Sip Summer Cocktails at These 5 Northern Virginia Spots

From margaritas to sangria and everything in between, here are five local options to grab a delicious cocktail.

By Kate Oczypok • Posted June 20, 2025 at 6:00 a.m.

courtesy The People's Drug

When the temperature starts to climb, there’s nothing better than sipping on a refreshing drink. Whether you prefer a traditional margarita or a slushier take on an Aperol spritz, here are five Northern Virginia establishments that serve the perfect summer cocktail.

Margarita

Taqueria Poblano
The award-winning margs here are made with fresh lime juice, triple sec, and silver tequila. They pair perfectly with chips and guac or the restaurant’s crispy or soft tacos. Jalapeño or habanero can be added to your margarita for $1, and Taqueria Poblano even offers their margarita mix to take home. Or if you prefer the pre-made stuff, jalapeño or habanero quarts are an option too. 2400B Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria; 2503A N. Harrison St., Arlington

Aperol Spritz

The People’s Drug
If you’re tired of the traditional Aperol spritz, The People’s Drug ups the ante with a frozen version. Made with low ABV aperol, orange, and cava, the cocktail is a refreshing take perfect for hot summer days in Alexandria. Duck in for a respite from the heat and pair the cocktail with one of the restaurant’s shareables like truffle fries or “The Board,” a classic take on charcuterie. 103 N. Alfred St., Alexandria

Pina Colada at Colada Shop — *Courtesy Colada Shop*

Piña Colada

Colada Shop
The aptly name Colada Shop has locations in Clarendon, National Landing, and the Mosaic District. Happy hour runs from 4 to 8 p.m. daily at all locations. A featured cocktail is a sweet and delicious piña colada with white rum, pineapple, coconut cream, and coconut milk. Clarendon, Mosaic District, and National Landing

Mojito

Jackson’s Mighty Fine Food and Lucky Lounge
Jackson’s extensive food menu serves up classic American fare and has 10 featured cocktails available. Their classic mojito, made with Cruzan rum, fresh muddled mint, and lime, is a great choice for sweltering summer nights. 11927 Democracy Dr., Reston

Sangria

Mama Tigre
Mama Tigre’s sangria comes in either red or white versions, with ginger tequila, peach schnapps and a dash of champagne. Garnished with fresh fruit, it’s served by the glass or carafe, which is four servings. Gather some friends, order a carafe, and partake in some bar bites like queso dip and tikka wings. 10443 White Granite Dr., Oakton

Feature image courtesy The People’s Drug

Kate Oczypok

Contributing Writer

Kate Oczypok has been a freelance writer since 2011, and is proud to be a regular contributor to Northern Virginia Magazine in digital and print since 2020. Her bylines have appeared in The New York Times, People.com, Better Homes and Gardens, and locally The Georgetowner and Washingtonian Magazine, among others. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Print Journalism from American University and a M.Ed. in Education from Penn State. She also teaches virtual piano lessons in the after school hours and does portrait photography on weekends.