Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner and San Diego is
already preparing for a week’s worth of fun.
There will be the annual celebrations and activities that we mentioned last year, such as the Poway Cinco de Mayo Trail Run on May 7th, and
the Fiesta Cinco de Mayo in Old Town from May 6th to the 8th. There will
also be plenty of celebrating in some of San Diego’s best Mexican
restaurants. This week we’ve highlighted
our top three picks for where to go and what to eat.
Casa Guadalajara is an award-winning authentic Mexican
restaurant with entrees from different regions in Mexico. The colorful décor and roaming mariachis will
make you feel like you’ve been transported to the vibrant city of Guadalajara
itself. They are known for their
enormous portions (come hungry!) and homemade tortillas. Not only are they generous with their
entrees, visitors will also be treated to their famous never-ending chips and
salsa, so be sure and pace yourself. Due
to its popularity, Casa Gudalajara can get crowded, and we recommend making
reservations for weekend evenings.
Located downtown across from Seaport Village, Puesto at The Headquarters is hosting “Cincoteca Dos,” touted as “Not Your Madre’s Cinco de
Mayo Fiesta.” Taking place in the
restaurant’s outdoor space, Cincoteca is going to be a mini-music festival with
genres ranging from modern mariachi to Mexican dance hits. The fun starts on the 5th at 3:30 PM
and runs until 10:00 PM. There will be
specials on their signature margaritas and beers, and while you’re there you
might as well order one of their famous tacos.
Speaking of their famous food, if you can’t make it for the
party, we highly recommend a visit to try their innovative take on Mexican
fare. We’ve highlighted Puesto before
just based on their aguas frescas, but their tacos might be the real star. Taco Tuesday is such a popular night, waits
can exceed one hour, but the employees will do their best to accommodate you,
even if that means ordering and eating on the patio. It’s hard to pick a favorite taco from their
menu, but you can’t go wrong with the Maine Lobster, Filet Mignon, or Tuna Asada
tacos. The airy bi-level restaurant
serves food that’s as fresh as their décor.
Another trendy and equally delicious restaurant hosting a
party on the 5th is Coasterra and their Cinco de Mayo Fiesta. Enjoy the spectacular views of San Diego Bay
and Downtown, while listening to live music and DJ. Don’t miss the specials on margaritas, Baja
wines, craft Mexican beers, and appetizers. The party gets started at 4:30 PM
and winds down at 11:00 PM.
Coasterra prides itself on modern Mexican dishes and the
contemporary vibe is also reflected in the stunning architecture and design. There are plenty of tasty options on the
menu, but the guacamole (made at your table), Ahi Tuna Tostada, and Enchiladas
de Mariscos (shrimp) can’t be beat. Without
reservations, there can be a long wait during dinner hours, but outdoor and bar
seating is available as first come, first serve and usually you can snag a seat
pretty fast. Be sure and get there for
sunset and watch the sky change color and the buildings slowly light up. The food is great, but the view of the water
and the city will steal the show. We
suggest taking advantage of the $7 valet parking, as parking can be limited in
the evening.
Just stop by any one of these restaurants, whether on Cinco
de Mayo or any other day, and you’ll see why San Diego is famous for its
Mexican cuisine. Book a stay with us at
Mission Bay Vacation Rentals and then start booking reservations at these
incredible eateries. Your stomach will
thank you!
