It’s Cinco de Mayo! And who doesn’t like an excuse to eat Mexican food and drinks? In a place as diverse as Downtown New York, there is a wide range of places to choose from. Fortunately for you, we’ve found the absolute best places to celebrate this festive holiday.
This yearly holiday emerged from the Mexican army’s victory over France more than 150 years ago during the Franco-Mexican War–particularly the Battle of Puebla. It has since grown to become a popular holiday in the United States during which Mexican culture and heritage is celebrated. Interestingly enough, May 5th is not celebrated as much in Mexico itself where the day is considered to be like any other.
Here are Downtown’s top picks for places to celebrate in the area.
Original and authentic, La Contenta’s goal is to showcase the owner’s Mexican roots with his classical French culinary training, offering Mexican cuisine with French accents. If you want to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in a refined, calm environment this is the place for you.
Address: 102 Norfolk Street, New York, NY 10002
On May 5th, Dos Caminos will have a special menu to make all of your Cinco de Mayo dreams come true. You’ll be able to pick from a list of authentic Mexican dishes and drinks. Bring friends and order the special Ponche Tropical tequila punch bowl (serves up to 4 people!). The party doesn’t stop there with live music, giveaways and much more.
Address: 475 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Located at the Dream Hotel in Chelsea, this Mexican style restaurant will also be celebrating this holiday. Join in tomorrow to enjoy the cafe all day long and refined Mexican cooking.
Address: 355 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011
Combining all sorts of Latin flavor, TAVO’s rich seasoning and mixed ingredients leaves you wanting more every time. Although not your typical Mexican cuisine, this simple but carefully thought out menu has you choosing between the best of the best.
Address: 615 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014
Serving exclusively Mexican cuisine, Añejo offers a street food inspired menu varying from tacos to sliders. Known for it’s energetic feel, this restaurant will most definitely be celebrating Cinco de Mayo. If you are feeling festive, this will be the place to be tomorrow.
Address: 301 Church St, New York, NY 10013
And finally, although not in Downtown, Cantina Rooftop is definitely at the top of our list. Located in Midtown with an amazing rooftop overlooking the city and a variety of drinks and dishes to satisfy your Mexican cravings, this place is perfect for Cinco de Mayo.
Address: 605 W 48th St, New York, NY 10036
Celebrate at home
If you’re not feeling up for a night out, we have a couple cocktail recipes for you to shake up yourself. Thanks to Avión, we have the best tequila recipes for you to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in the comfort of your own home.
Sandia Fresca
- 2 oz. Avion Reposado
- 1 oz. fresh watermelon juice
- 0.75 oz. lime juice
- 0.5 oz. agave nectar
- Spiced Rim: 1 part kosher salt, 1 part superfine sugar, and ½ part cayenne.
Shake all ingredients with ice and fine strain into a cocktail glass with a spiced rim
Blood Orange Margarita
- 1.5 oz. Avión Silver
- .75 oz. fresh blood orange juice
- .5 oz. fresh squeezed lime juice
- .75 oz. agave nectar
In a cocktail shaker add all ingredients with ice. Shake and strain. Serve over fresh ice and garnish with an orange twist.
Now there’s no excuse not to celebrate. Happy Cinco de Mayo!
