This summer has been unbearably hot. Between my central air breaking down in mid-June and my ice maker going bust last month, enjoying a frozen beverage at home is simply out of the question.

My summer savior? The Frozen Blood Orange Margarita at El Vez, Stephen Starr’s eclectic Mexican joint. It is easy to miss this gem on a drink menu filled with enticing names like “Pink Cadillac Margarita” and “Tangerine Dream,” but trust me when I say that you will not regret ordering it.

They concoct the Blood Orange Margarita using gold tequila, triple sec and fresh blood orange puree, resulting in a deep coral colored mixture that is served in an oversized glass, garnished with a perfectly round lime slice, and topped off with an electric blue straw. Available both on the rocks and frozen, the tangy drink never lets me down. El Vez doesn’t skimp on the booze and they certainly don’t compromise on the flavor. The ice cold margarita is strong and the portion is large, justifying the $9 price tag ($33 for a pitcher).

I suggest trying it with the house guacamole, which I would eat every day for the rest of my life if given the opportunity. In addition to the guac (seriously try it), they serve a bunch of other yummy Mexican favorites with a Center City flair.

El Vez is the perfect bar to hit on a hot summer night. The central location on 13th and Sansom combined with the insane Mexicali décor (not to mention the fun photobooth in the middle of the bar) make for evening out.

Next time you’re walking home from work, sweating through your suit jacket while the thermometer hits 106 degrees, slow down and stop by El Vez for the Blood Orange Margarita. It will cool you down and chill you out.

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