Updated: July 26, 2026
In this guide
Columbus summers call for a drink that doubles as dessert, and the city’s latest obsession delivers exactly that.
Soft-serve margaritas are popping up all over the city, blending a classic cocktail with the creamy texture of your favorite summer treat. What started as a viral TikTok trend has quickly turned into a full-on local craze, with multiple spots now putting their own spin on the boozy dessert. If you’ve been looking for a fun way to mix up your margarita order, this is it.
Here’s where you can find soft-serve margaritas around Columbus right now.
| Spot | Area | Flavors | Price | Address |
| AJ’s Tacos | Hilltop | Pineapple, strawberry, lime, mango, swirl | $10–$16 | 3307 Sullivant Ave |
| La Plaza Tapatia | West Side | Mango, strawberry, swirl | Varies | 255 Georgesville Rd |
| Herencia Jalisco | Hilliard | Strawberry, mango | Varies | 6542 Hayden Run Rd |
| Terra Mezcal | Northland (Rt 161) | Classic lime | Varies | 2171 E Dublin Granville Rd |
AJ’s Tacos
AJ’s Tacos helped kick off the trend locally, and they’ve been drawing a crowd ever since. The Hilltop spot introduced soft-serve margaritas in mid-March, leaning into a viral social media moment that was already picking up steam across the country. Videos of brightly colored, perfectly swirled drinks have been everywhere lately, and AJ’s brought that same eye-catching style to Columbus.
Their version comes in flavors like pineapple, strawberry, lime, mango, and swirls, with the option to add an extra shot if you want to kick things up a notch. The texture is what keeps people coming back. It’s thicker and creamier than a standard frozen margarita, piped into the cup just like soft-serve ice cream. A small runs $10 and a large $16, and the base mix lands around 5% ABV before you add a shooter, per 614NOW.
Owner Rachael Aguirre spotted the drinks on TikTok and, rather than drive to Cleveland for the nearest one, brought a machine to Columbus instead. According to Columbus Underground, it paid for itself on day one, and the shop poured thousands of them in the first three weeks. The response has been immediate, with lines forming and social media feeds filling up with photos of the drinks. Between the expanded dine-in space, family-friendly setup, and warmer weather rolling in, it’s hitting at exactly the right time.
- Address: 3307 Sullivant Ave, Columbus, OH 43204
Website: AJ’s Tacos
La Plaza Tapatia
La Plaza Tapatia didn’t wait long to join the party. The sprawling Latino supermarket on the West Side is now serving its own take on soft-serve margaritas, one more reason to swing by beyond the already stacked grocery and food options.
Their lineup focuses on fruit-forward flavors, including mango, strawberry, and a mango-strawberry swirl. The team has emphasized getting the texture just right, aiming for that smooth, creamy consistency that defines the trend. It’s an easy way to try one while you’re shopping or grabbing a quick bite.
- Address: 255 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228
Website: La Plaza Tapatia
Herencia Jalisco
Over in Hilliard, Herencia Jalisco has recently added soft-serve margaritas to the menu, keeping things simple with strawberry and mango options made with tequila.
The drinks are bright and refreshing, a natural fit alongside the food. They’ve only been available for a short time, but they’re already catching attention from customers looking to try something new. It’s a solid option if you’re outside the city center and want in on the trend without heading into the city.
- Address: 6542 Hayden Run Rd Suite 2, Hilliard, OH 43026
Website: Herencia Jalisco
Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill
Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill is taking a slightly different approach, leaning into a more classic margarita profile. Their soft-serve version blends that familiar lime-forward flavor with a creamy texture and a subtle hint of tequila.
It’s a good pick if you’re curious about the trend but still want something that feels close to a traditional margarita. You get the same smooth swirl and refreshing finish, just with a more citrus-driven taste. As patio season ramps up, it’s an easy addition to a relaxed night out.
- Address: 2171 E Dublin Granville Rd, Columbus, OH 43229
Website: Terra Mezcal Mexican Grill
Soft-serve margarita FAQ
What is a soft-serve margarita?
A frozen margarita run through a soft-serve machine instead of a blender. The slow churn adds air, so it comes out creamy and swirled like soft-serve ice cream rather than slushy like a standard frozen marg.
Do soft-serve margaritas actually have alcohol in them?
Yes. They’re real cocktails built on tequila. AJ’s version runs about 5% ABV, around the strength of a beer, and some spots will add an extra shot on request. Expect to show ID.
How much does a soft-serve margarita cost in Columbus?
AJ’s Tacos charges $10 for a small and $16 for a large. Prices at the other spots vary, so check their pages before you go.
Soft-serve margaritas are still relatively new to Columbus, but they’re spreading quickly.
Each spot brings its own personality to the drink, from bold fruit flavors to more classic takes. If you want an excuse to try something different this summer, this is one trend that’s worth a taste.
