Cinco de Mayo is one of the most anticipated ethnic holidays in the United States, and it's often recognized in cities throughout the country with events, parades, fireworks and more. It’s a great opportunity for restaurant owners to refresh their menu with a little Mexican flare to attract additional patrons during the month of May.
While many people think Cinco de Mayo celebrates Mexican independence, it is actually a celebratory remembrance of an unexpected Mexican victory against the French at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. While this day is commemorated in Mexico, it’s celebrated more in United States. In fact, Los Angeles holds the world’s largest Cinco de Mayo celebration each year, which draws 300,000 or more people! The great news for restaurant owners is that the Cinco de Mayo holiday is the perfect reason to create a special menu and host themed events throughout the month of May. And luckily, because Cinco de Mayo is a fun holiday celebrated by people of all ethnicities, fresh menu specials will attract regulars and new clientele.
Consider these in-demand Mexican foods when deciding what to include on your Cinco de Mayo menu. ACityDiscount is offering special discounts on the restaurant equipment necessary to create some of the most popular Mexican dishes.
Tacos
A Mexican staple, tacos are a hot seller on Cinco. Business often offer a wide variety of them a la carte or as taco platters, so be sure to provide soft and hard-shell options so guests can order their preference. Taco fryer baskets let you create fresh hard shells that patrons will be sure to love.
Guacamole
Americans eat 81 million pounds of avocados on Cinco de Mayo, according to the California Avocado Commission. It’s essential to get a great guacamole recipe and offer this tasty dip as an appetizer or upgrade for meals.
Margaritas
Margaritas are a popular drink that pair well with Mexican food, and are always in high demand on Cinco de Mayo. A frozen margarita machine is a worthwhile investment that can increase sales and save bartenders valuable time.
Fajitas
Everyone recognizes the sizzling sound of a fresh plate of fajitas ready to be served. Give your guests the whole fajita experience by stocking up on cast iron fajita platters to serve up this popular Mexican dish.
Tortilla chips
Skip the bread and butter and offer guests tortilla chips and salsa during Mexican celebrations. Whether you order chips or make them in house, a chip warmer keep them a fresh, hot and crunchy. Added bonus: the salty chips will have guests quickly craving a frozen specialty drink!
