When heat and humidity turn your skin into a moist tea cake, duck into one of these hot spots for a refreshing cocktail. —Julie Blacklidge
Ciudad: Abuela, $9
Eighty-six the margarita and sample an alternative tequila concoction—top-shelf blanco tequila mixed with freshly pressed apple and Key lime juices and a splash of Gran Gala. Tequila never tasted so smooth. 3888 Oak Lawn Ave., Ste. 135. 214-219-3141.
Fireside Pies: Vanilla Flirtini, $8
This sassy drink—vanilla-scented vodka, Chambord, and pineapple juice topped off with a frothy Prosecco—slaps your lips like a hot, juicy kiss. 2820 N. Henderson Ave. 214-370-3916.
La Duni: La Duni Passion, $7.50
Caution: sip this frozen treat slowly to avoid the ice-cream headache. The blend of orange juice and passion fruit purée with splashes of coconut rum and coconut cream swings your mind to the tropical island of your choice. 4620 McKinney Ave. 214-520-7300.
The Mansion on Turtle Creek: Blood Orange Cosmopolitan, $11
The elegant bar here has given the cosmo a much needed facelift by adding Charbay Blood Orange Vodka to the mix. 2821 Turtle Creek Blvd. 214-559-4226.
Tom Tom Noodle House: Blackberry Mojito, $7
Ah, minty-fresh rum on a hot summer day. Now add puréed blackberries and soda for a fizzy, fruity kick. This Caribbean staple is sure to keep you cool while you people watch on the patio. West Village, 3699 McKinney Ave., Ste. 319. 214-522-9866.
Photo: Kevin Hunter Marple