Here’s your annual reminder that Cinco De Mayo is not Mexico’s Independence Day (which is celebrated on September 16), nor is it a universally recognized holiday in Mexico. It’s a holiday that commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over the French army in the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, and it’s become a way for people to celebrate and honor their heritage.
The victory is usually celebrated in the state of Puebla, but there’s usually not much fanfare throughout the rest of Mexico for the holiday. In the U.S., Cinco De Mayo has evolved into a celebration of Mexican culture and heritage and usually takes the form of parades, festivals, and eating traditional Mexican food. Here are some celebrations and special menu items to celebrate in Dallas.
(New to the area? Check out our guide for traditional Mexican food in Dallas.)
Menu Specials and Celebrations
Federales
On Friday, Cinco De Mayo specials include two tacos and a margarita for $15. Happy hour on Friday is extended from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. and will feature specials on guacamole, queso, taquitos, and more. 2820 Commerce St.
Miriam Cocina Latina
Live mariachi music from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. and $5 taco specials, including chicken al carbon, pork belly, and shrimp pacífico. Reservations recommended. 2015 Woodall Rodgers Fwy.
Molino Olōyō pop-up at Las Almas Rotas Mezcaleria
Starting at 5 p.m., Cinco De Mayo celebrations will take place on the patio of Las Almas Rota Mezcaleria with offerings like camarones zarandeados (grilled red royal shrimp with lime and salsa fresca) and bluefin tuna aguachile. Reservations not required. 3615 Parry Ave.
Oak Cliff Cultural Center
On Saturday, the city’s most authentic Cinco De Mayo party will be in Oak Cliff. The Dallas Cinco de Mayo 2023 celebration will kick off at 9:45 a.m. with a parade and will include music, awards, and food.
Taqueria La Ventana
The downtown Dallas location of Taqueria La Ventana will host a Cinco De Mayo block party from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. Friday. The celebration will include live music, street tacos, and drink specials. Tickets are $10. 1611 McKinney Ave.
Te Deseo
Drink specials include $8 margaritas, $5 paleta shots, beer specials, and a build-your-own margarita bar. A special lunch menu includes arrachera fajitas, snapper, churros, and more. The lunch menu will be available from noon to 3 p.m. Starting at 3 p.m., the dinner menu will be available along with the drink menu. Available May 5. Reservations recommended. 2700 Olive St.
Trompo
On Friday, Trompo will offer special menu items and margaritas for Cinco De Mayo. Owner Luis Olvera says a grill will fire up out back around 5 p.m., and he plans to make surf ‘n turf carne asada tacos, carne asada fries, and more. 337 Jefferson Blvd.
Mexican Restaurants and Taquerias We Love
One of the best ways to celebrate Cinco De Mayo respectfully and authentically is to support local Mexican-owned businesses. Here’s a list of our favorites in Dallas.
Ayahuasca Cantina
334 W. Jefferson Blvd.
Cabritos Los Cavazos
10240 N. Walton Walker Blvd.
Del Sur Tacos
720 E. Jefferson Blvd.
El Come Taco
2513 N Fitzhugh Ave.
José
4931 W. Lovers Ln.
Maskaras Mexican Grill
2423 W. Kiest Blvd.
Milagro Tacos Cantina
440 Singleton Blvd., Ste. 100.
Purépecha Room by Revolver Taco Lounge
2701 Main St.
Resident Taqueria
9661 Audelia Rd., Ste. 112.
Revolver Gastro Cantina
2646 Elm St.
Taco y Vino
213 W. Eighth St.
Taqueria El Si Hay
601 W. Davis St.
Author
