The Margarita is one of the most iconic and beloved cocktails in the world, a refreshing blend of tequila, lime, and orange liqueur that has transcended borders and cultures. Yet, the story of its creation is as tantalizing and mysterious as its flavor. Margarita history is riddled with legends, disputed origins, and colorful characters, all vying for a place in cocktail lore. Exploring when was the Margarita invented takes us on a fascinating journey through early 20th-century Mexico, glamorous bars of the United States, and even the creative minds of socialites and bartenders who each claimed to have shaken up the very first one. Unraveling the true birth of the Margarita reveals a rich cultural tale of innovation, migration, and the enduring love for agave spirits.


The Mexican Origins: Spirits and Storytelling

To truly understand Margarita history, it’s essential to look back at the development of tequila itself. Tequila, made from the blue agave plant, became widely produced and consumed in Mexico throughout the 19th century, cementing its role as the national spirit. Lime and citrus, abundant in Mexican cuisine, were frequently used to complement the bold flavor of tequila, giving rise to countless homemade mixtures that bore resemblance to the modern Margarita. The question of when was the Margarita invented often points to Mexico in the 1930s and 1940s, when bartenders and creative drinkers began mixing tequila with citrus juice and orange liqueur in a cocktail glass, possibly inspired by the Daisy — a cocktail style using a base spirit, citrus, and liqueur. Interestingly, “Margarita” is the Spanish word for “daisy,” hinting that the cocktail may be a tequila twist on the earlier Daisy family of drinks.


Multiple stories trace the Margarita’s roots to Baja California, Tijuana, and other border towns where American tourists flooded during Prohibition. Some accounts mention a bartender in Tijuana named Carlos “Danny” Herrera, who, in the late 1930s, allegedly created the drink for a showgirl allergic to other spirits except tequila. Another tale attributes its invention to Margarita Sames, a Dallas socialite, who claimed to have invented the drink at her Acapulco vacation home in 1948 while entertaining guests. Each story captures a kernel of cultural truth about how Mexican ingredients, American visitors, and the imaginative spirit of hospitality converged to produce the Margarita.


Hollywood’s Role in Spreading the Margarita

The rise of Hollywood and its glamorous stars during the 1940s and 1950s played a huge part in popularizing the Margarita far beyond Mexican cantinas. As celebrities traveled to Mexico on holiday or to film on location, they returned with a newfound appreciation for the tequila-based cocktail. Bars and nightclubs in Los Angeles began to replicate the drink, capitalizing on the exotic mystique that surrounded it. In 1953, Esquire magazine officially published the Margarita recipe, further cementing its status in American drinking culture. As the question of when was the Margarita invented traveled across borders, the cocktail was no longer just a local treasure — it had become a symbol of fun, celebration, and cross-cultural fusion.


Hollywood’s influence cannot be underestimated when charting Margarita history. From John Wayne to Rita Hayworth (whose real name was Margarita Cansino, adding another twist to the naming lore), many stars were rumored to favor the drink. By the mid-20th century, the Margarita had found its place on menus around the world, embraced by both elite cocktail bars and neighborhood watering holes. Its appeal was not only in the taste but also in the carefree, beachy lifestyle it evoked — a testament to its Mexican roots and its universal charm.


The Rise of the Frozen Margarita Machine

While the classic Margarita on the rocks was already a hit, the next major leap came with technology — specifically, the invention of the frozen Margarita machine. In 1971, Mariano Martinez, a Dallas restaurateur, modified a soft-serve ice cream machine to serve frozen Margaritas to his eager customers, who were clamoring for consistently cold, slushy cocktails. This innovation revolutionized how people enjoyed the drink, making it more accessible and easier to serve at high volume. The frozen Margarita machine became a fixture in Tex-Mex restaurants and spread rapidly through bars across the United States.


The frozen version added a playful twist to Margarita history, blending convenience, novelty, and nostalgia. It turned a once-specialty cocktail into a mainstream favorite and drove an explosion of flavored Margarita variations, from strawberry to mango to watermelon. This surge in popularity further obscured the question of when was the Margarita invented, as new generations simply accepted it as a delicious staple without ever questioning its origin. Yet, the frozen Margarita machine was a crucial moment in preserving the drink’s legacy by ensuring it could be mass-produced and served with consistent quality.


Debating the True Origins: Myths, Legends, and Truths

Despite the frozen Margarita machine’s contribution to its modern fame, the true story of the cocktail’s creation remains elusive and hotly debated. Margarita history is full of competing claims, each with some measure of believability but no definitive proof. Was it Carlos Herrera who served the showgirl in Tijuana? Or was it Margarita Sames at her luxurious Acapulco gathering? Another theory credits a bartender at the Agua Caliente Racetrack in Tijuana in 1938, who named the cocktail after a beautiful customer. Still others argue that it was simply a local adaptation of the Daisy cocktail, repackaged with tequila in place of brandy or gin.


Because cocktail history often relies on oral tradition, anecdotal evidence, and word-of-mouth stories, it is challenging to pin down exact dates and names. Recipes were rarely written down formally in the 1930s, and local bartenders improvised with available ingredients, making it difficult to verify precisely when was the Margarita invented. In a way, this ambiguity is part of the drink’s magic. Its legend continues to grow, fueled by each new bartender who claims a fresh spin on the timeless formula. Perhaps it is this folklore quality — an origin story woven together by memory and myth — that has kept the Margarita relevant and beloved for generations.


The Margarita Today: Legacy and Reinvention

Today, the Margarita is more popular than ever, standing as one of the world’s best-selling cocktails. It has evolved from a simple combination of tequila, lime, and orange liqueur into a canvas for creativity. Modern bartenders experiment with smoked salts, artisanal tequilas, and exotic fruit infusions, while others pay homage to the classic form with fresh lime juice and high-quality Cointreau. The cultural significance of the Margarita is undeniable: it embodies Mexican pride, American enthusiasm, and a universal love of good times.


Its legacy continues to inspire new innovations, whether in the form of ready-to-drink canned Margaritas or sophisticated craft versions served in high-end cocktail lounges. Even its presentation has transformed, with elaborate glassware, inventive garnishes, and bold flavors that surprise and delight. Despite these changes, the essential spirit of the Margarita — a celebration of tequila, citrus, and conviviality — remains constant.


The enduring question of when was the Margarita invented may never have a completely satisfying answer, but the beauty of Margarita history is that it invites everyone to participate in its evolution. Every time someone raises a salted glass rimmed with lime and takes that first refreshing sip, they add their own chapter to the ongoing story. From the dusty cantinas of Tijuana to the neon bars of Las Vegas and the beaches of Cancun, the Margarita has cemented its place in cocktail culture. Its journey reflects a deeper story of cultural exchange, resourcefulness, and pure enjoyment — qualities that will ensure the Margarita’s popularity for many more decades to come.


Conclusion

In the end, it does not matter precisely who mixed the first Margarita or exactly what year it was born. What matters is the enduring power of a drink that brings people together, invites storytelling, and honors both tradition and innovation. The next time you sip a Margarita, remember that you are tasting history — a history shaped by Mexico’s spirit, America’s fascination, and a world’s thirst for something bright, bold, and beautiful.


At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we’d love for you to come experience the legacy of the Margarita for yourself — whether you’re inspired by its storied past or simply ready to raise a glass to good times. Let our handcrafted Margaritas, flavorful Mexican cuisine, and lively atmosphere turn your next meal or gathering into a celebration. Reach out to us today to plan your visit, order online, or even host your own unforgettable fiesta with us — we’re excited to welcome you!

By Colleen Grennan • May 30, 2025
At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we’ve always believed that Mexican cuisine is much more than a celebration of bold flavors and vibrant culture—it’s also a powerful path toward healthier eating. Our Mexican restaurant takes pride in offering a diverse, customizable, and health-conscious menu that appeals to all palates and dietary needs. From fresh ingredients to vegan-friendly, gluten-free, and vegetarian Mexican food options, we’re redefining what healthy Mexican dining looks like—without sacrificing the crave-worthy taste you know and love. The Power of Fresh Ingredients in Mexican Cuisine A cornerstone of our menu is a commitment to freshness. Every dish we prepare starts with high-quality, fresh ingredients that not only elevate the flavor but also pack a powerful nutritional punch. The Mexican cuisine health benefits truly begin here—with vegetables, lean proteins, legumes, and healthy fats forming the foundation of many of our offerings. Look at our signature Moon Burrito Bowls, for example. Built on a base of Mexican rice, pico de gallo, and queso fresco, with a choice of black or refried beans and proteins such as grilled chicken, steak, pulled chicken, grilled veggies, or taco beef, these bowls offer a satisfying balance of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins. Topped with guacamole—rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats from avocados—this dish is a prime example of how our menu merges deliciousness with wellness. Salads like our Wyckoff Salad and Boulder Run Chopped Salad further amplify this philosophy. Topped with superfoods like kale, avocado, and quinoa, and dressed with our house-made lime-cilantro or red wine vinaigrette, these salads highlight how vibrant and nutrient-rich healthy Mexican dining can be. Embracing Plant-Based Living: Vegetarian and Vegan Options Vegetarian Mexican food has long been a staple in our kitchen. With an abundance of beans, vegetables, herbs, and spices at our disposal, it’s no surprise that our menu is rich with meat-free choices that are anything but boring. One shining example is our Zucchini Nachos—a lighter twist on a classic dish that uses grilled zucchini rounds instead of chips, topped with black beans, pico de gallo, queso, and guacamole. It’s indulgent, yes, but also packed with plant-powered nutrition. Our Vegetarian Chili is another guest favorite, loaded with zucchini, carrots, peppers, and beans, seasoned to perfection with our house spice blend. It’s hearty, comforting, and completely meat-free. For our vegan guests, we’ve designed several options that go beyond simple substitutions. Many of our build-your-own options like Create Your Own Burrito or Bowl allow for full customization with ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, black beans, avocado, and Mexican quinoa—proving that vegan Mexican options can be every bit as satisfying as their meaty counterparts. And if you're wondering about sauces, we have vegan-friendly choices like tomatillo salsa and chipotle salsa rojo available at no extra cost. Navigating Gluten-Free Mexican Dining with Ease Gluten-free Mexican dining is simpler—and tastier—than you might expect. Thanks to naturally gluten-free ingredients such as corn, rice, beans, and fresh vegetables, many of our dishes are already safe for gluten-sensitive guests without any need for major alterations. Tacos served on white or corn tortillas, like our Fish Tacos or Tacos Gaucho, are gluten-free by nature, as are our Blue Moon Chili and Moon Plate entrees when paired with beans and grilled proteins. These meals provide a clean, balanced plate with complex carbohydrates, fiber, and protein—all without the gluten. We’re mindful of cross-contamination risks and encourage guests with specific dietary concerns to speak with our team. We’re always happy to accommodate and suggest the best options for your needs. Personalization is Key: Customizable Mexican Dishes for Every Lifestyle At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we recognize that no two guests are the same. Whether you’re managing a health condition, counting macros, or simply prefer to eat clean, we make it easy to enjoy a meal that fits your lifestyle. Many of our most popular items, from burritos and bowls to wraps and tacos, are designed to be fully customizable. The Create Your Own Burrito or Bowl station is a great example. Here, guests can choose their favorite protein—from grilled chicken to veggie chili—pair it with either black or refried beans, and add fresh toppings like grilled vegetables, sautéed mushrooms, and house-made guacamole. Want it dairy-free? Hold the cheese and opt for tomatillo salsa. Watching your sodium? Choose fresh pico de gallo and skip the queso fresco. Even our Lunch Quesadilla lets guests pick two fillings from an array of healthy choices including broccoli, roasted mixed veggies, grilled chicken, and more. The ability to customize ensures every guest has the power to create a dish that aligns with their personal health goals while still indulging in the rich, spicy, and savory flavors that define authentic Mexican cuisine. Healthy Mexican Dining, at Home or Your Next Event As part of our mission to promote wellness through food, we also offer Mexican catering NJ families, businesses, and organizations can count on for events that need to strike the balance between festive and wholesome. Our catering options include crowd-pleasers like build-your-own taco bars, fajita platters, and hearty salads—all made with the same fresh ingredients and attention to dietary needs as our in-house offerings. For anyone looking to make their next party or office lunch more inclusive, our vegan Mexican options and gluten-free Mexican dining solutions ensure no one is left out. Even if you’re just ordering lunch for your team, dishes like the Healthy BLT or Salmon Avocado Salad offer nutritious, energizing choices that don’t skimp on taste. We know that healthy eating is more than a trend—it’s a lifestyle. That’s why every meal we serve is crafted to reflect the balance of pleasure and nutrition that defines modern wellness. Whether you’re a long-time health enthusiast or just beginning your journey toward better eating habits, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe in Wyckoff is ready to welcome you with open arms and a full plate. So reach out to us , customize your order, savor every bite, and discover how truly fulfilling healthy Mexican dining can be. With us, you’ll experience the Mexican cuisine health benefits in every fresh, flavorful, and wholesome dish. At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, you’re not just dining—you’re nourishing your body and delighting your taste buds, all in one unforgettable experience.

By Colleen Grennan • May 1, 2025
At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we understand that corporate catering is not just about food – it's about creating an experience that brings people together and fuels productivity. Whether you're hosting a small team meeting or a large corporate event, our team is committed to delivering the finest Mexican catering for office meetings and corporate gatherings. We’ve built our reputation on providing exceptional service and mouthwatering dishes that everyone will enjoy. From the first bite to the last, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe ensures your corporate event is a memorable one, serving everything from classic favorites to unique dishes tailored to your specific needs. The Importance of Corporate Catering for Business Success When it comes to business, every detail counts, and corporate catering is no exception. A successful event, meeting, or office gathering requires food that not only satisfies but also enhances the atmosphere. At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we recognize that catering plays a crucial role in creating a positive impression on clients, partners, and employees. Our corporate catering services are designed to make your business events stand out. By providing delicious and authentic Mexican catering, we offer something different from the typical corporate meal options, giving your guests an unforgettable experience. Our Mexican catering for office meetings goes beyond the ordinary. With fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and expertly crafted dishes, we bring a variety of options that cater to diverse dietary preferences. Whether it’s for a casual lunch, a team-building event, or an executive meeting, our meals are designed to fuel your team’s productivity while keeping things vibrant and exciting. We know that food can set the tone for the entire event, and our goal is to create a relaxed yet professional atmosphere where great ideas flow freely. Why Choose Blue Moon Mexican Cafe for Your Corporate Event? When selecting the best catering for corporate events, it's essential to work with a provider who understands the nuances of the business environment. At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we specialize in providing a wide array of Mexican catering with variety, ensuring that we can cater to diverse tastes and dietary restrictions. Whether you’re planning a small meeting or a large corporate function, we are equipped to handle events of any size, delivering a meal experience that complements your business objectives. One of the key reasons companies choose Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is our commitment to quality and authenticity. We source the finest ingredients to create our dishes, using only the freshest vegetables, meats, and spices that make our Mexican cuisine stand out. Our experienced chefs are dedicated to ensuring every dish is crafted with care, bringing the rich flavors of Mexico right to your office or event. From tacos and fajitas to enchiladas and burritos, we offer a menu that’s both diverse and satisfying, so there’s something for everyone. In addition to our exceptional food, we also pride ourselves on our outstanding customer service. Our team is here to ensure your event runs smoothly from start to finish. We take the stress out of planning and organizing the catering aspect of your corporate events, allowing you to focus on what truly matters – the success of your business. From personalized menu planning to timely delivery and setup, we take care of everything so you don’t have to. Affordable Corporate Catering Without Sacrificing Quality We know that budget plays a significant role when planning any corporate event, and that’s why we offer affordable corporate catering options without compromising on quality. At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we believe that exceptional service and flavorful food shouldn’t break the bank. We understand that every company has different needs and budgets, so we offer flexible catering packages designed to fit a variety of requirements. Our affordable corporate catering options are tailored to suit different event types, whether you’re hosting a casual lunch, a formal dinner, or a festive celebration. By choosing Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, you’re not only getting delicious food but also an experience that is sure to impress your guests without the hefty price tag typically associated with business catering. We also understand that in today’s fast-paced business world, time is of the essence. That’s why we offer quick and efficient delivery services, ensuring that your food arrives on time and ready to serve. Whether you need a hot lunch delivered to your office or a full buffet set up for your corporate event, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is dedicated to providing a seamless catering experience that fits your schedule. The Flexibility of Mexican Catering for Every Corporate Occasion One of the unique aspects of Mexican catering is its versatility. Whether you're hosting a casual office lunch or a formal business dinner, Mexican food can be adapted to suit any occasion. At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we specialize in providing Mexican catering with variety, ensuring that each event is tailored to the preferences of your guests. From tacos and quesadillas to freshly made guacamole and salsas, our menu offers something for everyone, regardless of taste preferences or dietary restrictions. Our extensive menu options include both traditional Mexican dishes and more contemporary offerings, allowing you to customize your corporate catering experience to match your specific event. For example, if you're hosting a team-building event, a taco bar with a variety of meats, toppings, and sides might be the perfect fit. Alternatively, for a more formal corporate dinner, we can provide plated meals that reflect the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, such as carnitas, fajitas, and tamales. In addition to the wide range of menu items we offer, we also understand the importance of accommodating dietary restrictions. Whether your guests are vegetarian, gluten-free, or following specific dietary guidelines, we can create a menu that ensures everyone is satisfied and well-fed. Our flexibility allows us to cater to all kinds of corporate occasions, ensuring that no matter what the event is, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe can provide the perfect meal for your team or clients. Expanding Your Options: Italian Catering in Wyckoff While Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is renowned for our Mexican catering expertise, we understand that some businesses may want to offer their guests a variety of cuisines. That’s why we also provide Italian catering services in Wyckoff and surrounding areas. Our Italian catering menu brings the same level of quality and authenticity as our Mexican offerings, with delicious Italian dishes crafted to perfection. Whether you’re looking to add variety to your catering options or you have guests with specific culinary preferences, our Italian catering menu is a fantastic complement to our Mexican offerings. From pasta dishes and salads to gourmet sandwiches and antipasti platters, we provide a range of options that can elevate your event and delight your guests. Combining the best of both worlds, Mexican and Italian cuisine, ensures that everyone can find something they love, making your corporate event truly special. Conclusion Corporate catering is an essential part of any business event, and Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is here to elevate your gathering with flavorful, fresh, and diverse catering options. Whether you're looking for Mexican catering for office meetings, affordable corporate catering, or the best catering for corporate events, we provide a tailored experience that meets your needs. Our commitment to quality, variety, and customer service ensures that your event is not only successful but also memorable. With our wide-ranging menu options, from classic Mexican favorites to Italian catering in Wyckoff, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe offers everything you need for your next corporate event. Reach out to us today and let us handle the catering while you focus on making your business flourish.

By Colleen Grennan • May 1, 2025
At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we believe in the power of community and have a long-standing commitment to giving back to the neighborhoods we serve, especially here in Wyckoff, New Jersey. We understand that the strength of a community lies in the support people give each other, and as a family-friendly restaurant, we take that responsibility seriously. Through our various community fundraisers, we’ve helped raise money for schools, sports teams, and charities that make a real difference in the lives of local families. Whether it's through our regular Community Nights or our ongoing E-Gift Card Fundraisers , we aim to create an atmosphere that encourages giving and togetherness. A Longstanding Tradition of Support For years, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe has been deeply involved in the Wyckoff community, contributing to numerous local initiatives that benefit schools, sports teams, and various charitable causes. We’ve witnessed firsthand the impact that community fundraisers can have, not only in raising necessary funds but also in fostering a sense of unity. Through our active participation in community events, we aim to ensure that important causes get the attention they deserve. Whether it’s a fundraiser for a local school or a support drive for a family in need, we are proud to stand alongside our neighbors and support them through these challenging yet rewarding times. Our restaurant has always been more than just a place to enjoy delicious food—it’s a neighborhood hub where people can come together for a greater cause. That’s why we’ve made it easy for organizations in Wyckoff and beyond to host their own fundraising events with us. We offer a simple and efficient process through our Community Fundraiser Request Form, which can be accessed on our website. By filling out this form, local organizations can easily set up their own fundraising events and receive a portion of the proceeds from our sales, helping to raise vital funds for their causes. Our Fundraising Programs: Community Nights and E-Gift Cards Blue Moon Mexican Cafe offers a variety of programs designed to help organizations raise money while bringing the community together. One of our most popular initiatives is our Community Nights. On designated days, 20% of our sales are donated directly to the participating organization. It’s a simple yet effective way for local groups to earn funds while patrons enjoy a great meal in a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. The best part? There’s no extra effort required from the organization—just invite your friends, family, and neighbors to come dine with us on the specified night, and a portion of their bill will automatically be donated to the cause. Additionally, our E-Gift Card Fundraiser is an ongoing program that allows organizations to raise money year-round. By selling e-gift cards to friends, family, and supporters, organizations can earn a percentage of the sale. This flexible fundraiser works well for groups looking to create a steady stream of support over time, and since the gift cards can be used for any purchase at Blue Moon, it’s an easy way to keep the community engaged and excited. Whether it’s for a school fundraiser or a local sports team’s travel expenses, this program allows organizations to benefit from our support in a sustainable way. A Family-Friendly Atmosphere for All What truly sets Blue Moon Mexican Cafe apart is our dedication to providing a family-friendly environment where community gatherings can thrive. Our restaurant is designed to be a welcoming space for families, friends, and neighbors to come together, whether they’re celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a meal together. Our team takes great pride in creating a warm, inviting atmosphere where everyone feels at home. This family-friendly atmosphere is the perfect backdrop for our community events, as it reinforces the idea that Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is not just a place to eat—it’s a place to connect, share, and support one another. From our colorful decor to our friendly staff, we strive to make every visit a positive experience for families of all sizes. We know that by creating an environment where families feel comfortable and engaged, we can make our fundraising events even more meaningful. Whether you’re attending a fundraiser for your child’s sports team or gathering for a school event, you can count on Blue Moon to provide a space where you and your loved ones can enjoy great food and meaningful connections. How to Participate: Easy and Accessible We know that community involvement should be as easy as possible, which is why we’ve made it simple for organizations to host their own fundraisers with us. Whether it’s for a one-time event or an ongoing initiative, participating in a fundraiser at Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is a straightforward process. Organizations can start by filling out the Community Fundraiser Request Form. This form allows groups to specify the details of their event, including the date, time, and cause they are supporting. Once submitted, our team will review the request and work with the organization to ensure the event runs smoothly. For those looking to raise funds on an ongoing basis, our E-Gift Card Fundraiser offers a flexible solution. Simply sign up through our Community FAQ page , and your group can start selling e-gift cards right away. It’s an easy way to raise money without requiring a lot of time or effort on your part. Whether you’re organizing a school fundraiser or supporting a local charity, Blue Moon Mexican Cafe is here to help you reach your goals. Conclusion At Blue Moon Mexican Cafe, we are proud to be an active part of the Wyckoff community, and we look forward to continuing to support local organizations, schools, and families through our fundraising programs. Our commitment to community involvement is at the heart of everything we do, and we are grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of those around us. Join us in supporting local causes, and together, we can make our community an even stronger and more vibrant place to live. To get started with your own fundraising event, visit our Community Fundraiser Request Form or Donation Request Form today!