6 Top Mexican Restaurants in the US to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is widely recognized across the United States as a day to celebrate Mexican culture, particularly through food. Whether you’re looking for modern interpretations or time-honored dishes, these Mexican restaurants represent some of the best places to experience high-quality Mexican food. Spanning coast to coast, each of these restaurants brings regional authenticity, culinary expertise, and cultural pride to the table.​

1. Cosme – New York, NY

Cosme is a contemporary Mexican restaurant located in the Flatiron District of New York City. Founded by chef Enrique Olvera, the restaurant blends Mexican culinary techniques with locally sourced ingredients from the Northeast.​

Key features:

• Popular dishes include duck carnitas and corn husk meringue
• Clean, modern interior suited for fine dining
• Known for combining tradition with modern presentation​

As one of the most highly rated Mexican restaurants in New York, Cosme is an excellent choice for those seeking an elevated Cinco de Mayo dinner that reflects both innovation and authenticity in Mexican food.​

2. Guelaguetza – Los Angeles, CA

Located in Los Angeles, Guelaguetza has built its reputation around Oaxacan cuisine. This family-run restaurant serves traditional dishes from southern Mexico in a lively, welcoming setting.​

Key features:

• Known for mole negro, tlayudas, and mezcal offerings
• Hosts live music and cultural events
• Honored as one of “America’s Classics” by the James Beard Foundation​

Guelaguetza is one of the most respected Mexican restaurants in the country. It provides a true taste of Oaxacan Mexican food, ideal for sharing with friends and family during Cinco de Mayo.​

3. Frontera Grill – Chicago, IL

Frontera Grill in Chicago, created by chef Rick Bayless, has been a leader in bringing regional Mexican food to American diners since 1987. It combines seasonal Midwest ingredients with recipes from across Mexico.​

Key features:

• Highlights include seafood ceviches, pork mole, and house-made tortillas
• Strong emphasis on sustainability and partnerships with local farms
• Extensive tequila and mezcal bar​

Frontera Grill remains one of the most influential Mexican restaurants in the Midwest. It offers a thoughtful, well-executed approach to celebrating Cinco de Mayo with regional specialities.​

4. La Condesa – Austin, TX

Located in downtown Austin, La Condesa brings a modern, artistic take on classic Mexican dishes. The restaurant is known for its creative food, urban design, and wide-ranging mezcal selection.​

Key features:

• Offers tacos al pastor, esquites, and house salsas
• Features one of the most comprehensive mezcal and tequila menus in Texas
• Interior highlights Latin American design and contemporary decor​

La Condesa is a solid choice for those looking to experience high-end Mexican food in a casual yet sophisticated space. It is a popular Cinco de Mayo destination in Austin.

5. Colibri Mexican Bistro – San Francisco, CA

Colibri Mexican Bistro focuses on the flavors of Central Mexico and serves traditional dishes in a quiet, inviting setting within San Francisco’s Presidio.​

Key features:

• Menu items include carnitas, chile en nogada, and grilled cactus salad
• Handmade tortillas and family-style portions
• Warm, rustic design suited for group dining​

As one of San Francisco’s best Mexican restaurants, Colibri is a suitable place to enjoy a meal with friends and family while recognizing the heritage and variety of Mexican food.​

6. Mi Tierra Café y Panadería – San Antonio, TX

Mi Tierra Café y Panadería is a historic Mexican restaurant in San Antonio that has been operating since 1941. It offers a broad Tex-Mex menu along with pastries and pan dulce made in-house.​

Key features:

• Open 24 hours and located in Market Square
• Features mariachi music and festive year-round decorations
• Offers tamales, enchiladas, menudo, and more​

Mi Tierra remains one of the most recognized places for Mexican food in Texas. It is especially popular on Cinco de Mayo for its accessible menu, live music, and welcoming environment.​

Cinco de Mayo offers an opportunity to recognize the depth and variety of Mexican cuisine. These seven Mexican restaurants provide both traditional and contemporary options, ranging from Oaxacan specialties to Central Mexican dishes and Tex-Mex staples. Whether you’re dining out with friends or enjoying a family meal, each of these venues delivers quality Mexican food and a meaningful experience tied to heritage and community.