Branch out from Taco Tuesday and enjoy all sorts of Mexican cuisine and drinks in celebration of Cinco de Mayo. The day officially marks Mexico’s May 5, 1862, victory over French forces, but these days it’s more about celebrating Latino history and culture in the United States.
Banditos Tacos & Tequila
The Westpost taqueria has big plans for May 5, including live entertainment, kid-friendly activities, contests and a limited-edition cocktail. Whether you party inside or on the patio, you can enjoy tacos, handmade chips, beer and ‘ritas. // 1301 S. Joyce St., Arlington (Westpost)
Bartaco
In honor of Cinco de Mayo, this chain is offering its first co-crafted #bartacosecret taco stuffed with seared lemongrass-coconut marinated shrimp and green papaya topped with a drizzle of spicy, garlicky and sweet Yellowbird Blue Agave Sriracha. The $3.95 special will be available from May 5-June 14 at area Bartaco locations, including Ballston and Mosaic District. // 4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Ballston); 2920 District Ave., Fairfax
Coco De Mayo at Coco B’s
Take advantage of this summer-like weather with brunch and a rooftop fiesta on May 4 and 5. During brunch on the patio, get unlimited mimosas for 25 cents each with the purchase of an entree. On the rooftop from 2-6 p.m., find music, games, giveaways and drink specials:$4 Miller Lites, $5 Mexican beers, $5 tequila Sunrise Shooters, $6 rail drinks and $7 margaritas. Maybe make it a stop on the Margarita Rooftop Stroll on May 4, from 3-10 p.m. Tickets cost $7.50-$20 and get you access to the rooftops at Coco B’s, Buena Vida Gastrolounge, Don Tito and Clarendon Ballroom. // 2854 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Clarendon)
Guapo’s
This family-owned local chain is going all in on Cinco de Mayo at all of its locations, including Shirlington and Falls Church. Enjoy giveaways, live music and grab a bite from an outdoor taquiza, a Mexican-style taco buffet. Also on the menu are bar specials: Hornitos Plata Tequila margaritas with lime juice and orange liqueur, Tres Generaciones tequila shots, and palomas made with Hornitos Reposado Tequila, house-made grapefruit soda, lime and Tajin seasoning. // 4028 Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington); 3052 Gatehouse Plaza, Falls ChurchÂ
Inca Social
The Peruvian eatery is celebrating Cinco on May 4 and 5 with $5 margaritas and $3 taco specials all day at the bar. Looking for something more substantial? Grab a seat in the dining room for a three-course menu ($42.50). Munch on steak tacos, fajitas and dulce de leche-filled churros. Pair your meal with cocktails such as the spicy mango or passion ’ritas. // 1776 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Rosslyn)
Punch Bowl Social
Party all weekend long at the Ballston Quarter location of this food and fun destination. On May 3, 4 and 5, search for prize-filled mini piñatas hidden throughout the restaurant, dance to a special Latin music playlist and sip $9 Patrόn Silver margaritas in souvenir Patrόn bottle glasses. Chips and salsa are free for each table from 5-9 each night. //4238 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Ballston)
Taco Bamba
Chef Victor Albisu’s beloved taqueria will celebrate the holiday with two blood orange margaritas and The Jeffrey (a spring roll stuffed with carne asada, pork al pastor, chorizo, chihuahua cheese, peppers, onions and more) for $22. (Note that this deal is not available at the Falls Church location.) // 4000 Wilson Blvd., Arlington (Ballston); 4041 Campbell Ave., Arlington (Shirlington)
Urbano
Block off part of your Cinco de Mayo weekend for this Mexican restaurant’s annual block party in the Mosaic District. Think taco tent, margarita cart and dancing to live music, plus there will be plenty of kid-friendly fun, such as face painting. Swing by 11 a.m.-midnight on May 4 and 5. // 2985 District Ave., Fairfax
Water Park
From 12:30-2:30 p.m. on May 5, National Landing’s new outdoor food hall will celebrate its first Cinco with music by local band Mariachi Ay Ay Ay and margaritas from various locations throughout the 1.6-acre space. Alexandria’s Kidcreate Studio will be on hand to help young party-goers make traditional Mexican clay art. // 1611 Crystal Drive, Arlington (National Landing)