Cadillac Margarita (El Cadí)

Updated Apr 17, 2026 · 4 min read

The Cadillac Margarita has no one recipe, and depending on who you ask, it may mean different things. It reminds Karla Flores-Mercado, owner of Bar Flores and other places in Los A.

Discover the El Cadí: A Modern Twist on the Cadillac Margarita by Flores-MercadoIntroduction to the El Cadí Cocktail

At Bar Flores, mixologist Flores-Mercado pays homage to iconic restaurants like Acapulco and El Compadre, famous for their Flaming Margaritas, with her innovative creation: the El Cadí. This cocktail redefines the classic Margarita by replacing traditional sour mix with fresh citrus juices, resulting in a vibrant and flavorful drink that is sure to impress any cocktail enthusiast.

The Unique Ingredients of El Cadí

To craft the El Cadí cocktail, you will need the following high-quality ingredients:

• 1 1/2 ounces El Tesoro Blanco Tequila
• 1/2 ounce Naranja Licor de Naranja
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce freshly squeezed lime juice
• 1/2 ounce agave syrup
• 1/2 ounce Grand Marnier (for floating)
• Garnish: salt rim

Ingredient Highlights

• El Tesoro Blanco Tequila: Known for its rich mouthfeel and long spicy finish, this highlands-style tequila provides the earthy base for the El Cadí. Flores-Mercado emphasizes that the earthiness shines through, making it a perfect match for Margaritas.
• Naranja Licor de Naranja: This Mexican orange liqueur is less sweet and more citrus-forward than typical triple secs, adding a bright flavor profile that complements the fresh juices.
• Fresh Citrus Juices: By using both lemon and lime juices, the cocktail achieves a slightly tarter taste that balances the sweetness from the Grand Marnier and agave syrup.
• Grand Marnier Float: This cognac-based orange liqueur not only enhances the drink's flavor but also adds an opulent touch, elevating it beyond a standard Margarita.

What Makes the Cadillac Margarita Unique?

The Cadillac Margarita is generally a richer, more luxurious version of the classic Margarita. Typically made with blanco tequila and lime juice, it is sweetened with premium orange liqueurs like Grand Marnier. This version often features lightly aged reposado tequila for added depth. The origins of the Cadillac Margarita are somewhat unclear, but it gained popularity in the 1980s and ‘90s, particularly in chain restaurants that began highlighting higher-end ingredients on their menus.

Steps to Make the El Cadí Cocktail

Follow these detailed steps to prepare your own El Cadí cocktail:

1. Prepare the Glass: Start by rubbing the rim of a double Old Fashioned glass with a lime wedge. Dip a quarter of the glass in salt to create a salt rim, and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, combine the El Tesoro Blanco Tequila, Naranja Licor de Naranja, freshly squeezed lemon juice, freshly squeezed lime juice, and agave syrup.
3. Shake: Shake the mixture vigorously for about 25 seconds to ensure that all the ingredients are well-combined and chilled.
4. Double-Strain: Using a fine-mesh sieve, double-strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over fresh ice. This will help achieve a smooth texture by removing any pulp or ice shards.
5. Float the Grand Marnier: Carefully float 1/2 ounce of Grand Marnier on top of the drink for a beautiful presentation and an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion

The El Cadí cocktail is a fantastic twist on the classic Cadillac Margarita, showcasing the artistry and creativity of Flores-Mercado at Bar Flores. By using fresh ingredients and high-quality spirits, this cocktail delivers a deliciously balanced and refreshing experience. Whether you’re enjoying it on a sunny patio or at a festive gathering, the El Cadí is sure to impress.