Sip on the best margaritas in the Sauk Valley for National Tequila Day Friday, July 24

For tequila lovers, there’s nothing better than sipping on a cool margarita on a hot summer day.

National Tequila Day is Friday, July 24, which is the perfect reason to start your weekend with one of these award-winning margaritas.

The Sauk Valley community cast their votes in the 2026 Sauk Valley Favorites contest, highlighting the businesses that make the region special.

After hundreds of nominations in many different categories and weeks of voting, it’s now time to shine a spotlight on those winning establishments.

This time, we’re honoring Sauk Valley’s Favorite Place for Margaritas.

Favorite Margarita: Kelly’s Restaurant and Lounge

Kelly’s Restaurant and lounge, best known for their authentic Mexican food, was voted by Sauk Valley audiences as the best place to go for a margarita. This family owned-and-operated restaurant also has classic American pub food on the menu. 218 Locust St., Sterling. kellysinc.com

One of the Favorites: Candlelight Inn

The Candlelight Inn’s famous Chicken George may have put the restaurant on the map, but their margaritas are not to be missed. The Candlelight Inn was voted by Sauk Valley audiences as one of the best places to go for a margarita. Visit Candlelight Inn’s Facebook page for daily specials, including $1.99 margaritas on Fridays. 2200 1st Ave., Rock Falls. candlelightinnrestaurant.com

One of the Favorites: Willy’s Restaurant

Willy’s Restaurant and Willy’s Taco Truck in Sterling is also one of the Sauk Valley’s favorite places to enjoy a margarita. Follow Willy’s on Facebook for daily specials on food and drinks, including $3 margaritas on Taco Tuesdays. Follow Willy’s on Facebook for the latest on other specials. 3210 W. 4th St., Sterling.