According to Aztec lore, the goddess of fertility, Mayahuel, and the god of redemption, Quetzalcoatl, were deeply in love. However, as in many love stories, Mayahuel’s family didn’t approve. That was probably because Quetzalcoatl was sent by the Aztecs to kill Mayhuel’s grandmother, Tzinzimiti, the goddess of darkness and evil.

So the two lovers ran away and turned into two branches of a tree to hide. However, grandma found them and during a long battle, Mayahuel was killed. Quetzalcoatl buried her in the earth where she grew into a beautiful Agave plant. He then returned to the sky to kill Tzinzimiti and return sunlight to the Aztecs once and for all. However, he was sad for the loss of his love. So the other gods gave the Agave a liquid that he could drink that would alleviate his broken heart. That liquid was tequila. 

So on Thursday, July 24, we honor of the Aztecs and their pain-killing tequila with National Tequila Day.

Machete: With over 200 types of tequila and mescal, Machete is one of Denver’s tequila experts. Whether straight up or in one of the restaurant’s signature margaritas, Machete will make the cut when it comes to premium tequila. Happy hour, or happy afternoon as we like to call it, because it runs from 11 AM to 6 PM, features $6 Machete, Skinny, and Coin Purse margaritas. (1730 Wynkoop St.; 720-612-7698 and 2817 E. 3^rd Ave.; 303-333-1567)

La Biblioteca: Over in Riverfront Park, La Bibioteca just happens to have one of the largest collections of tequilas, mezcals and agave spirits in the country. Here you will find tequilas aged anywhere from seven days to 25 years. The day’s cocktail is the Cucumber Pepino made with Serrano-infused tequila, cucumber and citrus for only $10. (1610 Little Raven St. #200; 720-904-0965)

Lola Mexican Fish House: Guests will find over 220 tequilas at Lola’s so all tastes will be satisfied. If you prefer your tequila in a cocktail, try the Q Coin made with muddled cucumber, agave nectar, fresh lime, El Tesoro Platinum and a squeeze of orange for $10. (1575 Boulder St.;720-570-8686)

Tamayo: Over in Larimer Square, Tamayo also has a fine selection of over 150 tequilas. Try a flight or better yet, sip a Sandia Tajin cocktail made with Agavales Blanco, watermelon, tajin simple syrup, and a squeeze of citrus for only $11. All drinks can be paired with the views from the rooftop terrace. (1400 Larimer St.; 720-946-1433)

Tequila’s: With the name Tequila’s, you can expect the restaurant to have a few behind the bar. As in over 100. Although brands may vary by location, aficionados can still find a flight of Jalisco’s premium tequilas, proving that good tequila can be found in the suburbs. And don’t let the name fool you either. Tequila’s is family-friendly with a large menu that is perfect for picky eaters. Some locations will celebrate National Tequila Day with a live mariachi band. (Locations in Arvada, Aurora, Lakewood and Golden)

ViewHouse: Over near Coors Field, the ViewHouse is serving up a tequila mule. The Paloma Mule is made with grapefruit juice, soda, a splash of ginger beer, fresh lime and a dose of Patron served in a shiny copper mug with a salted rim for $8. Enjoy on the shaded patio if the day is warm. (2015 Market St.; 720-878-2015)

Zengo: La Biblioteca’s sister restaurant Zengo also has a serious collection of tequilas, including a hand-selected barrel of Herradura Reposado from Chef and Owner Richard Sandoval. Enjoy this blend of cinnamon spice and light oak for only $12. The day’s cocktail is the El Diablo made with habanero-infused blanco tequila, mango and lime for $10. (1610 Little Raven St.; 720-904-0965)

Photo via Flickr