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Bars for Cinco de Mayo

By Perrie Samotin | Special to amNewYork

May 5, 2006

Livin La Vida-Rita drink. (Photo by Handout / May 4, 2006)

In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo marks the victory of the tiny Mexican Army over the massive French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862.

But here in the states, a toast to victory has become an occasion to knock back cervezas and shots of Patron, all the while chowing down on guacamole and fending off free sombreros. Here are some bars for all you margarita lovers.

Centrico
Acclaimed Tribeca eatery Centrico serves up an inspiring array of tequila cocktails. Check out the wraparound outdoor terrace, now open for dining, and sip a Chicuta made with Frida Kahlo reposado, fresh lime juice, elderflower cordial, orange zest and soda. Chef Aaron Sanchez's special dishes are served through Sunday.

211 West Broadway
212-431-0700

S.O.B.'s
Sounds of Brazil offers salsa groove tonight with Jose Conde and Ola Fresca. Happy hour starts at 5 p.m. and free salsa lessons at 7 p.m. Shows start at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. The authentic Brazilian cuisine is worthy, but the main raison d'etre is to shake it down.
204 Varick St.
212-243-4940

Dos Caminos
It's the New York eatery arguably responsible for making regional Mexican fare chic, so if any joint in the city is expected to have a blowout, this is it. The festivities kick off today with special menu items like Fresh Maine Lobster Guacamole and specialty drinks like the Cinco de Mayo punch (made with fruit-infused tequila and, of course, their signature margarita). Throughout the weekend, lunch and brunch will feature live Latin music and a chance to win a bunch of cool prizes, including tasting menus and gift cards.
373 Park Ave. S.
212-294-1000

Tavern on First
The spacious outdoor backyard, now open daily, is a huge draw at this Upper East Side tavern. Tonight expect seven TVs, an eclectic crowd and the stylings of DJ Mike at 9 p.m. (points if you know who that is). Swing by at 6 p.m. for the first free BBQ of the season as well $3 regular margaritas and $4 frozen ones.
1678 First Ave.
212-828-7820

O'Neill's
If a full-on fiesta isn't really your thing, get yourself over to this dead-on incarnation of a traditional Irish pub and immediately order the Cinco de Mayo Burger packed with pepper jack cheese, guacamole and salsa, served with a pint of Dos Equis lager. This May, the burger is part of O'Neill's "Burger of the Month" program, which pairs a monthly themed burger with a pint of relevant beer for $10.