What Food Pairs Well With Tequila?

When it comes to hosting a dinner party, wine tends to be the drink of choice for most. But if you want to impress your guests with something unexpected, look no further than tequila. It’s not just for shots and margaritas; tequila is a surprisingly versatile drink for your dinner party. It pairs well with a wide range of foods, from seafood to grilled meats, thanks to its earthy, agave-forward notes and hints of citrus, vanilla and spice.

Whether you’re serving a Mexican-inspired meal or you simply want to add a touch of elegance to your menu, let’s discuss how to make your dinner party burst with new flavors, courtesy of tequila.

What To Eat With Tequila

From the simple perfection of silver to the complexity of aged tequilas, each type has its own unique flavor profile. Let’s discuss how to match them with the right foods for your tequila pairing dinner. 

First Course: Silver Tequila Food Pairing

Silver tequila, also known as blanco tequila, is a clear spirit that is perfect for pairing with seafood and light appetizers. Begin the first course with PATRÓN Silver served in the most traditional way: neat, and in shot glasses to be sipped slowly. As the youngest of the tequilas with the brightest agave profile, we recommended pairing its crisp and clean flavor with these lighter dishes:

• Ceviche
• Shrimp Cocktail
• Grilled Fish Tacos
• Mini Chicken Hot Dogs
• Guacamole
• Bruschetta

Second Course: Reposado Tequila Food Pairing

For main dishes of grilled meats or savory foods, reposado is an excellent choice. All reposados must be aged in oak barrels for at least two months, giving it a smooth and slightly smoky flavor. The oak wood and agave aromas of PATRÓN Reposado, which is aged for at least four months, will add depth of character to the following entrée:

• Grilled Steak
• Poblano Beef Sliders
• Barbecue Ribs
• Spicy Enchiladas

Third Course: Añejo Tequila Food Pairing

If you're looking for the perfect nightcap, añejo tequila is the way to go. It’s aged for at least one year in oak barrels, resulting in a rich and caramel-like flavor profile. The smoothness and depth of PATRÓN Añejo adds a luxurious touch to your dessert course. Try it with:

• Chocolate Lava Cake
• Flan
• Caramelized Bananas

Final Note

With a little bit of planning and preparation, your dinner party can become a celebration of taste and culture. Don’t forget to consider factors like ambiance and equipment—our guide on How to Host a Tequila Tasting at Home is a great resource for elevating your guests’ experiences. By thoughtfully selecting tequilas that complement each course, you not only enhance the flavors of your food, but also introduce your guests to the depth of tequila. Let this iconic spirit’s versatility shine and enjoy its best pairing of all—good company.