From a historical standpoint, Cinco De Mayo –the fifth of May- is a day set apart that commemorates the victory of the Mexican army over France in 1862 at the Battle of Puebla. In addition to this historical commemoration, Cinco De Mayo has been transformed to a holiday in the United States to celebrate the richness of Mexican culture and heritage. Parades, parties, mariachi music and folk dancing are just some of the ways that Cinco De Mayo can be celebrated.
For us, no Cinco De Mayo celebration is complete without indulging in the bold and rich flavors of Mexican food. To inspire your celebration we have compiled a list of 7 of the best Mexican restaurants in the United States.
1. Drunken Worm- Kansas City, Missouri
With a selection of over 70 different tequilas and mescals, the Drunken Worm is one of the best Kansas City spots for celebrating Cinco De Mayo. Specializing in their mouthwatering street tacos and tamales, you are guaranteed to find authenticity in the food here.
website | 1405 W 39th St, Kansas City, Missouri |(816) 326-7209
2. El Big Bad – Houston, Texas
If you find yourself in Houston, you do not want to miss out on the Cinco De Mayo celebration El Big Bad is throwing! Starting at 11 am, there will be $4 margaritas and wonderful food specials. The Al Pastor Borracho tacos El Big Bad serves up are enough to have you celebrating all weekend.
website | 419 Travis Street, Houston, TX 77002 | (713) 229-8181
3. Café Tu Tu Tango – Orlando, Florida
Part of the beauty of celebrating Cinco De Mayo is community, and Café Tu Tu Tango is surely a restaurant that knows the power of community. Although the menu at this restaurant is eclectic and diverse and not purely authentically Mexican, there are not many places that you can eat pizza and tacos at the same time! Also, Café Tu Tu Tango frequently showcases local artists, so you are certain to have a rich cultural experience here!
website | 8625 International Dr, Orlando, FL 32819 | (407) 248-2222
4. Tuco and Blondie – Chicago, Illinois
What better way to celebrate Cinco De Mayo than with a sizzling hot plate of Tuco and Blondie’s famous fajitas and one of their ice cold Passion Fruit margaritas? In addition to this every day offering, this vibrant restaurant will also be hosting a special Cinco De Mayo celebration with brunch starting at 9 am and an outdoor taco tent.
website | 3358 N Southport Ave., Chicago, IL 60657 |(773) 327-8226
5. El Altoradero – Brooklyn, New York
If you want to experience authentic Mexican flavors, El Altoradero is one of the absolute best places on the East coast. Chef Denisse Lina Chavez truly brings emotion and soul in to her menu with items like freshly made blue corn tortillas, mouthwatering mole sauce, and her famous carnitas. There is no way to go wrong with celebrating at El Atoradero.
website | 708 Washington Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11238 | (718) 399-8226
6. Cantina Leña – Seattle, Washington
At first thought, noteworthy Mexican food may not come to mind when you think of the city of Seattle, however, Cantina Leña is a restaurant that cannot be overlooked. Chef Brian Madayag plays great respect to the traditional and authentic Yucatan flavors that inspire his culinary creations, like the tender Achiote Pork Shoulder. Trust that your taste buds will be in good hands at Cantina Leña.
website | 2101 5th Ave Seattle WA 98121 | (206) 519- 5723
7. Guelaguetza – Los Angeles, California
In celebrating Mexican culture, it is important to note that Mexican cuisine and flavors can differ depending on region. Guelaguetza is a restaurant that showcases and delivers the authenticity of Oaxaca specifically (a state in Southern Mexico). In serving up delicious food that truly honors Oaxaca, Guelaguetza, more than a restaurant, is a cultural advocate. If you truly want to have a flavor experience like none other, you have to have one of Guelaguetza’s mole dishes.
website | 3014 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90006 | (213) 427-0608
What is your favorite Mexican restaurant?
Let us know in the comments below.
Nina says
I don't know if you know anything about good Mexican food, but living in Kansas City, I can tell you there is farrrrrrrrr better Mexican food to be had then at the Drunken Worm. They have a legit tequila selection, and that's pretty much it. Their food is decent at best. The environment and staff are awesome. But that's NOT where you go for good Mexican food. Get out more, homie.