Strap on your sombreros and serapes!
May has arrived and everyone's favorite tequila-loaded holiday is just around the corner!
Observed to commemorate the Mexican Army's unlikely victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla, Cinco de Mayo is a colorful and festive day full of music, dancing, food and drinks.
As one of the most culturally rich cities in the world, New York City has no shortage of ways to celebrate in proper festive fashion.
Here are our top pics of places that know how to throw a serious fiesta.
1. Cantina Rooftop (605 West 48th Street)
If you're looking to enjoy the sunny May weather while you celebrate, head on over to this scenic spot overlooking Midtown West, Cantina Rooftop. The rooftop restaurant and lounge are offering a special selection of ceviches, guacamoles and tacos, in addition to sizzling signature house dishes.
When it comes to cocktails, take a sip on their Sangre de Nopal, with Tequila Blanco, prickly pear, St. Germain Elderflower, citrus and agave nectar, or their fruity blast of a drink Pero Woah!, which uses Bacardi Superior Rum, passion fruit, coconut and pineapple.
2. Camacho's (118 East 15th Street)
Down by Union Square sits a new Mexican restaurant where they focus on two things: tacos and tequila. From their whimsical wooden decor, including a few swinging seats at tables by the windows, to their impressive food menu, there's much more to Camacho's than just traditional fare.
This Friday, the eatery will serve up free shots every hour and give away "cinco swag" like sombreros, mustaches and beads to get everyone in the mood for a fiesta. The taqueria and tequila bar also serves complimentary shots every night at approximately 11 p.m. when the "Tequila" song plays. Olé!
3. Circle Line - Pier 83 (42nd Street & West Side Highway)
Who's up for a booze cruise? Circle Line is launching a Cinco de Mayo Boat Party on Friday at 7 p.m. Grab some amigos and head over to the water this year for a festively unique way to celebrate the holiday, complete with free apps like Grilled Margarita Chicken Skewers and Mini Beef Empanadas.
The party begins dockside before the 2-hour cruise sets sail, giving you sweeping views of NYC architectural treasures like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and One World Trade while a live DJ keeps the party music rocking. We'll definitely drink to that!
Use the code spoiled45 to save 45% on your tickets! Grab them here before they all sail away!
4. Gabriela's Restaurant & Tequila Bar (688 Columbus Avenue)
Perhaps one of NYC's best kept dining secrets, Gabriela's brings both flair and flavor to the Upper West Side. And they're going all out for Cinco de Mayo! All this weekend there will be drink and shot specials, tequila and beer company giveaways, and lots of Cinco de Mayo "Shwag."
Mariachi Bustamante will also be on hand keeping music going and spirits high. Have him serenade you while you try one of their practically perfect frozen margaritas. From the traditional lime or mango to the more special watermelon and "Raindbow" margarita, they'll put you in fiesta mode in no time.
5. Tavo (615 Hudson Street)
A chic Latin-inspired eatery tucked away in the West Village, Tavo is bringing their best cocktail game for this Cinco de Mayo. Mexican native and Head Bartender Diego Livera has created an innovative menu of six specialty cocktails just for the occasion.
Like things a bit spicy? Try the Luchador, laced with tequila, maple and chili. A festive twist on the classic Paloma cocktail, the First, But Not Least pickers up with tequila and homemade grapefruit soda. If you're feeling adventurous, the Selva Negra with mezcal, fernet branca and mole is for you!
6. Mundo (37-06 36th Street - Queens)
If you're out and about in Astoria on Friday, pop into the Paper Factory Hotel's Latin-fusion creation, Mundo. This industrial yet colorfully-themed restaurant is a trip for all of your senses, from the ambiance and menu to their decor and drinks.
Their festive signature margarita, the Pachamama, is perfect for Cinco de Mayo, which is a masterful mix of tequila, fresh lime juice, cucumber extract, poblano pepper and basil leaves. It's finished off with spicy salt rim for a refreshing sip with a bit of bite.
7. Treadwell Park (125 1st Avenue)
If margaritas aren't really your thing but you still want a Cinco de Mayo buzz, check out Treadwell Park. It's a chill place to grab one of 20 rotating craft draught beers, ciders and more than 40 bottled options, in addition to their Reserve List of specialty and rare beers.
You can really party hard with their epic Cinco De Mayo plans too. The massive beer hall is offering up the a Mexican-inspired deal: two house-smoked pulled pork tacos with a 21st Amendment El Sully Lager and a shot of tequila for just $20. Salud, amigos!