Margarita season has officially arrived in Tampa Bay.

March Margarita Madness kicks off it’s inaugural year on March 5, 2026, bringing a bracket-style showdown between some of the best margarita makers in Tampa, St. Pete, and Clearwater. Think tournament energy—but with tequila.

Here’s how it works: local restaurants face off head-to-head, and you vote to decide who advances. Every five days, the bracket progresses until one restaurant earns the title of Tampa Bay’s Ultimate Margarita.

From classic lime to spicy, smoky, and fruit-forward creations, this month-long competition celebrates the creativity of our local hospitality scene.

Voting begins March 5 and the winner will be crowned April 2.

Cast your vote and follow the bracket at: bit.ly/MMMadness2026

Grab your margarita crew — it’s time to sip, vote, and let the best margarita win.

Pinellas County Match-Up

The Helm Provisions & Coastal Fare vs. COCKtail


Hillsborough County Match-Up

Rocca vs. Con Amor


Leigh Wilson is the marketing & events director at Creative Loafing Tampa Bay.