The sounds of live mariachi bands will soon echo from bars and restaurants on the Upper East Side, the tantalizing aroma of Mexican cuisine filling the air, signaling the start of Cinco de Mayo festivities. Translating to ‘May 5th,’ the holiday, marking that country’s victory over France in the 1862 Battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War, has become a celebration of Mexican culture in the United States. Whether you’re looking for live music, hospitality, or the best margaritas and tacos, the UES has everything you need and más.
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Toloache
You’ll be in good hands if you spend the holiday with Toloache at 166 East 82nd Street between Lexington and Third Avenues.
Owned by celebrity chef Juan Medina, this contemporary Mexican eatery is known for its impressive tequila list and ceviche options. Toloache will also have a customized Cinco de Mayo menu sure will meet your standards.
Special cocktails include the refreshing ‘El Alebrije,’ which combines dragon fruit, lime, agave, and Patron Silver. The ‘Picosito’ is for those needing a little spice, as jalapeno and pineapple are the main ingredients. Food specials range from a ribeye chicharron quesadilla to seafood tamales and al Pastor skewers.
Enjoy the ambiance; elegant Mexican decor adorns this two-story bistro.
Cascalote
If you’re a sucker for home-cooked meals and hospitality, stop by Cascalote at 1712 Second Avenue between East 89th and 90th Streets.
After a painfully long wait, this family-owned Latin bistro finally obtained a liquor license and will reopen its doors just in time to accommodate your Cinco de Mayo plans.
Founder Chef Julian Hoyos and his dedicated family take on various roles to ensure your experience is unmatched. Mexican staples like Elote, Carne Asada, and Birria Tacos line Cascalote’s Cinco de Mayo menu.
The restaurant also takes pride in its margaritas with a ‘powerful kick,’ which will sell for just $11 on Friday. Cascalote will be open for Cinco de Mayo starting at noon.
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Tacombi
Tacombi is doing more than serving quality Mexican eats this Cinco de Mayo. Their UES restaurant at 202 East 70th Street, near Third Avenue, will participate in the taqueria chain’s annual Cinco de Mayo fundraiser.
All proceeds from Friday’s sales will be donated to the Tacombi Foundation, which fights food insecurity by preparing and distributing meals to those experiencing hunger. This year’s goal is to collect enough money to donate 140,000 meals.
Tacmobi’s menu includes flavorful tacos, burritos, quesadillas and traditional Mexican appetizers. Wash those down with a Michelada, a spicy Mexican beer and tomato juice cocktail.
Meller’s Sports Hub & Grill
The lively essence of a Mexican fiesta typically isn’t found in your average sports bar. Still, it will be at Meller’s Sports Hub & Grill, located at 1702 Second Avenue, near the corner of East 88th Street, which hosts a dual celebration Friday to commemorate its first anniversary and Cinco de Mayo.
Margaritas, ‘mystery beer,’ and chips and salsa will all be available for five bucks. Dance to some of their DJ’s hottest playlists between sips from 7:00 pm and 2:00 am.
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Buena Onda
For all things mezcal and music this Cinco de Mayo, head to Buena Onda at 1446 First Avenue, between East 75th and 76th Streets. Live music will serenade you late into the night as you feast on warm corn tortilla enchiladas and gorditas from 10:00 pm to 1:00 am.
Going to a mezcaleria without trying the mezcal, a type of Mexican liquor made from the agave plant is like a pencil with no tip — pointless. Buena Onda has an extensive drink selection with several options for the smoky spirit. Margs and mezcal-less cocktails are also available.
