On the fifth of May, bars throughout the city whip out their caches of salt and lime. Most people in the city see the holiday as the year’s best excuse to get tipsy on Margaritas. Little do they know that they are celebrating a 19th Century battle between Mexican and French forces. On May 5th 1862 the underdog Mexican army (outnumbered 2 to 1) whooped the well equipped French in the Battle of Puebla. While the historical origins of Cinco de Mayo have become hazy (too many Coronas), the day is still a great reason to go out and get whooped by too many tequila shots.
Here are some happenings throughout the city. Don’t get too excited now that you know the party’s historic origins. It’s a time to drink, not a time to beat up French tourists.
-The day marks the official opening of Hudson Terrace, Midtown’s newest rooftop lounge. If it’s nice enough out, some margaritas on the roof could be a good way to start. The outdoor deck comes equipped with lounge chairs that are perfect for a siesta before heading on to the next party.
-Whistlin Dixies wins the award for best funny talk. They are calling it Cinco de Drinko, and are celebrating with $3 Coronas throughout the day. It’s a bit of a trek (located at 714 11th Avenue and 51st Street) but they are offering free margaritas from 5:30 – 7pm to anyone who RSVP’s to katiej@gmail.com.
-Vamos Tacos and Tequila, at 348 First Ave, has stretched the party into a four day affair. They promise $6 Frozen Margaritas and music by Christopher Adam on the day itself.
-Tired of tequila? Try to snag a spot at Phil Ward’s new cocktail den Mayahuel (304 East 6th Street). Many of their specialty drinks are built around the smoky Mexican spirit Mescal, which is a nice change of pace from the sickly sweet margaritas you’re likely to see elsewhere. This place is classy. If you want to bury your face in chips and salsa, head to Blockheads instead.
-If dinner time comes and you need to soak up all those margaritas with some gourmet guac, head over to Mercadtio (179 Avenue B between 11th and 12th Streets). They are offering a special tasting menu at only $30 a person. Better yet, the restaurant promises some live mariachi music to go with their delicious tacos.
If none of these sound like suitably festive options, there’s always the time tested Cinco celebratory act of locking yourself in your apartment with a bottle of tequila. Yes, we know that’s what you usually do on most Tuesdays, but since it’s a holiday, we suggest springing for a more expensive bottle.
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