How To Do Cinco de Mayo in North County

WHERE TO GRAB TACOS

PHOTO VIA THE TACO STAND

The Taco Stand | encinitas

Inspired by the taco stands of Tijuana and many adventures along the Baja Peninsula, The Taco Stand is an authentic taco stand experience featuring handmade corn tortillas, grade meats, & the freshest ingredients used to make their guacamole and salsas from scratch daily.

Besides amazing tacos and burritos, they also have a selection of Mexican flavored popsicles, refreshments, imported beer and freshly prepared Rosarito-style churros.

PS: You can even order online in advance to skip the lines!

PHOTO VIA COCINA DEL CARMEN

Cocina Del Carmen – vista

Cocina Del Carmen’s food finds its roots from the beautiful city of Oaxaca, Mexico where their chef, Carmen Colon, was born. Rich culinary traditions are deeply ingrained in the culture of Oaxaca, giving Del Carmen pride in reflecting the deep sense of tradition that permeates the Mexican state in their cuisine.

At Del Carmen, you can taste the wide variety of unique dishes that come from Oaxaca that are so much different from the rest of Mexico such as Tlayudas and the famous Mole sauce.

Getting hungry? Us too. Order online

Order online or stop by & order in for a sitdown experience.

WHERE TO GRAB A MARGARITA

PHOTO VIA TONY’S JACAL

Tony’s Jacal | solana beach

North County favorite Tony’s Jacal was opened by Tony and Catalina Gonzales in 1946, shortly after World War II. Initially opening only on weekends in Tony’s parents’ home, the restaurant quickly gained popularity for its delicious Mexican cuisine, including renowned dishes like chiles rellenos and turkey tacos.

Their legacy lives on through their daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, who continue to uphold the tradition of serving fine Mexican food. The Gonzales family takes pride in their cuisine and the years of dedicated service to their loyal customers.

Looking for a sit-down meal? Stop by early to put your name in. Otherwise, take a seat at the bar and grab a cadillac margarita (or two) and enjoy the atmosphere and old-time charm of the building.

PHOTO VIA LOLA 55

LOLA 55 | la costa

If you haven’t checked out the somewhat-recently-opened Lola 55 in The Beacon La Costa, this weekend may be a good time to stop by.

The second location opened by Tijuana-born and raised owner Frank Vizcarra, Lola offers fantastic, chef-driven tacos for reasonable prices and a cocktail menu to die for. The restaurant also offers a nice patio area as well as a bar, so whether you want to grab some sunshine or lounge inside while you sip your drink, we’ll leave that up to you.

PHOTO VIA CASERO TAQUERIA

Casero Taqueria | carlsbad

From esquite to conchita pibil tacos, Casero Taqueria is the perfect spot to sit down for a Casero Margarita, Cucumber Mezcal Mule, or La Fonda.

Casero also offers mocktails, tequila/mezcal flights, and a decent selection of beers and wines… meaning they’ve got a little something for anybody for the perfect Cinco de Mayo happy hour.

EVENTS AROUND TOWN

PHOTO VIA KEN MARANION / RAINE PHOTOGRAPHY

Immerse yourself in a day filled with vibrant entertainment, lively dancing, delectable food, and a diverse array of vendors at the annual Noth County Cinco de Mayo Festival.

You’ll find traditional music, culinary options, local vendors, and a beer garden. The event is also FREE, giving everybody an opportunity to embrace the rich cultural tapestry of Cinco de Mayo while enjoying a day of fun and excitement with friends and family.

PHOTO VIA OMNI HOTELS

Tapas & Tequila Tour | OMNI | la costa

Join The OMNI La Costa on Cinco de Mayo as they partner with Casamigos Tequila to embark on a spirited cantina crawl through the resort. Each of their four stops promises mouthwatering Mexican-inspired bites and cocktails, as well as Folklórico dancers in celebration of Mexican culture, history and community. Cost is $65 per person. This event kicks off on Bob’s Steak & Chop House’s patio.

You can get your tickets here.

CINCO DE MAYO SPECIALS

PHOTO VIA CASA DE BANDINI

Union | encinitas

Saturday, May 4th
– Dinner & Margarita Specials 5PM – CLOSE

Sunday, May 5th
– All Day Taco & Margarita Specials
– Brunch Specials 9am-3pm
– Dinner Specials 5-CL

Follow UNION here.

Casa de Bandini | la costa

Sunday, May 5th
– Live music
– Mexican street food stand
– Hourly tequila specials

Follow Casa de Bandini here.

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