So you’re more pumped about Cinco de Mayo than your BFF's b-day. There's no shame in that—this annual fiesta is synonymous with spring, and who isn’t psyched about that? This year, check out some new bars while you celebrate all things Mexican—the bartenders might not know your name yet, but that's nothing a few cervezas and a pitcher of margarita won't fix. Por favor—leave the giant sombreros for the amateurs.
Barrio
210 7th Ave. (@ 3rd St.)
Park Slope 718.965.4000
Hey, alkie, this holiday isn’t all about drinking, and to prove it brand new Barrio is featuring a Mexican harp player (yes, there is a such thing as a Mexican harp) at their celebration, along with a range of Mexican folklore music. But not to be ones to buck tradition, you’ll find watermelon-mint, tamarind-pineapple, and green apple-agave margaritas at the bar for a cool $8. Sangria, Mexican beers, and wine from Spain and South America round out the liquid offerings.
Islero
247 East 50th St. (2nd & 3rd.)
Midtown 212.752.1414
Tapas-focused Islero is turning the spotlight on the bar. In honor of 5/5, they are serving $5 margaritas all night. Tequila tastings are also on tap with Corralejo Tequila hosting the party and celebrating with giveaways all night. Drinking and presents—sounds like a fiesta to us. Since you gotta eat, try some tequila-infused ceviche. Best not to mix, remember?
Los Dados
73 Gansevoort St. (@ Washington St.) Meatpacking District 646.810.7290
Sue Torres's MPD resto serves Mexican street-inspired food worth dressing up for. On Monday, they’re offering free churros with dulce de leche and chocolate-mulato dipping sauces with each dinner purchase. Paired with their crafty cocktails from the bar, you’ll be gettin' down in no time. Cucumber agave margaritas spiced with chiles and blueberry margaritas are just a couple of the drinks being consumed at the communal table center stage, which will no doubt be the place to be seen on Cinco de Mayo.
La Zarza 166 1st Ave. 10th & 11th Sts.
East Village 212.477.1111
Argentinean and Spanish cuisine and culture are as blended up here, just like the house-made guava pineapple sangria and cucumber, tequila, and jalapeno cocktails. The sexy, brooding atmosphere here is not for your usual buck wild celebration, so don't expect Jello shots. Instead, hit this spot up for a celebration of the refined kind.
Wildwood 225 Park Ave. South (@ 18th St.)
Gramercy 212-533-2500
No, they’re not Mexican, but chef “Big Lou” Elrose is giving gringos a good name at Wildwood for the big day. The pit will be turning out special BBQ ribs made with a house-made Mexican rub and served with a Mexican BBQ sauce. The rub has chilies of course, so leave your sissy pants at home—there will be enough liquor at the 100—foot bar to make the pain go away.
~ Fabiana Santana
Meatpacking District 646.810.7290
166 1st Ave. 10th & 11th Sts.
225 Park Ave. South (@ 18th St.)
