Cinco De Mayo Dining Guide 2012
Cinco de Mayo is a holiday for celebrating Mexican heritage, though, not unlike St. Patrick's Day, most people consider it an excuse to throw back a few more tequila shots than they normally would and party all night. For those souls looking to join in the spirited festivities, The Daily Meal has you covered with this nationwide dining guide.
, New York City — This taqueria in Manhattan's Murray Hill neighborhood is offering a special menu in celebration of Cinco de Mayo this year. Enjoy live music, an open bar, and dishes such as the restaurant's signature Tuna on Crack (spicy tuna, avocado, cucumber, and chipotle aioli served with tortilla chips), grilled corn, and a selection of quesadillas). Seatings at 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m. are $100 per person and the seating at 8 p.m. costs $125 per person. (Photo courtesy of Teqa)
La Sandia, Santa Monica, Calif. – Richard Sandoval's restaurants are throwing a Guacamole Fest this Cinco de Mayo, the festivities will include five variations on this beloved avocado dip. Sandoval's other restaurants, Pampano and Maya will also be offering special menus this weekend for the holiday.
Distrito, Philadelphia — Jose Garces will start off Cinco de Mayo with a special brunch menu, then offer $5 margaritas and food specials throughout the day. Anticipate sweet corn with queso fresco and chipotle mayo, and nachos with grilled steak and chicken alambres.
New York Central, New York City — Head over to this restaurant in Manhattan's Grand Hyatt hotel if you're looking for a finer dining experience this Cinco de Mayo. Chef Christian Ragano will serve up smoked Florida rock shrimp tacos and the restaurant's signature margarita.
(via Tackle Box), Washington, D.C. — Since construction on chef Mike Isabella's newest venture, Bandolero, is taking longer than expected, he is temporarily taking over Tackle Box in the Cleveland Park neighborhood to test out his new Mexican-inspired menu. On Cinco de Mayo, "Bandolero" will be serving up dishes and drinks à la carte, including a selection of Mexican dips, tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas. (Photo courtesy of Greg Powers)
El Vez, Philadelphia — Stephen Starr's Mexican hot spot is hosting a Cinco de Mayo block party that begins at noon and includes flowing margaritas, a DJ and live music, and of course, plenty of food to go around.
Tres, San Francisco — Tres is kicking off the Cinco de Mayo festivities a day early with Luchadores wrestling featuring LIVE 105′s No Name as Captain Insaneo and the Chicano Flames for "Quatro De Mayhem." Watch the action and enjoy a free taco bar for the first hour of the event. On the holiday, the restaurant and bar will offer a selection of their house specialties along with tequila and beer specials all day.
, New York City — Head over to Stone Street in Manhattan's Financial District for an outrageous Cinco de Mayo celebration hosted by Mad Dog & Beans. They have a weekend extravaganza of festivities planned, including various prize giveaways and raffles (you could win a restaurant gift card, an iPad, or even a vacation). They're pairing with Patrón and Dos Equis to offer drink specials alongside their menu of Mexican specialties. (Photo courtesy of Facebook/Mad Dog & Beans)
Mad Mex, Philadelphia — The celebration at Mad Mex kicks off with "Breakfast Mex," which features a selection of authentic Mexican dishes to get the day started on the right track. That's followed by $5 Dos Equis drafts all day, along with other food and drink specials. Enter for a chance to win a year of free food and drink at Mad Mex.
, New Orleans — Stop by Superior Grill's annual Cinco de Mayo Block Party for a unique holiday celebration. Enjoy guacamole, salsa, and plenty of tacos, along with dirt-cheap margarita and beer specials. The entertainment will be provided by a number of local bands. (Photo courtesy of Facebook/Superior Grill)
Poquitos, Seattle — In addition to offering their full menu of authentic Mexican dishes all day, Poquitos will also be debuting their newest brew from Elysian Brewing, "Hombre" Mexican Lager.