Cinco de Mayo commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1962 against overwhelming odds. May 5 was celebrated a year later in Mexico and Los Angeles, where the U.S. and Mexican flags flew alongside each other at a parade. Although it has since declined in popularity in Mexico, Cinco de Mayo has spread across America. In Chicago, which has a large, vibrant Mexican community, that means there are many places having Cinco de Mayo specials. Here are our favorites.
Lirica
This Latin-inspired restaurant at Navy Pier aims to honor Spanish, Portuguese and Caribbean flavors and traditions. For Cinco de Mayo, Lirica is open for lunch and dinner on Monday, May 5 with a special pairings menu. Feast on Baja fish tacos with Modelo Premium, carnitas empanadas with a pineapple Fresno margarita or steak nachos with a Mexico City sour. Head in between 2 and 6 p.m. for a live DJ and a complimentary rose.
Cesar’s Killer Margaritas
Known for its huge menu of Mexican cuisine, Cesar’s Killer Margaritas in Lakeview takes Cinco de Mayo seriously. For Cesar’s, one day to celebrate isn’t enough, so festivities will carry on throughout the week. Offering free contests and giveaways, as well as a margarita flight with strawberry, lime and sour apple margaritas to honor the Mexican flag (pictured above), Cesar’s is a classic spot for Cinco de Mayo festivities.
Robert’s Pizza & Dough Company
Although pizza isn’t the first food associated with Cinco de Mayo, Robert’s Pizza & Dough Company is not lacking in the holiday celebrations. Cinco de Mayo specials are available at the Streeterville restaurant from May 3 – 5, including $30 margarita flights, chicken tinga pizza and shrimp ceviche. A live mariachi band performs on Saturday from 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
El Nuevo Mexicano
El Nuevo Mexicano in Lakeview East will have all the elements of a vibrant and festive Cinco de Mayo celebration. From May 1 – 5, guests are welcome to go in and join the party with a live mariachi band, $10 margaritas, $5 Jimador shots, $5 imported beers and more. Head in for weekend brunch for bottomless mimosas or a house margarita plus an entree for $33 per person.
Loft 22
In River North, Loft 22 is being taken over by Tzuco and Kayao on Cinco de Mayo for a night organized by the Consulate General of Mexico in Chicago. The evening features an open bar of Mexican wines and cocktails, oysters and passed appetizers inspired by Baja California and a whole tuna that will be cut on-site and turned into ceviches and tiraditos. Tickets start at $60 and are available at Eventbrite.
Manchmanteles
Bucktown’s Manchamanteles opens its patio season on Cinco de Mayo. That night will feature $10 margaritas and the launch of Maiz Dorado, a collaboration with Marz Community Brewing Co. But the party starts well before, with a special menu beginning April 30. It includes a hamachi ceviche, flor de calabaza quesadilla and a pair of special margaritas. Reserve a table on Tock.
El Mariachi Tequila Bar
Family-founded in 1996, El Mariachi Tequila Bar in Lakeview East has become a neighborhood staple and a go-to spot for Cinco de Mayo celebrations. Start the party early with a boozy brunch, served Friday through Sunday from 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. For $31.99, guests may enjoy bottomless mimosas and a lunch entree. Codigo Tequila will be on-site Friday from 7 – 9 p.m. for a complimentary tasting.
Amerikas
Amerikas in Oak Park is offering Cinco de Mayo specials on Monday, May 5. From 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., indulge in a $10 margarita or $5 michelada. Pair with a dish curated by owner and chef Armando Gonzalez, including beer-braised pork tacos or the vegetarian chile relleno.
Tala House
Up in Andersonville, Tala House has a special pop-up menu planned. From May 1 – 5, the New American restaurant is incorporating Mexican flavors into a variety of dishes, including short rib tacos, ahi amarillo chicken breast and tuna crudo tostada. Pair with a selection of Mexican wines or one of seven craft cocktails.
