Places to Celebrate the Most American of Mexican Days
Cinco de Mayo, or the 5th of May, is a day worth celebrating, but not for what you think. Many folks confuse the holiday with Mexican Independence Day, which occurs on September 16. Cinco de Mayo commemorates the win of the Battle of Pueblo, an unlikely victory by the Mexican army over France during the Franco-Mexican War in 1862. Mexico gained independence more than 40 years before this battle took place. Most places in Mexico don’t even celebrate Cinco de Mayo — banks, schools, and offices remain open. The tradition mostly exists in the U.S., and we’ve gathered a list of some of the best food and fiestas here in the North Sound to celebrate the Mexican culture that influences us.
JALAPEŇOS
Originally from Monterrey, Mexico, founder Jesse Cantu brings authentic Mexican flavors and inspiration to everything in all three Northwest locations. Not only is food part of the experience, but so is celebrating family and life. Join in on the fun on Cinco de Mayo and order a “Big Mama” margarita.
Locations vary, Bellingham
jalapenos-wa.com
CASA QUE PASA
Try the burritos famed food critic Alton Brown referred to as “the size of a small cat.” Go for their famous potato burrito, which is stuffed with, beans, cheese, and charred potato pieces. As Brown himself says, “It doesn’t sound good, but it is.”
1415 Railroad Ave., Bellingham
360.756.8226 | casaquepasarocks.com
NORTHWATER
For a celebratory special, check out the Cinco de Mayo menu. Try the featured exclusive drinks like South of the Border, Sayulita, and El Beso de Virginia, which all pair perfectly with the also-exclusive fish tacos.
4260 Mitchell Way, Bellingham
360.398.6191 | northh2o.com
EL GITANO
El Gitano prides itself on being authentic to old Mexico, boasting attributes both in décor and food. Every year for Cinco de Mayo, it hosts a big party including everything from trivia and games with prizes to a mariachi band. Each year is different, but one thing that remains consistent is that this is my favorite Mexican food around — high accolades from this former Texan.
Locations vary in Bellingham, Mount Vernon, La Conner, Burlington
elgitano.net
COA MEXICAN EATERY
Offering vegetarian, vegan, and glutenfree options, this authentic Mexican restaurant is sure to please the entire family. The name “coa” comes from the tool used to harvest the agave plant for tequila production. This name inspired the 100 percent agave tequila selections the restaurant serves.
102 S. 10th St., Mount Vernon
360.840.1938 | coaeatery.com
MIJITAS MEXICAN KITCHEN
Rarely open on Sundays, an exception had to be made for this Cinco de Mayo. Chef Raul uses fresh ingredients in all his dishes, which are inspired by his childhood in Mexico. Stop by between 4 p.m.–8 p.m. to try the “best mole outside Oaxaca.”
310 A St., Eastsound
360.376.6722 | mijitasorcas.com
TINA’S TACOS
Grab a seat on the patio and celebrate Cinco with tacos inspired by “mom’s” Spanish home cooking flavor. If you’re more the party-at-home type, Tina’s offers take-out orders. If you’re throwing a big Cinco de Mayo fiesta, they’re proud to offer catering for gatherings of any size.
485 Elsworth Ave., Friday Harbor
360.842.3228 | tinas-tacos.com
Other Great Cinco Spots
Lilia’s Mexican Cuisine
190 E. Bakerview Rd., Bellingham
360.527.3181
California Tacos & Fresh Juices
4252 Cordata Pkwy., Bellingham
360.312.4340
Chihuahua Family Mexican Restaurant
5694 3rd Ave., Ferndale
360.384.5820
Taqueria La Bamba
2222 Riverside Dr., Mount Vernon
360.424.0824
Mariposa
14003 Gilmore Ave., Bow
360.820.9912
Mi Casita Mexican Restaurant
680 Spring St., Friday Harbor
360.378.6103
Chimayo En El Dia
112 Haven Rd., Eastsound
360.376.6337
For more like this, check out this month’s Mixing Tin for Northwater’s El Beso de Virginia here.
