What is Cinco de Mayo?

It might come as a surprise to some who thinks Cinco de Mayo is, in fact, Mexico’s Independence Day, yet it isn’t! Indeed May 5th marks the anniversary of the Mexican Militia’s win over the French Army in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. However, this day has quickly become a time to drink tequila and indulge in the delicious Mexican cuisine. To help plan your Cinco de Mayo, we’ve rounded up the best spots to enjoy tacos all across Canada.

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Halifax

Enjoy the sun on the heated patio at Antojo Tacos + Tequila (1667 Argyle St.)

With happy hour specials running through all day long, have a Corona and well brand drinks for $4 and margaritas for $8. In recent years, the food seen in Halifax has evolved to host some of the best spots to eat in the country. Antojo is a fun spot to grab a drink and a bite walking distance to the other attractions in downtown Halifax and only minutes away from the water.

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Montreal

Celebrate La Catrina‘s opening in the Old Port (117 rue de la Commune Ouest)

Montreal is welcoming its newest tacos spot in the heart of Montreal’s Old Port with delicious recipes cooked up by the owner’s mom mixed with a personal touch from the chef. For the opening, margaritas will be at $5 and since the city will be graced with sunshine and warm weather, you can sit back and relax on the patio. Also, opening later this month, there’ll also be a taco counter opened in the back which will be accessible through La Capitale’s street alley. That being said, one can come at the wee hour of the night to get a late night taco fix!

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Toronto

Bring the beach to you at Playa Cabana (111 Dupont St.)

Playa Cabana translates to “beach cabin” which is safe to assume visitors will be treated to tasty margaritas and mojitos upon their visit.  Along Dupont St. there are two taqueria’s owned by the Playa Cabana group or else head to the junction for their more lively outpost. While the menus at each are delicious, make your reservation in advance based on the ambiance.

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Calgary

Enjoy Native Tongue Taqueria‘s reopening (235 12th Ave. SW)

After a long month of renovations, Native Tongue Taqueria is opening its doors once again to the public on Saturday, May 4th, which means visitors will once again enjoy the authentic Taqueria beaming with a rustic cantina vibe that provides a fun and informal setting for special events and gatherings. Priding themselves as one of the best restaurants in the city and offering a Mezcal and Tequila station, this is where to be on Cinco de Mayo if you’re in Calgary.

Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Vancouver

Enjoy fast “slow” food at Tacofino (2327 E Hastings St.)

When you hear about how it all started with a food truck counts several joints in the Vancouver area… you know it’s good. Using environmentally responsible products, and organic and/or local producers whenever possible, you’ll know that everything that will land on your plate will be a delight to your taste buds.

Are you celebrating Cinco de Mayo on Sunday? Let us know where your favourite restaurant is in your city!