Cinco de Mayo commemorates Mexico's unlikely victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. That's the history lesson. Now here's the part you actually came for: where to eat, drink, and celebrate this weekend without driving all the way into Ybor City.
Between a free waterfront taco festival, Latin music and sangria on a farm, and some of the best Mexican food in South Hillsborough County, East of Tampa has everything you need. Here's the full playbook.
Own a restaurant or bar we didn't include? Email us at [email protected] and we'll consider adding you to the list.
Start the Weekend Right
Sangria Night at Keel Farms | 5202 Thonotosassa Rd | Plant City | Friday, May 1 | 5pm to 10pm
The best way to kick off Cinco de Mayo weekend is a short drive to Plant City. Keel and Curley Winery hosts Sangria Night every first Friday of the month and May 1 lines up perfectly. Live Latin music, dancing under the lights, and handcrafted sangria flights on the farm. Free admission, free parking, no reservations needed. Just show up ready to celebrate.
Tampa Riverfest: TacoFest | Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park | Tampa | Saturday, May 2 | 11am to 8pm
Worth the short drive into Tampa. The 10th Annual Tampa Riverfest is free along the full Riverwalk and this year TacoFest is getting a new format as a Food Truck Rally with four local trucks each serving their own take on tacos. Wristbands for three tacos run $20 and five tacos will cost you $25. The broader festival also includes live music, a Wiener Dog Derby, a Lantern Parade, a hot air balloon glow, and a new Kid Zone. Free admission for all of it.
Where to Eat
Gran Agave | Riverview
Riverview's most beloved Mexican restaurant and the one locals keep coming back to. Family-owned, authentic, and known for monster margaritas and fresh chips and guacamole that hit the table before you even have to ask. If you only go to one Mexican restaurant this Cinco de Mayo, make it this one.
Lorita's Fresh Mexican Food | Brandon
An award-winning Mexican food cafe consistently ranked at the top of Brandon's best lists. Fresh birria tacos, carne asada burritos, and a warm welcoming atmosphere that feels nothing like a chain. The kind of place locals fiercely defend when someone suggests going somewhere else.
Azteca D'Oro Mexican Restaurant | Brandon
Handcrafted margaritas, sizzling fajitas, molcajetes, and a full menu made fresh every day right in Brandon Town Center. Big portions, a great bar, and a lively atmosphere that earns its reputation every weekend. A go-to for groups.
Nueva Cantina | Brandon
Modern vibes, authentic flavors, and a margarita menu built for celebrating. Tacos, bowlritos, and shareable plates make it the right call when you're out with the whole crew and everyone can't agree on what they want.
Los Chapos Tacos | Brandon
Bold authentic flavors and a menu built for people who take their tacos seriously. From street tacos to the original Florida Birria taco, this is the move if tacos are the priority this Cinco de Mayo.
Sabor A Mexico | Brandon
A family-owned neighborhood favorite serving traditional Mexican dishes from time-honored recipes. Fresh ingredients, signature sauces, and the kind of authentic flavors that feel like a trip home.
Fajitas Mexican Grille | Brandon
The name says everything. If you want the full sizzling platter experience for Cinco de Mayo, this is the call. Fun atmosphere, solid drinks, and portions that mean business.
Where to Drink
Bullfrog Creek Brewing Co. | Valrico
The veteran-owned Valrico brewery is the perfect Cinco de Mayo stop if you want award-winning craft beer without the chaos. Over 380 beers brewed since 2018, a full kitchen, and a patio that makes any night feel like a great call. Happy hour runs Monday through Friday from 2 to 5pm.
Voodoo Brewing Co. | Valrico
Craft beer meets a scratch kitchen at this Valrico brewpub. Full bar, craft cocktails, and a unique menu that goes well beyond typical bar food. A great option when your group wants something a little different.
Leaven Brewing | Riverview
A local Riverview favorite with a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere and a loyal following. The kind of spot where you can settle in, grab a cold one, and actually hear the person across the table from you.
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