Where To Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

By Staff in Food on Apr 28, 2013 8:00PM

Cinco de Mayo, which commemorates Mexico's surprising 1862 defeat of the French in the Battle of Puebla, is a chance to celebrate Mexican culture. Even though Cinco de Mayo falls on a Sunday this year, there's no shortage of fiestas and awesome deals all weekend long (did we mention it's Derby weekend too?) Whether you're looking for a mariachi or margarita, here's where to celebrate Cinco de Mayo this year.

The Party Animal: Hop aboard the Dos Equis Trolley Bar Crawl hosted by the Pioneer Tavern Group. A free trolley stacked with plenty of Dos Equis brews and Maestro Dobel Tequila will start at Lottie's Pub and travel to The Pony and Frontier starting at 1 p.m. Each location will have drink and food specials and raffle off prizes. (1925 W. Cortland, 773-489-0738)

The Brunch Lover: Kickoff your Cinco de Mayo at River North's new farm-to-tavern concept, Central Standard. The "South of the Border" themed menu will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is set to include highlights such as ceviche tostados, chicharones and chilaquiles, plus a selection of desserts and festive drinks. (169 W. Kinzie, 312-436-2020)

The Sports Junkie: Feel like partying and watching the NBA and NHL playoffs? Cinco de Moonshine is the answer! Moonshine in Wicker Park is celebrating Cinco de Mayo and The Kentucky Derby. Enjoy an outside taco bar, wall-to-wall high def televisions broadcasting your favorite team, pinata bashing contests and drink specials all weekend long. (1824 W. Division, 773-862-8686)

The Sweet Tooth: If habanero isn't your thing, check out Taco Joint's collaboration with neighbor, Glazed and Infused. The Lincoln Park taco spot is teaming up with the doughnut shop for a special Cinco de Mayo treat. Margarita doughnuts will be available Friday, May 3 to Sunday, May 5. The mini doughnuts (three for $6 or six for $10) include tequila, fresh lime zest and sea salt. (1969 N. Halsted St., 312-951-2457)

The Romantic: Chicago's legendary fondue spot, Geja's Cafe, is going festive for the fifth offering the option of chili con queso fondue paired with tortilla chips. Five dollars will also get you a bottle of Negro Modelo or a traditional margarita. (340 W. Armitage, 773-281-9101)

The Authentic: For a full-on authentic Cinco de Mayo meal head to Humboldt Park's Cemitas Puebla. The hotspot which has been featured on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives is known for its original take on Poblano cuisine. From tortas to cemitas and Oaxacan cheese it's about as close as you'll get to Mexico without boarding a plane. (3619 W. North Ave., 773-772-8435)

— By Jennifer Fisher