Before we dive into the drinks, it’s important to remember that Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico’s victory against France in the 1862 Battle of Puebla. While the holiday’s significance has dwindled in Mexico over the years, it has gained substantial recognition in the US as a way for Mexican-Americans to celebrate their cultural heritage.
This year, we certainly won’t be missing out on margaritas, palomas, or, for that matter, anything else that features tequila. Fortunately, many restaurants have special deals for Cinco de Mayo in Chicago.
Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Chicago
Costera Cocina Tulum
The vibrant bohemian restaurant transports you to the jungle of Tulum, making it the perfect spot for Cinco de Mayo. Enjoy the signature La Casita Margarita for just $10 all day long for Cinco de Mayo in Chicago!
📍Address: 850 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607
🍽️ Make a reservation here
Lirica Restaurant
Lirica is heating up the Cinco de Mayo scene in Chicago. Chef Ricky Amaya is refreshing Lirica’s menu with new themed food and beverage pairings, including Baja Fish Tacos, Carnitas Empanadas, and Steak Nachos. You’ll celebrate Cinco De Mayo with incredible bites and stunning views of Lake Michigan, accompanied by live music from a DJ and a complimentary rose.
📍Address: 900 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
🍽️ Make a reservation here
Mercadito
Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Chicago with a bottomless brunch from Mercadito. There will be a special edition on Monday, which includes endless margaritas, mimosas, amiga sandias, Bloody marys, and Yecates!
📍Address: 108 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
🍽️ Make a reservation here
aliveOne
Enjoy Cinco de Mayo in Chicago with happy hour and free music trivia at aliveOne. On Monday, May 5, the bar will offer a $10 El Jimador Margarita special. A half-price happy hour will also run from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Plus, enjoy free pool all evening, along with free music and trivia from Whaddyaknow! starting at 8 p.m
📍Address: 108 W Kinzie St, Chicago, IL 60654
The Hampton Social
Get summer started and celebrate Cinco de Mayo at the Hampton Social with half off Montauk Margs! From the Skinny Hampton Margarita, to Resort Water, to the Coastal Sunrise, there will be refreshing cocktails all day long on Monday, May 5.
📍Address: Various locations
🍽️ Make a reservation here
Cody’s Public House
To celebrate Cinco de Mayo, Cody’s Public House will host a fiesta on Sunday, May 4, beginning at 11 a.m. The event will feature a Taco Truck, Tequila Fest, Salsa Cook-off, and drink specials. The Los Candiles Taco Truck will arrive at 1 p.m., and at 2 p.m., a tequila sampling will take place, featuring Casamigos, Don Julio, Camarena, 1800, Grand Centenario, Teremana, Patron, Clase Azul, Casa Azul, and Milagro. Shots of each tequila will be available for $6 each.
📍Address: 1658 W Barry Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Easy Bar
Visit Easy Bar on Cinco de Mayo to enjoy a $10 El Jimador Margarita special and half-price happy hour from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. Additional specials available throughout the evening include $4 Montucky Cold Snacks, $5 Espolón Blanco Shots, and $5 Underberg.
📍Address: 1944 W Division St, Chicago, IL 60622
Remedy
Remedy will hosting a “Cinco De Meow” celebration for Cinco de Mayo, featuring a $10 Don Julio “Meowgarita,” and a Cinco De Meow” contest on Instagram where patrons can tag Remedy (@remedy_chicago) in their favorite cat pictures leading up to May 5 for a chance to win a $100 gift card.
📍Address: 1910 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
The Graystone Tavern
In celebration of Cinco de Mayo, The Graystone Tavern in Wrigleyville will serve up a menu of festive specials, including $6 Nacho Fries, $8 Mexican Pizza, and drinks such as a $6 Boozy Baja Blast, $5 Modelo Drafts, and $5 Maestro Dobel shots.
📍Address: 3441 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
The Owl
For Cinco de Mayo in Chicago, The Owl will be having $10 House Margaritas all evening. Kick off the holiday with a half-price happy hour from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. or end your night on the dance floor at one of The Owl’s legendary late-night parties until 4 a.m.
📍Address: 2521 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Toro Chicago
Toro Chicago is enhancing the cocktail experience with a globally inspired menu that adds a bold and refined twist to celebration sipping this Cinco De Mayo in Chicago. Enjoy the Mercado Margarita, Reforma Avenue, and Passion Pisco Sour!
📍Address: 200 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601