Celebrate in Style at These Stunning Locations
The weekend is coming a little early this time of year, thanks to celebrating Cinco De Mayo in Orange County. Margaritas, Maracas, and mas tacos is what’s in store for this holiday weekend. If you happen to own a sombrero, it would be ok to take it out of the closet and wear it to dinner this evening. Mustaches are definitely encouraged, and will be thoughtfully admired. Feeling a little more low-key? Relax as you dine in style with a little spice to your cuisine, rather than your wardrobe. Enjoy breath-taking views from Javier’s, live music at Red O Restaurant, gourmet tacos from Sol Cocina, tradition at Avila’s El Ranchito, and more. With the list of options being this extensive, we welcome the thought of indulging in the entirety of the weekend. Ole!
So, what are we celebrating? You’re down for tacos, but you might need a quick history lesson before you attend the battlefield of mass taco and margarita consumption. Try not to confuse this holiday with Mexican Independence Day — because it’s not that holiday. On the fifth day of May, in 1862, the Mexican Army took victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla. There are two main reasons why this battle reigns such great significance in their history; Mexico defeated the French army who had twice as much man power and was significantly more equipped to take the win, and, since then, European military force has not tried to invade the Americas. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
Experience the freshness of authentic Mexican cuisine in the perfect atmosphere for this holiday. Soak up the spectacular views of the Pacific ocean as you sip on Margaritas while the sun sets. Order the Callitos Mazatlan to get the fiesta started. This dish is made with fresh, pan seared, wild scallops that are topped with a creamy chipotle sauce, and served with rice, beans and avocado. And since this is a party, enjoy with a pitcher of Javier’s Margarita, made with a blend of Patron Reposado Tequila, Grand Marnier, Triple Sec and sweet & sour. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
Red O Restaurant By Rick Bayless
Located in Fashion Island, Red O Restaurant offers not only authentic Mexican cuisine, but also lighter California-style dishes. You may recognize this multi James Beard award-winning Celebrity Chef Rick Bayless from his rich history of accolades, but one bite of his cuisine from Red O and that will be the only reference you’ll need. On Cinco de Mayo, Red O will be hosting a fiesta in their outdoor pavilion, featuring live music and food & drink specials. This event is free and will be going on all night. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
Taste the best of the Baja peninsula through this upscale Mexican dining experience. If you’re in the mood for gourmet tacos, Executive Chef Deborah Schneider is the person that you want in the kitchen. For the holiday, savor grande size Casa Noble Blanco Margaritas as you enjoy reggae sounds from James Ide at this fiesta. Delight in the fact that Snifter of Casa Noble and Modelo will be on draft for only ten dollars! By the end of this party you’ll be rocking out with the Slime Kings. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
If you’ve grown up in Orange County, then it’s not hard to believe that this restaurant is a 40-year old tradition. The whole Avila family has been involved in the process of becoming the most well-known and highly successful groups of Mexican restaurants in OC. If you’re looking for a truly authentic experience for Cinco de Mayo, then this is the place to be. They will be offering specials all week-long, including free menudo on Friday. If you check in on Facebook or tag them on Instagram when you visit, you receive a festive prize. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
If you enjoy dining in the open air, then La Vida Cantina might have just what you are looking for! The outdoor area features an outdoor bar with fire pits and places you right in the middle of all the action at Triangle Square. The fiesta boasts, all day specials, tequila and beer feature times, live music, a DJ and a taco man. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
Don’t come here looking for traditional Mexican food, or those bone marrow quesadillas you used to order from their taco truck. Instead, expect to be impressed with the techniques and influence of a Michelin-Starred chef, Carlos Salgado. Taste the tradition that tells a rich history of being transplanted into Southern California’s community. If you listen closely, you can almost hear the conversation between multiple generations in the recipes. At Taco Maria, they describe it as “Chicano Cuisine,” a mezcla of Mexican and American cultures. Come here to enjoy a cerebral experience for Cinco de Mayo. Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
Let this holiday be a special occasion as you dine with ocean views on their outdoor patio at Las Brisas. This year, they are featuring their new Tapas and Tacos menu on the patio and in the bar from 3 p.m. – close for Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy items like their Seared Ahi Tuna tacos, Filet Mignon tacos, or Camarónes a la Diabla. Pair your dish with the Ultimate Margarita, made with herradura silver, patron citronge and agave nectar. Salad! Cinco De Mayo in Orange County
