Cinco de Mayo in Bethesda 2016

Today is Cinco de Mayo, and there are quite a few places to celebrate in Bethesda.

Guapos

Longtime readers know that Guapos always goes all-out for the biggest Mexican restaurant holiday of the year, and 2016 is no exception. Their nachos were voted among America's ten best by the Wall Street Journal in 2006. Enjoy those and several chef and bar specials today, as well as giveaways and prizes. They will also have a tiki bar. They don't mention it this year, but in past years they've also had a live mariachi band.

8130 Wisconsin Avenue

301-656-0888  

Uncle Julio's

Uncle Julio's is the Mexican destination at Bethesda Row. Once again, they have not advertised any specific specials for Cinco de Mayo, but I can tell you they do have a new, must-try Chocolate Pinata dessert. A trip to Uncle Julio's is not complete without ordering their famous Swirl frozen margarita.

4870 Bethesda Avenue

301-656-2181

Tia Queta

For those seeking the authentic, it doesn't get more authentic than a restaurant whose owners are actually Mexican. Tía Queta is tucked away on Del Ray Avenue, next to the Gallery Bethesda apartment tower. They've added a new soft taco menu, and will have food and drink specials all day on Cinco de Mayo.

4839 Del Ray Avenue 

301-654-4443

California Tortilla

The Mexican fast casual chain got its start in downtown Bethesda. Any purchase today will get you a coupon for a free taco, which you can redeem between May 6 and May 13.

4871 Cordell Avenue

Paladar

In North Bethesda's Pike District, Paladar will be offering $3 Dos Equis drafts, $4 Margaritas and $5 Palomas all day long.

11333 Woodglen Drive

(301) 816-1100

Gringos & Mariachis

Gringos and Mariachis is earning a regional reputation as the destination for high-end Mexican cuisine and adult beverages. Tacos + high quality tequila and whiskey = a great Cinco de Mayo in Bethesda.

4928 Cordell Avenue

240-800-4266

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Helpful hint:

Don't be "that guy" who raises a toast to Mexican Independence Day today - Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates Mexico's victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. Mexican Independence Day is September 16.