, "Warm up the bus!" Later that same summer we come to learn at a friend's housewarming party, that she now resides at the Bunny Hutch. Y'know because they allowed rabbits. By the eve being depicted here there are two house rabbits, one porch rabbit, and the original two in the hutch out back. Portland has a lot of house rabbits. We go to Margarita's because it is close by. More importantly, they would not be shocked and/or a lil angry to learn that I was just this very moment turning 21. A good size group of over a dozen make the trek down St John's to partake in shot after shot amid the fiberglass stonework arches and bordertown prison thematic. We are kicked out at closing and return to the Bunny Hutch. Someone forgot to close the porch gate and the big white bunny is gone. I never see pink elephants. Just big white bunnies.
(5)Ben K.
Great food! If you go there ask for Kayla as you waitress she was really friendly and good.
(5)Mao K.
Ordered the fish tacos. The sauce. tasted like mayo. Great drinks.
(3)Larry S.
A must for great Mexican. As someone who lived in California for decades and has experienced the real thing there more times than I can count, the food at Margaritas is as god as an I've ever had anywhere in California. Service; outstanding. Guac appetizer and hot flat chips; so yummy and authentic. Drinks; yummy and powerful. Only difference between this and the authentic dives on the west coast is this place has the tourist theme going. (And the campesino music was a little loud at times.) But anybody who knows real Mexican food knows you don't care about the decor; you're going for the food. And this place had some of the best Mexican I've ever had. A must try.
(5)David B.
Bad happy hour experience! I've been to margaritas many times before but never to happy hour. The happy hour menu is deceptive advertising!! They advertise $3 nachos, $1 chimis, and $1 taquitos. The picture shows a plate of nachos, 3 chimis, and 3 taquitos. Ok so 3 of us order the chimis which come as an option for chicken or jalapeño. We order 2 orders of chicken and 1 jalapeño. Our bartender brings over a plate of 4 and says nothing so we sit there for 10 minutes waiting for the other 2 plates and finally ask where the rest of our food is and he says what other food? We said our other two orders of chimis, he says that's all you get one chimi per order. I said 1 chimi it advertises "chimis" plural and shows a picture of 3. I asked if you only get 1 nacho for 3$ he said no you get a plate. I said we'll then why does the menu show a plate of 3 chimis if you only get 1 it should say "chimi" not "chimis. I know it's not the bartenders fault but this is very deceptive especially if not explained and not a good "deal" for a happy hour.
(1)S And E H.
The food is bland. The service is slow.
(2)Chelsea C.
I know it's a chain restaurant, but there's just something about listening to cheesy mariachi music while being served americanized Mexican food that hits the spot. Add that to the equally cheesy decor and you've got a match made in heaven. The inside of the restaurant is always bright and clean, and the majority of the staff constantly has a smile on their face. There have been times when I'm gotten slightly confused waitresses who are likely just inside from their weed break, but that's only the exception, not the rule. I've been going to Margaritas since before I could drink (legally), and it only gets better now that I can sample their fine margaritas. I'm also pretty sure that my ex boyfriend from 8th grade and all of his friends can still remember my order here to the T. This being the case, I highly recommend the queso fundido, which is a cheese/chipotle/salsa verde mix that's a heart attack waiting to happen in the best possible way. Their regular salsa varies between mild and extremely hot, I like it when it's extremely hot and makes my mouth burn so I can't stop eating it. As for their margaritas, they're all good, but I recommend the russelrita, which is a frozen margarita, don't know exactly what's in it, but it's delicious. Just don't be like me and sip it down super quick, it gives me a brain freeze every single time no matter how hard I try to avoid it.
(5)John P.
I had a burger and a margarita there last night. A few hours after dinner i was stricken violently ill. It has been nearly 18 hours of illness at this point. I can not wait to get better. One would think that with the high prices for drinks/entrees they could afford to pay attention to food safety.
(1)Justine J.
Nope. Nope. Don't even bother. This doesn't even cut it as a "chain Mexican restaurant"... the food is just nasty. Margaritas are watered down, chips are stale, and the chicken in the quesadillas I had was practically unrecognizable (as ANY kind of meat). Nope.
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