Tequila's Mexican Grill and Bar in South Carolina — What to Expect
A casual Mexican restaurant and bar with a focus on tequila
Tequila's Mexican Grill and Bar serves traditional Mexican food and drinks in a relaxed setting. The restaurant operates as a full-service bar with a kitchen, so you can order a meal, sit at the bar for drinks, or do both. The menu centers on familiar Mexican fare — enchiladas, tacos, burritos, and grilled specialties — paired with a tequila selection that goes beyond the basic margarita.
The atmosphere is casual and social, designed for groups or solo diners. You'll find the space works equally well for a weeknight dinner, a weekend night out with friends, or a happy hour stop. The bar staff can make standard cocktails and house margaritas, and the kitchen handles orders at the bar as well as from tables.
Key Takeaways
- Tequila's serves Mexican food and full bar service in a casual, walk-in-friendly environment across multiple South Carolina locations.
- The menu includes traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, and grilled items, with prices typical for casual dining in the state.
- The bar stocks tequila varieties and can make margaritas and standard cocktails, making it a destination for both food and drinks.
- Hours and specific menu items vary by location, so calling ahead or checking online before your visit ensures you get what you're looking for.
What the menu typically includes
Tequila's offers the standard Mexican restaurant menu: tacos (soft and hard shell), enchiladas, burritos, quesadillas, and chile rellenos. Grilled items like carne asada, pollo asado, and fajitas appear on most locations' menus. Appetizers usually include queso dip, guacamole, chips and salsa, and fried items like chimichangas or flautas.
Combination plates let you order multiple items together — a common way to sample different dishes. Rice and beans come as sides with most entrees. Vegetarian options exist but are typically limited to bean-based dishes and cheese items. Portion sizes tend to be generous, and many diners take leftovers home.
Prices fall in the moderate range for casual Mexican dining in South Carolina. Entrees typically run between $10 and $18, with combination plates on the higher end. Appetizers and sides cost less. Happy hour pricing on drinks varies by location and day.
The bar and drink selection
The bar is the defining feature that separates Tequila's from a standard Mexican restaurant. The tequila selection includes blanco, reposado, and añejo varieties, giving you options beyond the well tequila that goes into house margaritas. If you're interested in tasting different tequilas, the bartenders can usually suggest pours or flights.
Margaritas come in standard flavors — lime, strawberry, mango — and can be ordered frozen or on the rocks. Beer selection includes Mexican imports like Corona, Modelo, and Dos Equis, as well as domestic options. The bar also makes mojitos, palomas, and other standard cocktails. Non-alcoholic options include soft drinks, agua fresca, and Mexican sodas.
Locations and hours across South Carolina
Tequila's operates multiple locations throughout South Carolina, with restaurants in different cities and regions. Each location maintains its own hours, which may differ on weekdays versus weekends. Some locations open for lunch; others start in the afternoon or evening. Many stay open late on weekends.
Because hours and services vary by location, calling ahead or checking the specific restaurant's phone number online before you go prevents a wasted trip. Some locations may offer dine-in, takeout, and delivery; others may limit options. Holiday hours also change, so if you're planning a visit on a holiday, confirm the location is open.
When to go and what to expect
Weeknight evenings tend to be quieter than weekends, making them a good time if you prefer a calmer atmosphere. Friday and Saturday nights draw larger crowds, especially around dinner time and later for drinks. Happy hour, when offered, typically runs in the late afternoon or early evening and includes reduced prices on select drinks and appetizers.
The restaurant is generally walk-in friendly, though large groups may want to call ahead. Seating is first-come, first-served at most locations. The bar itself is a social spot where you can sit and order food or just drinks. Noise levels rise with the crowd, particularly on weekend nights when the bar is busier.
Parking and accessibility
Most Tequila's locations have dedicated parking lots or street parking nearby. Accessibility varies by location — some are in shopping centers with ample parking, while others are in downtown areas with street parking. If you have mobility concerns or need accessible parking, calling the specific location beforehand lets you know what to expect.
Restroom facilities are standard for casual restaurants. The bar area is typically accessible to walk-in customers without reservation. Noise levels and crowding during peak hours may affect comfort for those sensitive to busy environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation at Tequila's?
Most locations operate on a walk-in basis and do not require reservations. However, large groups should call ahead to confirm the restaurant can accommodate everyone. During very busy times like Friday or Saturday nights, a short wait is common.
Can I order takeout or delivery?
Takeout is available at most locations. Delivery varies by location and may depend on your proximity to the restaurant. Call the specific location to confirm what options they offer and any minimum order requirements.
What if I have dietary restrictions?
The kitchen can modify most dishes — removing cheese, using beans instead of meat, or preparing items without certain ingredients. Tell your server or bartender about your restrictions when ordering. Vegetarian options exist but are limited to bean dishes, cheese items, and vegetable sides.
Is there a kids menu?
Many locations offer smaller portions or a children's menu with simpler items like cheese quesadillas, tacos, and burritos. Prices are lower than full entrees. Call ahead if you want to confirm what kids' options are available at your chosen location.
What's the best tequila to order if I'm new to tequila?
Blanco tequila is the lightest and most approachable for first-time drinkers — it's what goes into most margaritas. Reposado is aged slightly and has more flavor. Ask your bartender what they recommend based on whether you prefer it in a cocktail or as a straight pour.