Cinco de Drink More Beer-O

Across the nation, bartenders are salting the rims of oversize glasses and stocking up on Mexican beer. Today is Cinco de Mayo, America’s opportunity to drown the immigration debate blues in tacos, tequila, and cerveza.

“A lot of people confuse Cinco de Mayo with Mexican independence. We want to teach people the real significance of the celebration,” says Eduardo Durazo of Jaguar Ceviche Spoon Bar and Latam Grill (3067 Grand Ave., Coconut Grove; 305-444-0216 or www.jaguarspot.com). His festivities will celebrate the Mexican victory over the French at the Batalla de Puebla by uniting two neighborhood favorites, Jaguar and Le Bouchon du Grove (3430 Main Hwy.; 305-448-6060). Patrons of Jaguar will be visited by French ambassadors, including Le Bouchon’s owner George-Eric Farge, dressed as Napoleon. Wine samples and petits fours will be served to the accompaniment of an accordion player. At Le Bouchon, a mariachi band will come a-visiting every hour, and guests can enjoy samples of ceviche, swordfish tacos, and blue corn chicken taquitos. Durazo will dress as Pancho Villa.

For a South Beach twist, check out Lime Fresh Mexican Grill (1439 Alton Rd., Miami Beach; 305-532-LIME or www.limefreshmexicangrill.com). The chic eatery is constantly chock-a-block with customers clamoring for burritos. Tonight the celebrity hangout will host a party featuring live music by Las Estrellas. “This mariachi band is fantastic!” raves owner John Kunkel. “They’re so interactive and fun; they really kind of make the party on their own.” Besides the band, there will be cheap tacos, free chips and salsa, as well as giveaways by Corona.

To feel like you are really celebrating south of the border, head to Cantina Beach at the Ritz-Carlton, Key Biscayne (455 Grand Bay Drive; 305-365-4500). Sit beside the ocean and munch on complimentary chips and guacamole. Fancy margaritas range in price from eight to ten dollars, and the country’s only tequilier, Tibério Lobo, will make shooter recommendations.
Fri., May 5