Cinco de Mayo is upon us!
The fifth of May is commonly mistaken as Mexican Independence Day, but it actually commemorates the underdog victory against France in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. Fast forward to the new millennium and the mostly American-celebrated holiday has become more of a tradition to eat delicious foods and to down dangerous amounts of margaritas.
Whatever your drive for partaking in festivities may be (and hopefully they’re culturally appropriate), we’ve got a list of wonderful ways to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in L.A. this year. Whether it’s a margarita mixology experience with a dash of history, a festive rooftop event with live DJs, L.A. spots that offer delicious Mexican fare or some irresistible specials, here’s what you can look forward to:
1. Head To Skybar’s Exclusive Cinco de Mayo Experience
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo at Skybar’s lush, ivy-covered pavilion atop the Mondrian Hotel. This exclusive rooftop party will feature a live world-class DJ spinning beats, mouthwatering cocktails and Mexican-inspired bites to get you into the fiesta spirit. You’ll even get a complimentary sombrero while you lounge in the poolside setting and take in the unparalleled views of L.A. Get your tickets here.
2. Get A Taste Of Mexico City On La Cha Cha Chá’s Rooftop Terrace
Sip on delicious margaritas and try revamped family recipes with stunning views of L.A. The sister location of the popular Terraza Cha Cha Cha in Mexico City’s Colona Tabacalera neighborhood, it will combine traditional dishes with Mexico City-born, LA-raised chef Alejandro Guzman signature touch. Reserve your spot here.
3. Indulge In All-You-Can-Eat Street Tacos For $20 At Lanea
Lanea is offering all-you-can-eat street tacos by East LA’s Barba Kush and two Cazadores cocktails for $20, which is more than enough reason to celebrate. Reserve your table here.
4. Get A Taste Of Authentic Oaxacan Flavors And Discover The Country’s Largest Collection Of Mezcals At Madre!
There are three Madre! restaurants making up this Oaxacan empire in L.A. and collectively, they are home to the largest mezcal collection in the country. The three locations— Torrance, Palms, and West Hollywood—each offer different settings and menus but they are all equally incredible. Owner Ivan Vasquez has combined his deep knowledge of mezcals and his mother’s traditional family recipes to create a rich offering of moles, goat barbacoa, and tlayudas along with over 400 mezcals (including rare ones) that Angelenos keep coming back for. For Cinco de Mayo there’ll be a ton of specials to look out for, including $5 tequila or mezcal shots and $9 margaritas. Booking way ahead is advised and you can do that here.
5. Head To Bar Hermanito Gorgeous Outdoor Patio For Special Cinco De Mayo Menu
The non-traditional Mexican restaurant infuses Japanese-inspired ingredients to create a mouthwatering menu served on the cutest patio in the Sawtelle neighborhood. Gather your friends and enjoy the 5-for-$28 pork pibil tacos special on Cinco de Mayo. Find out more here.
6. Enjoy Beach Vibes & Jacuzzi-Sized Margaritas At Baja Cantina
The Oaxacan-style restaurant has been serving up delicious Mexican food and colossal margaritas since 1975 and has become a landmark in the Venice/Marina del Rey area. This Cinco de Mayo, they’ve teamed up Don Julio to offer a VIP build-your-own-margarita with a complimentary flight of Baja Cantina’s three signature tequila cocktails: Spicy Margarita, Mango Pineapple Margarita, and the Watermelon Jicama Margarita. Find out more here.
7. Devour The Sizzling, Juicy Offerings Fresh Off The Spit At Brother Cousin Tacos
Most would argue that this is the best taco stand in West Los Angeles and it’s hard to disagree. Whether it’s the crispy tripa or the al pastor bursting with flavor and a touch of sweetness from the pineapple, it’s practically impossible not to come back for more. Just ask anyone in the 20-minute line at the stand outside Staples. Follow their Instagram for details.
8. Delve Into The History Of Agave Spirits With A Mixology Class & Guided Anejo Tasting
Take a festive journey through the history of the agave spirits with this Cinco de Mayo Margarita Party. Each ticket comes with a deluxe cocktail kit that serves two, a mix-along class featuring 2 tequila cocktails & an añejo tequila tasting with the Spirit Guides experts. Book your spot here.
8. Support The Businesses Of Olver Street In L.A.
This historic street in downtown Los Angeles, which is part of El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historic Monument, is lined with vendors selling everything from colorful piñatas and Mexican pottery to oversized sombreros. This restored district honor the city’s Mexican heritage and is one of the best places to get Mexican food to-go or browse traditional crafts. Find out more here.
10. Poke Fun At The Americanization Of Cinco De Mayo For A Good Cause At Guerrilla Tacos
What’s America’s favorite “Mexican” food? Why, Taco Bell, of course! So this year Arts District spot has decided to give the people what they want—with a Guerrilla Tacos twist. They’ll be creating a menu inspired by the food chain which includes plates like a Crunchwrap Supreme but crafted with high-quality ingredients and more, with all proceeds going to Save the Children. Make a reservation here.
Featured Image: Skybar LA
Also published on Medium.