Discovering a vibrant dining experience often begins with exploring the menu, and Las Margaritas in Cottage Grove, MN offers a delightful journey into authentic Mexican flavors. This beloved local spot has earned its reputation not just for its warm atmosphere but also for a menu that perfectly balances traditional dishes with contemporary twists.
Whether you’re craving the comforting warmth of freshly made tortillas or the bold zest of expertly crafted salsas, Las Margaritas’ menu promises to satisfy a broad range of palates. Each dish is thoughtfully prepared, emphasizing fresh ingredients and authentic techniques, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
From classic appetizers to hearty entrees and refreshing beverages, Las Margaritas’ menu showcases the richness of Mexican cuisine while adapting to the diverse tastes of the Cottage Grove community. Exploring their offerings reveals a dedication to quality and flavor that elevates every meal.
Whether dining with family, friends, or enjoying a quiet dinner, the menu provides an inviting selection that caters to all occasions. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes the Las Margaritas menu a standout choice in Cottage Grove.
Appetizers That Ignite the Palate
Starting your meal with the right appetizer sets the tone for a memorable dining experience. At Las Margaritas, appetizers are crafted to offer a flavorful introduction to the meal ahead, blending traditional Mexican starters with house specialties that spark the appetite.
Among the standout choices are the freshly prepared chips and salsa, which come in several varieties ranging from mild to fiery hot. The chips are always crisp, served with homemade salsa that bursts with the freshness of ripe tomatoes, onions, and peppers.
For those looking for something heartier, the guacamole is a must-try, made tableside to ensure maximum freshness and creaminess.
Another popular choice is the jalapeño poppers, stuffed with cheese and wrapped in bacon for an irresistible combination of spicy and savory. These appetizers offer a perfect balance of textures and flavors, making them a favorite start to any meal at Las Margaritas.
“The appetizers at Las Margaritas are a perfect harmony of tradition and innovation—each bite tells a story of authentic Mexican flavors with a twist.”
Popular Appetizer Options
- Chips and Salsa: Multiple salsa options including mild, medium, and hot
- Fresh Guacamole: Made fresh to order with ripe avocados and zesty lime
- Jalapeño Poppers: Stuffed with cheese and wrapped in bacon
- Queso Fundido: Melted cheese dip with chorizo and peppers
Signature Entrees: A Taste of Mexico
The heart of Las Margaritas’ menu lies in its entrees, which showcase a variety of classic Mexican dishes prepared with care and authentic ingredients. Each plate tells a story of rich culinary traditions passed down through generations, presented with a commitment to quality and flavor.
From savory enchiladas to sizzling fajitas, the entree selection is diverse and satisfying. The enchiladas come stuffed with your choice of chicken, beef, or cheese, smothered in a flavorful red or green sauce that enhances the dish’s depth.
Fajitas are served sizzling hot with bell peppers and onions, accompanied by warm tortillas that invite you to build your own perfect bite.
Seafood options also shine on the menu, with dishes such as camarones al mojo de ajo (garlic shrimp) delivering bold, aromatic flavors. Each entree reflects Las Margaritas’ dedication to authentic preparation methods, ensuring that every meal is an immersive experience.
Entree Highlights
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Spice Level |
| Chicken Enchiladas | Shredded chicken, corn tortillas, red sauce, cheese | Medium |
| Beef Fajitas | Marinated beef strips, onions, bell peppers, flour tortillas | Medium |
| Camarones al Mojo de Ajo | Shrimp, garlic, butter, lime | Mild |
| Vegetarian Enchiladas | Mixed vegetables, cheese, green sauce | Mild |
Vibrant Tacos and Burritos
For those who love handheld delights, Las Margaritas offers a tempting array of tacos and burritos. These options are perfect for a casual yet flavorful meal, showcasing the versatility and heartiness of Mexican street food.
The tacos are made with soft corn or flour tortillas filled with a variety of meats, seafood, or vegetarian options. Each taco is topped with fresh garnishes like cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime to brighten the flavors.
Burritos, on the other hand, are generously stuffed and wrapped tightly for a satisfying, portable meal.
Both tacos and burritos can be customized with a range of salsas and sides, allowing diners to tailor their meals to their personal preferences. This flexibility is one of the reasons these dishes remain crowd favorites at Las Margaritas.
“Las Margaritas’ tacos and burritos redefine comfort food with every bite, combining fresh ingredients and bold spices to create unforgettable meals.”
Menu Options for Tacos and Burritos
- Carnitas Tacos: Slow-cooked pork, onions, cilantro, salsa verde
- Fish Tacos: Lightly battered fish, cabbage slaw, chipotle mayo
- Vegetarian Burrito: Black beans, rice, sautéed vegetables, cheese
- Carne Asada Burrito: Grilled steak, rice, beans, pico de gallo
Hearty Mexican Soups and Salads
Adding a refreshing or comforting element to your meal, the soups and salads at Las Margaritas provide excellent options that complement the heartier dishes. These lighter selections are crafted with fresh ingredients and authentic flavors to enhance your dining experience.
The tortilla soup is a classic favorite, featuring a rich broth with shredded chicken, crispy tortilla strips, avocado, and cheese. It’s both satisfying and light, offering a perfect balance for any meal.
Salads include vibrant ingredients such as fresh greens, tomatoes, avocado, and grilled meats, tossed in zesty dressings that reflect Mexican culinary influences.
These options are ideal for those seeking a lighter bite without sacrificing flavor, offering a well-rounded menu that caters to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Popular Soups and Salads
| Item | Main Components | Recommended Pairings |
| Tortilla Soup | Chicken broth, shredded chicken, tortilla strips, avocado | Chips and salsa, guacamole |
| Ensalada Mexicana | Mixed greens, tomatoes, avocado, grilled chicken, lime dressing | Fajitas, burritos |
| Black Bean Soup | Black beans, spices, onions, cilantro | Tacos, quesadillas |
| Grilled Shrimp Salad | Grilled shrimp, mixed greens, avocado, citrus vinaigrette | Seafood entrees |
Desserts: Sweet Endings to Savor
No meal is complete without a satisfying dessert, and Las Margaritas offers a selection of traditional Mexican sweets that provide a perfect conclusion to your dining experience. Each dessert is crafted to deliver rich, indulgent flavors that complement the savory courses.
Classic favorites such as churros, with their crispy exterior and cinnamon sugar coating, are served alongside warm chocolate or caramel dipping sauces. Flan, a creamy caramel custard, offers a smooth and sweet contrast to the spicier dishes that precede it.
For chocolate lovers, the Mexican chocolate cake is a decadent choice with subtle hints of cinnamon and chili.
These desserts reflect the authentic sweetness of Mexican cuisine while adding a touch of indulgence that leaves diners fully satisfied.
“Las Margaritas’ desserts are a celebration of Mexican tradition, bringing warmth and sweetness that linger long after the last bite.”
Sweet Menu Favorites
- Churros: Fried dough pastries with cinnamon sugar and dipping sauces
- Flan: Creamy caramel custard with a rich, smooth texture
- Mexican Chocolate Cake: Dense chocolate cake with cinnamon and chili undertones
- Sopapillas: Puffy fried pastries served with honey
Beverages That Complement Every Meal
Las Margaritas offers a wide range of beverages designed to enhance the flavors of the meal. From traditional Mexican drinks to classic cocktails, the beverage menu is crafted to pair perfectly with the dishes served.
Signature margaritas are a highlight, made with fresh lime juice and premium tequila, available in classic, strawberry, mango, and other fruity flavors. Non-alcoholic options include horchata, a sweet rice milk drink flavored with cinnamon, and aguas frescas, refreshing fruit-based beverages that balance the meal’s spices.
The variety ensures that every diner can find a beverage that suits their preference, whether seeking a cocktail to celebrate or a cool refreshment to accompany a spicy dish.
Beverage Selections
| Beverage | Description | Alcohol Content |
| Classic Margarita | Tequila, lime juice, triple sec, salted rim | Alcoholic |
| Strawberry Margarita | Tequila, lime, triple sec, fresh strawberries | Alcoholic |
| Horchata | Sweet rice milk with cinnamon and vanilla | Non-alcoholic |
| Aguas Frescas | Seasonal fruit infusions such as watermelon or hibiscus | Non-alcoholic |
Special Dietary Options and Customizations
Understanding the diverse needs of its customers, Las Margaritas is committed to offering menu options that accommodate various dietary preferences and restrictions. This inclusivity ensures that all guests can enjoy the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine without compromise.
Vegetarian and vegan dishes are clearly marked and include options such as vegetable enchiladas, black bean burritos, and salads with grilled vegetables. Gluten-free choices are also available, with tortillas made from corn instead of wheat and careful preparation to avoid cross-contamination.
Staff members are attentive and knowledgeable, ready to assist with customization requests to adapt dishes according to dietary needs. This dedication to customer satisfaction makes dining at Las Margaritas both enjoyable and accessible.
“At Las Margaritas, every guest’s needs are respected, with thoughtful options and a flexible approach to menu customization.”
Dietary Accommodations
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Black bean burritos, vegetable enchiladas, salads
- Gluten-Free: Corn tortillas, rice dishes, select soups
- Allergy-Friendly: Staff available for ingredient guidance and substitutions
- Custom Orders: Flexible modifications to spice level, ingredients, and preparation
Conclusion
Las Margaritas in Cottage Grove, MN, stands as a shining example of authentic Mexican cuisine delivered with care, passion, and a commitment to quality. Its menu invites diners on a flavorful adventure filled with traditional dishes, innovative combinations, and a welcoming atmosphere that makes every meal special.
From appetizers that awaken the senses to hearty entrees that satisfy the soul, each dish is a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico.
The thoughtful inclusion of dietary accommodations and a diverse beverage selection ensures that all guests can find something to enjoy, whether seeking a festive meal with friends or a quiet dinner with family.
The dessert offerings provide a sweet conclusion, rounding out an experience that is both memorable and deeply satisfying. Las Margaritas is more than just a restaurant; it is a celebration of culture, flavor, and community, making it a must-visit for anyone in the Cottage Grove area.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Mexican food or new to its vibrant flavors, the menu at Las Margaritas promises a dining experience that is authentic, delicious, and welcoming. It is a place where every bite tells a story, and every meal feels like a celebration.
