3 Margaritas restaurant is an example of the immigrant dream, which included financial success as well as a chance to go back home and help those left behind. The nine Morales kids, six girls and three boys, slept on mats on the floor of a two bedroom house at their small ranch.
After school they worked in the fields. Today all of them own at least one restaurant. After crossing the border Nicolas Morales ended up in Seattle where his brother Manuel lived.
The Morales brothers saved all they could knowing they wanted to open their own restaurant. They knew they were now in a new country, and they decided they’d better adapt if they wanted to make it. So Nicolas learned how to cook. They invested all of their savings in their first restaurant, Las Margaritas, a six-table place in Seattle. For six months they couldn’t even pay the rent and had to ask friends to loan them money.
Their luck changed when a food critic from Seattle Times paid them a visit and published a review that called Las Margaritas the best Mexican restaurant in the state. The next day, Morales said the food sold out in an hour and they had to close at 7 pm. Nicolas Morales and his brother, Manuel Morales, had 15 restaurants in Washington state before selling them to former employees and starting a new chain in Colorado, 3 Margaritas, with his brother Gustavo Morales.
Now Manuel, Nicolas and Gustavo Morales own 13 restaurants here, some as partnerships with their employees under the new name ‘MARGARITAS’. After living in the United States for 27 years and developing two chains of Mexican restaurants, Nicolas Morales is now a mayor in his hometown Cuautla, in the state of Jalisco, Mexico. His agenda is ambitious: to change the very conditions —lack of jobs, education and opportunity— that made him cross the border to the United States when he was 17.
Juile our server was so nice!!! and the food was MACULATE love this place !!!
GG
Gracie
3 days ago
5.0
We came here on a Sunday afternoon for burritos and our food was to us less than 5 minutes after ordering. We both got the loco burrito, which was pretty good. We would definitely come back :)
JM
John Martinez
May 12, 2026
3.0
April 2026 The service was slow as far as drink refills and order taking. We waiting over 10 minutes to get greeted or receive chips and salsa. Then when the waitress finally arrived, everything felt rushed. The workers seemed short handed or pressured. However, I did notice the manager casually walking around pretending to be working while everyone else is running around. Food was okay, but no matter what Mexican restaurant I go to, the cheese is never melted inside my cheese enchiladas. Nothing is worse that biting into cheese enchiladas with cold unrelated cheese inside. I think management and or the owners should go in and try some of the food that os being served. Food quality could be better. Restaurants need to go back to making their own sauces. It was very evident that they are opening a can of enchilada sauce and calling it a day.
ZA
Zonia Alvarado
May 9, 2026
5.0
We had a very good experience at 3 Margaritas in Thornton. The tortilla soup was comforting and flavorful, the carne asada was perfectly cooked, and the margaritas were delicious. The staff is always so friendly and attentive, which makes every visit feel welcoming.
We do miss the mariachis they used to have once a week, but the food and service continue to be outstanding.
LA
Lifeee Of Ashhh
Apr 18, 2026
5.0
I had such a great experience here! From the moment we walked in, the atmosphere felt warm and inviting. The staff were friendly, attentive, and made sure everything was just right without being overbearing.
The food was honestly the highlight—fresh, flavorful, and beautifully presented. Every dish we ordered came out perfectly cooked and full of taste. You can really tell they care about quality and detail.
What stood out most was the consistency—great service, great food, and a comfortable environment all in one place. Whether you’re going for a casual meal or something a little more special, this spot definitely delivers.
I’ll absolutely be coming back and recommending it to friends and family!
Frequently Asked Questions About 3 Margaritas Thornton
Where is 3 Margaritas Thornton located?
3 Margaritas Thornton is located at 25791 E Smoky Hill Rd, Aurora, CO 80016, United States.
What are the operating hours of 3 Margaritas Thornton?
3 Margaritas Thornton is open every day from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
What type of cuisine does 3 Margaritas Thornton offer?
3 Margaritas Thornton is a Mexican restaurant offering dishes like tacos, antojitos mexicanos, and margaritas.
Which payment options are accepted at 3 Margaritas Thornton?
They accept American Express, Cash, Check, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.
What languages are spoken at 3 Margaritas Thornton?
The staff at 3 Margaritas Thornton speak English and Spanish.
How can I contact 3 Margaritas Thornton?
You can reach them by phone at +1 303-280-0166 or by email at Eduamerica07@gmail.com.
Does 3 Margaritas Thornton have an online presence?
Yes, you can visit their website at https://thornton.3margaritas.com/ or follow their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/3margaritas/.
What can I do nearby after dining at 3 Margaritas Thornton?
After dining, you can visit nearby places like Blue Sky Lounge & Spa for relaxation or enjoy a coffee at Starbucks.
Are there other restaurants near 3 Margaritas Thornton?
Yes, near 3 Margaritas Thornton you can find Southlands 3 Margaritas, Wild Pepper Pizza 2 Aurora, and Papa Murphy's Pizza among others.
Where can customers find banking or financial services near 3 Margaritas Thornton?
Customers can access banking services nearby at U.S. Bank, US Bank, and Chase Bank, or use the LibertyX Bitcoin ATM located nearby.
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