The Margarita Was Invented In Galveston
In Texas, Galveston had the first custom house, post office, opera house, and the list goes on and on.
But, what about the Margarita?
I’ve always heard that the Margarita was invented at The Balinese Room by Santos Cruz for singer Peggy Lee.
A while back, I noticed this Facebook post that my friend Jack Morris, owner of Third Coast Gallery, shared that stirred up the debate.
What’s this about Paco’s in Taxco, Mexico?
Blasphemy!
So, I did some Googling. We have lots of competition for that title!
Smithsonian Magazine ran an article that discusses Carlos “Danny” Herrera, who claimed to have created the drink in a Tijuana restaurant. They then referenced another source that claims Dia Blue of Jose Cuervo Tequila fame invented it. Even a Texan was mentioned: Margarita Sames, a Dallas socialite. But, what about our Santos Cruz?
Feeling hopeful, I found a story by Texas Monthly. Surely, they would get it right! Right?
Nope. They go on and on about some guy, Pancho Morales, who drives a milk truck in El Paso. He claims to have invented it in 1942.
And, then I stumbled upon Wikipedia. Woohoo! At least Santos Cruz from Galveston got a mention.
I don’t know who this merry band of narcissists are, and why the tequila and lime laced spotlight is on them. For me, the proof is clear. 110 proof like a good bottle of tequila.
As an Islander, I will proudly boast that Santos Cruz of Galveston Island, Texas invented the Margarita.
I dare you to prove me wrong. Give me your best salty shot.
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Lee Roane
Lee Roane has worked on the Galveston.com website since 1994. He is interested in history and birding but will write about anything if he thinks it will help someone enjoy the island.
