Five Dope Cinco de Mayo Spots in the District
Angel Elliott
Happy Cinco de Mayo folks! Unfortunately, this historically drunken holiday falls on a Monday this year, and those of us who have to clock in the next day can't turn up as much as we'd like. But no fear! A margarita or two, or three, never hurt nobody! I usually don't do posts that are so hyper-local, but since I live in the lovely DMV and I love it, I decided to help my local folks out with a list of the best Cinco de Mayo spots. Enjoy!
Bandolero DC
3241 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007
(202) 625-4488
As soon as you walk into Bandolero, you notice the dark design, a 5,000 square foot space reflecting a Day of the Dead motif. A D.C. hotspot that opened in May 2012, you'll find Chocolate City's socialites chowing down on authentic Mexican tapas. My fav? The mahi mahi and charred aspargus tacos. For desert, enjoy some mexican chocolate pudding. Get a couple extra miles in at the gym though.
Lauriol Plaza
1835 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 387-0035
This D.C. mainstay, located between Adams Morgan and Dupont Circle is a go-to for folks looking for huge margaritas, and simple Latin American faire. I love to go to Lauriol on a warm day and sit outside. It's a great place to gather with girlfriends/ My favs? The shrimp fajitas and of course, a pitcher of swirl margarita. Yum.
Rosa Mexicano
575 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
(202) 783-5522
If you live in D.C., you've probably been to the Rosa Mexicano across from the Verizon Center. If you haven't, what are you waiting for? This brightly designed restaurant has some of the best guacamole in town (they make and customize it right at your table,) and delicious pomegranate margaritas... Mouth watering a little thinking about it!
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana
401 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
(202) 628-1005
Oyamel is tequila heaven. With a vast array of tequilas and margaritas, this restaurant is perfect for anyone looking for a fun Cinco time. The famed chef Jose Andres who has a cult following is responsible for Oyamel's delicious dishes like tuna ceviche, Tamal Verde and the heavenly flan. Try the former and of course, any drink on the tequila menu.
El Centro D.F.
1819 14th Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20009
(202) 328-3131
Authentic Mexican comfort food and fine tequilas are the draw of this 14th street restaurant. El Centro's dark, sexy decor and delicious drinks bring me back to this restaurant time after time. I recommend trying the Maldita margarita, and shrimp tacos. Yum. Did I mention there's an underground Tequileria and hot open-air rooftop with two bars? Love it up there. That's where you'll find my girls and I tomorrow, don't be a creep, say hi!
- Angel