Cinco de Mayo

Long story short: May 5th is NOT about Mexican Independence (that's September 16th) which occurred 50 years before the Mexican army's 1862 victory over France at the Battle of Puebla. This was during the Franco-Mexican War (1861-1867) which was, surprise, about money and France's desire to create a new empire. It is the Mexican victory in Puebla that has given rise to a fiesta day more celebrated in the U.S. than Mexico, other than in Puebla.

We encourage you to celebrate the spirit of victory and the culture of Mexico with food, drink, and general carousing and happiness.

Kansas City has a large number of people with Mexican heritage here, and there is no shortage of restaurants to fete the day. We recommend three to you especially: Margarita's Boulevard which is celebrating its 30th anniversary of Cinco's there with free tee shirts while they last. Try happy hour menus and the joys of Taco Tuesdays at all five locations. In the spirit of the celebration, try Puebla's famous chili rellenos at Ixtapa's on Barry Road for either lunch or dinner - and there's even a kids' menu. Frida's out south at 121st and Metcalf, offers an especially happy happy hour and then live entertainment in the evening on the 5th. Their amazing chili en nogado is our favorite. And do ask for the secret, special margarita - it's mostly just your choice of a really good tequila, triple sec, and fresh lime juice. Suddenly, you ARE free!