Whether you’re a history buff interested in Mexico’s 1862 victory over the French or celebrating the unofficial start of summer with friends, Cinco de Mayo is the perfect time to visit any of NoVA’s Central and South American restaurants.
Many restaurants offer deals that maximize fun while taking it easy on your wallet. Check out any of these restaurants for a Cinco de Mayo experience to remember. (And, remember to always drink responsibly.)
Alexandria Bier Garden
Start your day with a Cinco de Mayo–themed brunch of tacos and chilaquiles. While German and Belgian beer is the typical fare here, on Sunday, margaritas will flow for just $5, along with $3 tacos. After brunch, head to the outdoor patio for live music starting at 1 p.m. Reservations are recommended. 710 King St., Alexandria
Banditos Tacos & Tequila
Known for its impressive collection of tequila and mezcal, this Fairfax eatery brings the heat for Cinco de Mayo. The fun kicks off at 11 a.m. with live music from Spike Burton, as well as $3 Cinco Shooters, door prizes, outdoor games, and piñatas. Don’t forget to indulge in an upside-down margarita shot. 10621 Braddock Rd., Fairfax
Chuy’s
You can’t go wrong with a classic Tex-Mex, and Chuy’s knows a thing or two about food and drinks. Cinco de Mayo deals include $10 Grande housemade margaritas, $6 regular margaritas, $1 floater shots, and $5 chips and dip. 6793 Springfield Mall, Springfield
El Paso Café
It may not be below the border, but this restaurant’s Cinco de Mayo party runs from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. It will feature live music, lots of house margaritas, and the unveiling of brand-new menu items. Try the Coronarita, a giant margarita with Hornitos tequila, triple sec, and an upside-down bottle of Corona. 4235 N. Pershing Dr., Arlington
Guapo’s
This Shirlington restaurant plans to welcome Cinco de Mayo with a full-day extravaganza. The event will have live music, giveaways, and drink specials. Come ready to feast — Guapo’s will be serving an outdoor taquiza, a Mexican-style buffet, as well as mixed drinks and margaritas at its outdoor bar. 4028 Campbell Ave., Arlington
Inca Social
Even Peruvian restaurants are joining in the celebration. This restaurant will serve a signature three-course menu from May 1 to May 5, complete with perfectly paired margaritas. You can also snag $5 house margaritas and $3 tacos on Saturday and Sunday. Dance the night away with live music starting at 1 p.m. Reservations are recommended. 2670 Avenir Pl., Vienna; 1776 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Shipgarten
Get ready to dance until you drop during Shipgarten’s Saturday, May 4 celebration. At this dog-friendly, kid-friendly event, sample over 40 beers and ciders and enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. There will be outdoor games, a jalapeño-eating contest, and a chance to win gift cards. 7581 Colshire Dr., McLean
Taco Bamba
Head to the nearest Taco Bamba on May 5 to get two blood orange margaritas and a Jeffrey for $22. Never had a Jeffrey? It’s the taqueria’s signature crispy spring roll, filled with carne asada, pork al pastor, chorizo, Chihuahua cheese, and peppers and onions. The deal is available at all NoVA locations except Falls Church. Multiple locations
Urbano
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Old Town Alexandria or in Mosaic. There will be live music on both Saturday and Sunday, a kids’ corner, music, outdoor patio seating, and extended hours from 11 a.m. until midnight. Try the birria tacos with shredded beef and consommé rojo. 116 King St., Alexandria; 2985 District Ave., Fairfax
Feature image, stock.adobe.com
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