Drink

Shaking It Up Behind the Bar

Tricia Robinson of Tortilla Flats on making the perfect margarita

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What is Tortilla Flats?
It’s a 40-year-old neighborhood gem with a diverse customer base. From pierced band members to frat boys to the family with a new baby, we cater to everyone – and usually simultaneously. We have lots of regulars that have been coming for years. It’s a casual, fun spot. Drinks are strong; food is good. That’s why I have been here for 14 years.

What’s on the menu?
The menu is eclectic. We serve everything from tapas and burritos to salmon and burgers. It’s not just Mexican – it’s everything. I’m slightly addicted to our shredded beef right now.

Do you have a signature drink?

Me? No, but I’ve perfected my margarita making skills here. This is a big margarita place; we make all kinds. I make a standard margarita with reposado tequila – it gives the drink a smoky flavor. Silver tequila is too smooth and I end up chugging it.

What’s the key to making a good margarita?
Lots of tequila. It doesn’t have to be high end; Sauza Gold works. Most importantly – you have to shake it.

How many different types of tequila are in stock?
We carry 25-30 brands, each brand has a few categories; about 80 total.

Which is your favorite?
In a margarita, Hornitos Reposado or Chinaco Reposado. Don Julio Añejo is my absolute personal favorite to drink straight. I’ve tried every single tequila here and I find it to be so smooth and delicious.

What do you love most about fall in Providence?
I love fall and the changing of the seasons. Apple picking. Football. We’ll be featuring some yummy Apple Cider drink specials throughout the fall as well as super spicy food specials for Halloween.

What’s the most memorable Halloween costume you’ve seen while working?
This tall guy with a beard came in dressed like a fairy. If you were standing behind him, with his really long hair, you would expect to see a female. He stunned a child who was trick or treating here. We give candy out to the kids every Halloween.

What’s the biggest misconception about Tortilla Flats?
That it’s a dive bar. It’s not.

What’s the biggest misconception about bartenders?
That bartending isn’t a “real job.” That kills me. We run around behind the bar like crazy dealing with different personalities. We do a lot.

tortilla flats, margaritas, bars, food, dining, restaurants, mexican, tex-mex, hope street, providence monthly

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