The Best Food Deals To Celebrate Cinco De Mayo

Cinco de Mayo is just around the corner, and whether you're in it for the celebration of Mexican culture, the tacos and margaritas, or better yet, both, there's no denying that it's a great excuse to celebrate. Scoring some thrifty food deals and appreciating the day's cultural significance can make it even more enjoyable.

Cinco de Mayo commemorates the 1862 battle of Puebla, where Mexican troops triumphed over French forces. In Puebla, Mexico, it is still celebrated today, but not as widely throughout the rest of Mexico. The holiday came to the United States by way of Mexican-Americans as an occasion to celebrate national pride. Since its American adoption, the holiday has morphed into a broader celebration of Mexican culture, often stripped of its historical context in favor of general revelry with plenty of eating and drinking.

Cinco de Mayo falls on a Sunday this year, creating opportunities for festive brunches, leisurely lunches, and dinner feasts. No matter how you're celebrating the day, we've got the scoop on where to find the best food deals around.

If you're looking for a quick and affordable entree on May 5th, Moe's Southwest Grill has you covered. Those signed up for the Moe's Rewards program can snag a hearty burrito or bowl for an apropos $5.55. By the way, the chain's rewards program is free and the sign-up process only takes a few minutes. To top things off (literally) Moe's is also offering free t-shirts to the first 30 guests at any location on Cinco de Mayo.

While Kona Grill is popular for its sushi, modern American fare, and happy hours, it also has some great Cinco de Mayo deals. Whether you like them frozen or on the rocks, the chain is offering their heavenly margaritas for $5. If you need something to nibble on (other than the lime in your margarita), you can also order fish or shrimp tacos for $5 each. This combination is a quintessential Cinco de Mayo option that's sure to satisfy.

On Cinco de Mayo, you'll find all of the imaginative pizza dishes you'd expect at California Pizza Kitchen, along with a variety of drink and appetizer options. Happy Hour lasts all day on May 5th and features $7 drinks like Palomas and margaritas. For those feeling snacky, $5 appetizers like Mexican street corn and white corn guacamole are available — you can even get both and bring some home for leftovers, because yes, there are ways to keep your guac from browning. If you're in the mood for pizza, that's also an option with a $9 beer and pizza combo, highlighting zesty options like a green chili enchilada pizza and a spicy chipotle chili pizza.

Although it's known for its chic modern steakhouse vibes, STK is going all out with luxurious but affordable Cinco de Mayo menu options. Those craving tacos can get their fix with a Wagyu beef or tuna tartare taco for just $5. If you're looking to let your hair down a bit more, you can pair your tacos with $5 shot of premium tequila or go all-out with a shot of Cincoro añejo tequila (which is different from reposado) for a cool $25.

With locations in 17 states and a fun, laid-back atmosphere, Chuy's Tex-Mex is a fantastic place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Along with scratch-made Austin favorites, you can also score special deals for the holiday. Freshly made house margaritas in lime, strawberry, and swirl varieties are just $6 and can be doctored up with a $1 tequila floater, which may even include your favorite tequila brand. If you're a bit thirstier, you can opt for a grande margarita for $10. Even better, chips and festive dips like queso are $5.

El Pollo Loco is getting on the Cinco de Mayo action as well, with a number of deals. From April 29 until the big day, folks can treat their friend or family member to a $50 gift card and get a bonus $10 back for themselves. And the fire-grilled chicken chain is giving folks every reason to become a Loco Rewards member, with buy some, get some deals. 

On 5/3 if you buy a Carnitas Stuffed Quesadilla, you get one free, on 5/4 if you buy a 2-Carnitas Taco Combo, you get a pair of bonus Carnitas Tacos, and on Cinco de Mayo, it's free delivery all day, plus two free Shredded Chicken Crunchy Tacos if you order at least $10 via the El Pollo Loco app!