Even if you're a bit rusty on your high school Spanish, at least one thing should be gleaned from that headline: Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner!
Despite the fact that the holiday is largely unobserved in Mexico and does not -- as is commonly and erroneously assumed -- celebrate the country's independence from Spain, Cinco de Mayo has taken on enormous significance in the United States, where expatriate Mexicans (and culturally-minded Americans) use the holiday to celebrate Mexican heritage and culture.
Whether you're planning on attending one of the city's many Cinco de Mayo festivals next week, one thing is certain: you should take advantage of the great dining deals across the city to fill your belly with Tex-Mex food and drinks, which will make you either want to siesta or fiesta afterwards. Either one is acceptable on Cinco de Mayo.
Cyclone Anaya's: The Midtown location of this local Tex-Mex chain will be hosting their annual Cinco Fest on May 1 and 2. The festivities get started at 4 p.m. on Friday night and last until 10 p.m., starting up again the next day at 2 p.m. and wrapping up at 10 p.m. again. Live music from Grupo Kache and sets from DJ Fuzion, DJ Seneca, Lounge 4407 and The Lost Boys will enhance the food and drink specials on hand each night.
Pico's: This solidly Mexican restaurant (no Tex-Mex here!) will celebrate five days of Cinco de Mayo beginning May 1 and running through May 5 with specials like soft-shell crabs and the patriotic chiles en nogada. On Cinco de Mayo, the Herradura Mariachi Band will be on hand at 7 p.m. to provide entertainment for the whole family.
Hugo's: Hugo's famous squash blossoms are in season at the upscale Mexican institution in Montrose. Head over on Tuesday, May 5 to enjoy this delicacy while taking advantage of drink specials and chef's specials from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Pappasito's: On Tuesday after 5 p.m., head down to your local Pappasito's to take advantage of some sizzling fajita deals: half-priced beef or chicken fajitas for two. While you're there, grab a $8.95 Grand Gold margarita that comes in a handy keepsake glass.
Cafe Adobe: Cinco de Mayo lasts all week at each of Cafe Adobe's locations. Celebrate with food and drink specials each evening from May 4 to the 8 while enjoying the sunset over the city from their rooftop perch of their Westheimer location.
Guayaba Latin Grill & Bar: Tequila-makers Don Julio will be hosting the Cinco de Mayo Tequila Party at Guayaba starting at 4 p.m. on Tuesday, with door prizes and giveaways throughout the night. Prior to May 5, however, don't miss the Cinco de Mayo Countdown from May 1 to 4, featuring $7.95 lunch fajitas, $10.95 dinner fajitas and $5.95 Cuervo margaritas.
Don't forget to check out these other Tex-Mex palaces for Cinco de Mayo specials (or just to grab a margarita): Molina's Cantina, Chuy's, Ninfa's on Navigation, Cielo and Paparrucho's.
