By Denise Ortuno-Neil
Picture it, a refreshing tangy ice cold Margarita blissfully floating in your mouth, the slight tinge of salt grazing your lips (or not if you like to go salt-less). There is nothing quite like it on a warm weekend afternoon, and Fresh Agave in Palm Desert has one of the best Margaritas in the Coachella Valley. Coupled with fantastic food and ultra-friendly service, it’s an awesome spot to relax and raise a glass.
I remember the spot where Fresh Agave stands today as a former Mexican restaurant a long time ago…El Mexican Café I believe. Then later El Mirasol gave the location a try for a bit as I recall. But it is Fresh Agave that seems to have found the right recipe for lasting success there, as they are consistently busy all year round.
Opened in October 2010 by Rigo and Cecilia Garcia, the restaurant offers up some of the best Mexican food and Margaritas in the desert, and is a go to spot for The Palm Springs Local. There is just something about it. Besides the tasty food and drinks, I really enjoy their quaint bar and it’s social vibe. It is kind of on the small side, but that is what makes it so cool. Although they have ample dining room seating, I prefer the bar. However, to sit there, you have to get there at a time when the bar is not full, or patiently wait for a seat to open up and then pounce on it!
Part of the charm there is their service. Even if you have never been there before, the staff, and Bartender extraordinaire Jesus, will make you feel like a regular. It is that intangible quality that keeps me and a multitude of other loyal guests coming back over and over again.
Now if you’re wondering what Agave means, well I will tell you. It is what the main ingredient of the wondrous Margarita is made from, Tequila. The Blue Agave plant produces the nectar that makes any Mexican meal even better. You can see the restaurants love for its moniker clearly from its all-encompassing blue walls.
Their House Margarita is the best, it is pure and simple with Gold Tequila, Triple Sec and Sweet & Sour. I have it on the rocks with salt, however having it blended is also an option. But there are other Margarita varieties to enjoy as well, including the One Eleven (the House with a float of Chambord), the Cadillac (House with a floater of Grand Marnier), the Skinny for those of you watching your weight (Hornitos Sauza Resposado, Fresh Lime and Agave Nectar), or a try a fruit Margarita with Strawberry, Mango, Peach, Tamarindo, Banana or Pina Colada.
There are plenty of food selections to go along with your libation. My favorite is the Quesadilla with Fajita Chicken. It is so succulent and big! It is easily shared between two people. Another absolute fave of mine is the Taco Fiesta for two. It actually could feed three people, maybe four. My boyfriend and I have ordered it several times and after eating for a while, it hardly looks like a dent has been made.
The Taco Fiesta has portions of Carne Asada, Pollo Asada, Carnitas, Chorizo, Guacamole, Pica de Gallo, Jalapenos, Sour Cream and Cheese with your choice of tortillas. For only $24, it is one heck of a deal! Besides my favorites, their menu offers up many other scrumptious items, everything from Tacos, Enchiladas, Fish dishes and Mole too.
They are opened seven days a week from 11am to 9pm during the week, and until 10pm on the weekends. Check out their daily Happy Hour from 3pm to 5pm for special pricing.
Fresh Agave in Palm Desert is awesome for a weekend afternoon (or anytime) filled with super fantastic Margaritas, delicious Mexican food, great service and good times. Cheers!
Located at 73-325 Hwy 111, Palm Desert, Ca 92260. Visit www.freshagavemexicanbarandgrill.com for more information.
