Image courtesy of Tocaya.
Cinco de Mayo began as a holiday commemorating Mexico’s 1862 victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla. What better way to celebrate that triumph than with tacos, margaritas, mariachis, and festivities? See below for some ideas on how to enjoy this celebration of Mexican-American culture. ¡Salud!
Mariachi Plaza in Boyle Heights is the site of a festive Cinco de Mayo celebration from 4-8 pm on Monday. Celebrate Mexican culture with live mariachi performances, artisanal vendors, and fun for all ages. More info
Celebrity chef duo Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken are celebrating Cinco de Mayo in style at Socalo, their fresh-Mex eatery in Santa Monica. Though usually closed on Mondays, Socalo will be open this go-round for Cinco de Mayo. Socalo’s festive patio dinner experience will include mezcal tastings from Hedonistas, a full bar, and exclusive dishes made for this night only. Among the offerings: Tacos filled with Carne Asada, Baja Shrimp, Carnitas, Gobernador Shrimp, Jackfruit, or Barbacoa; Mushroom Dobladitas; and various Tlayudas. More info
Head to Long Beach’s Hotel Maya for its annual “Cinco de Maya” celebration from 5-9 p.m. on Monday. Drink highlights include a $25 margarita flight (choose from watermelon, mango, guava, and more), $7 bottled cervezas, and a premium tequila flight for $36. Take in harbor views while indulging in street tacos, loaded chicken nachos, or a steak quesadilla. Hotel Maya
Hit Dog Haus for breakfast on Cinco de Mayo for a unique take on a breakfast burrito. The Bacon & Sausage Breakfast Chimichangah is made up of three scrambled eggs, chopped cheese breakfast sausage, crispy bacon, tater tots, and miso ranch. Stuffed into a flour tortilla that’s fried golden brown and served with maple sriracha sauce, it’s available until June 3. Dog Haus
Modern taqueria Descanso recently opened a second location in the Miracle Mile after the success of its first location in Costa Mesa. Head to either Descanso location on Cinco de Mayo, where highlights include All Day Happy Hour, takeout cocktails and margaritas ($25, serving 4-6), and appetizer platters heaping with ceviche, guacamole, elote asado, and more. Descanso
Photo credit: Hotel Maya.
Exceptional plant-based mini-chain Cafe Gratitude offers a special menu for Cinco de Mayo. For just $15, savor a non-alcoholic drink like horchata or Tepahce Soda, plus your choice of Mexican-inspired entrees, including I Am Caring (Loaded Nachos), I Am Loyal (Taquitos Dorados), I Am Transformed (two tacos), or Yo Soy Mucho (a hearty Mexican bowl). Cafe Gratitude
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo with All Day Happy Hour at all seven Southern California Tocaya locations. In honor of the holiday, Tocaya is offering $2 off all margaritas, along with $3 beers, $6 wines, and side dishes for as low as $2. You might want to try the Watermelon Margarita, with Espolón blanco, watermelon, lime, agave, mint, and tajin. More info
Who doesn’t love All-Day Happy Hour? Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at El Granjero Cantina on Monday, May 5, for happy hour specials on margaritas, tacos, cervezas, and more. We’re big fans of the food, drink, and people-watching at El Granjero Cantina, located on the plaza at a true L.A. landmark, The Original Farmers Market, located at 3rd and Fairfax since 1934. More info
While you’re at The Original Farmers Market, why not head over to Du-Par’s? An Original Farmers Market stalwart since 1938, Du-Par’s is celebrating Cinco de Mayo with a special dish: Churro Cinnamon Hotcakes. The diner’s famed hotcakes are topped with caramel sauce, cinnamon, whipped cream, and powdered sugar. More info
Solita Tacos & Margaritas, located in Huntington Beach and Valencia, is throwing a day-long Cinco de Mayo celebration. Solita will also feature live music, an All-Day Happy Hour featuring $4 Tacos, and several shot specials: $8 El Jimador Blanco, $10 Herradura Blanco, $13 Don Julio Blanco, and $10 Lalo Blanco. More info
