Cinco de Mayo is an annual celebration of Mexican culture and heritage that takes place across the U.S. and regionally in Mexico, where it's known in the state of Puebla as El Día de la Batalla de Puebla (“The Day of the Battle of Puebla”). Cinco de Mayo is observed to commemorate the Mexican army's victory over the much larger, better-armed French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. The U.S. celebration of Cinco de Mayo originated in Mexican American communities of the American West, Southwest and Northwest and today, is widespread across the country. Each year, the city and surrounding coastal communities celebrate with special events, dining deals, specialty cocktails and more.
From mezcal and cervezas to live music and tacos, below are our picks for celebrating Cinco de Mayo in and around Newport.
COVID-19 NOTE:
When you're ready, we can't wait to welcome you back to The Classic Coast. Rest assured, the safety and well-being of both visitors and locals remains our top priority. The mask mandate requiring face coverings in Rhode Island has been lifted, however local businesses may ask you to wear a mask when visiting their establishments. Please be prepared for individual business mask policies. Additionally, shops, attractions and tours are monitoring the number of guests at any given time and may ask you to socially distance to enter.
All we ask when you land on these shores is that you play your part in keeping everyone safe. Please be kind, adhere to guidelines and maintain social distancing.
WHERE TO EAT
DIEGO'S
Welcome to the place where the food has just as much character as the atmosphere, laden with string lights, Day of the Dead skulls, and a Buddha or two strewn about. The menu boasts California-style Mexican dishes contrived with fresh ingredients and homemade, to-die-for sauces with bold flavor. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio offers for a lively experience in the heart of downtown Newport.
Pro Tip: Do not skip the blood orange margarita.
PERRO SALADO
Tucked away on Charles Street, Perro Salado serves up fresh, authentic Mexican cuisine inside a historic, 18th-century Naval officer’s home turned casual gathering space. Their outdoor patio rests under a charming pergola adorned in Edison Bulb string lights, making it an enchanting spot for an evening of margaritas and authentic Mexican eats.
LA COSTA FOOD TRUCK
Newport's only lobster and tacos food truck is the brainchild of the owners and creators at La Forge Restaurant. The menu offers myriad Mexican favorites, including street corn, nachos, and of course taco varieties including pulled pork, pulled chicken, shrimp, tofu, steak and lobster.
Where to find them:
La Costa will be at Newport Craft Brewery for Cinco de Mayo from 5:00 - 8:00 PM offering their regular menu while Newport Craft serves up specialty cocktails.
SPECIAL HAPPENINGS:
DIEGO'S CINCO DE MAYO TAKEOVER
Where: Wharf Southern Kitchen
Diego's Newport is taking over the kitchen at Wharf Southern Kitchen on Cinco de Mayo.
DIEGO'S BARRIO CANTINA X REJECTS BEER CO.
When: 12:00 - 9:00 PM
Where: Diego's Barrio Cantina
Diego's Barrio Cantina in Middletown will have booth floors open with food and drink specials all day. Head next door to Rejects Beer Co. to grab tacos from the taco cart and New Mexican Lager on tap or in the can.
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