We’re days away from Cinco de Mayo, a day that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over France in the Battle of Puebla. May 5 has quickly become a holiday favorite in the U.S. where Americans celebrate the culture and heritage of our neighbors just south of us.
Try celebrating the day at one of these 10 restaurants in San Diego County:
This popular Hillcrest restaurant offers a variety of tacos with a twist, including bacon wrapped shrimp tacos and campechano. If you’re just craving an appetizer, the queso fundido or the ceviche is a must-have.
This popular Gaslamp restaurant is known for its wide selection of Tequila but the tacos are also a must. Try the cochinita or pastor for something truly flavorful and get a plate of nachos to share with friends. We promise you won’t regret it.
A cozy restaurant nestled in University Heights, Cantina Mayaheul is the place to be if you want strong drinks. They have simple tacos like steak, chicken and carnitas served on delicious tortillas.
If you’re looking for real fun and if you happen to have Friday off, head over to Baja Betty’s in Hillcrest. The restaurant offers delicious margaritas, tacos and nachos. Did we mention delicious margaritas?
Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina
Celebrate May 5 in San Diego’s own Old Town. There are a number of Mexican food places to choose from but our pick is Old Town Tequila Factory Restaurant & Cantina. The restaurant has all the favorites like tamales, taquitos and chile rellenos, plus a variety of the finest Tequilas around.
La Especial Norte
La Especial Norte in Encinitas will surely satisfy any Cinco de Mayo party-goer. The restaurant has amazing tacos like potato, carnitas and carne asada, plus a full bar selection.
Casa de Bandini
If you’re looking for a family-friendly environment, Casa de Bandini in Carlsbad is our pick. The restaurant offers all the Mexican food favorites including enchiladas, flautas and tacos. There’s also a gluten-free menu.
Añejo Bar & Grill
Añejo Bar & Grill in Escondido has a variety of delicious eats from fajitas to soups to seafood plates. Don’t forget to try their margaritas or horchatas.
Miguelito’s
For those on the island, Miguelito’s is definitely worth a try. The Coronado restaurant is worth a visit just for its cheese dip. But if you’re really hungry, try the shrimp enchiladas, beef stew or fish tacos. Yum!
Tacos El Gordo
Finally, there’s Tacos El Gordo. The restaurant may have a simple menu and may not have alcohol but the tacos are the best thing to step onto this planet (at least one of the best things!). The Chula Vista favorite offers delectable tacos and delicious salsas.