In Mexico, Cinco de Mayo celebrates the Mexican army’s tough victory against the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5th, 1862.
On Cape Cod, Cinco de Mayo is more of placeholder for “drink and eat vaguely cultural food.”
So if you’d like a taste for something a little bit more legitimately Mexican – or, conversely, if you prefer the cocktail route – we have a few suggestions to help you honor this important historical event.
Casa Vallarta – 70 Davis Straits, Falmouth
Let’s start off with a place for the whole family – Casa Vallarta. You’ll read a lot of Yelp reviews about Mexican restaurants, claiming this or that one has “real” Mexican food. We’re not quite sure what that means, but Casa Vallarta features dishes based on actual fare from their hometowns. They do, of course, have cocktails, crafted by peppy bartenders who somehow are able to sling the shakers across the room to each other while making sure that margarita is well-shaken. But this place focuses on providing family portions you’ll be excited to take home after the main course.
Mi Pueblo – 459 Main Street, Hyannis
Sometimes, burritos come to you falling apart. Sometimes, they’re overstuffed, don’t have enough guacamole or just isn’t “exactitud.” Not at Mi Pueblo. Their burritos are food art incarnate: perfectly balanced portions of rice to protein, veggies to guac. Though not a place for cocktails, Mi Pueblo focuses more on the quality of its fare, and Yelp reviewers seem to agree. At the time this was written, ALL of its reviewers gave it 5 stars.
Guapos Tortilla Shack – Staples Plaza, Orleans
With burritos as long as your forearm and likely wider, you won’t go home hungry from Guapos. And at this joint, quality matches quantity: zesty sauces accommodate creative incarnations of burritos, tacos and quesadillas, served with some of the best homemade chips and salsa around.
Sam Diegos – 950 Iyannough Road, Hyannis and 51 Main Street, Plymouth
This popular Cape Cod, Mexican restaurant has been serving up grub since 1982. The extensive menu is sure to offer something for everyone including BBQ and jalapeno stuffed pretzels. They also offer take out in case you’d rather spend Cinco de Mayo at home.
Burrito Loco – 105 MA-149, Marstons Mills
Another of the Cape’s hidden gems, Burrito Loco’s food is something foodies would and do refer to as “most legitimate.” Don’t miss their take on dishes you already love, but don’t resist the urge to try items which may not be as familiar. Also, they totally understand that sauces are a critical element to get right. More mole, please.
About Rebecca Romo
