Queens is a true melting pot of cultures, and few celebrations capture that spirit quite like Cinco de Mayo. Every year, the borough comes alive with vibrant festivities and the unmistakable aromas of Mexican cuisine, as local eateries prepare for one of the most festive cultural holidays on the calendar.
The bustling neighborhoods are rich with authentic eats, from Tacombi in Forest Hills to Skinny’s Cantina in Long Island City. You can’t get enough of the tacos, quesadillas and burritos offered in one of the most diverse boroughs in the country.
Whether you’re commemorating Mexico’s victory over France at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 or indulging in savory bites, an array of Cinco de Mayo cuisine in Queens is available to your heart’s content. Support your local Mexican restaurant and explore these delectable spots to satisfy your taste buds.
Lime and Salt Restaurant Bar | Rego Park
Lime and Salt is a beloved neighborhood staple in Central Queens that serves appetizing Mexican dishes. The menu features the Boulevard Molcajete, carne asada, and chiles rellenos. Guests have the option to order from the burger bar. La Chula burger, tortas ahogadas and buttermilk chicken sandwich are a few of the options. You can’t celebrate Cinco de Mayo without tacos, like the chorizo tacos, shrimp tacos, and blackened mahi mahi tacos. The friendly service adds to the dining experience.
98-102 Queens Blvd., Rego Park
718-275-1575 | Instagram
Otra Casita Mexicana | Ridgewood
Savor delicious dishes at this cozy spot located in the vibrant neighborhood of Ridgewood. The edible roster at Otra Casita Mexicana features enchiladas, queso fundido and steak quesadillas. After settling down at one of their tables (or at the bar), admire the creative décor inspired by traditional Mexican art.
66-21 Fresh Pond Rd., Ridgewood
929-250-2104 | Instagram
Tacombi | Forest Hills
Dive into the premier taqueria on Austin Street, where tradition meets modernity. Founded in Yucatán, Mexico, Tacombi offers colorful cuisines inspired by various culinary regions. Enjoy their entradas, or appetizers, featuring corn esquites, avocado tostada and classic rice and beans. Choose from a variety of tacos, including obscure flavors like Al Pastor, with Mexico City-style free-range corn, and Seared Fish.
71-22 Austin St., Forest Hills
347-454-9407 | Instagram
5 Burro Café | Forest Hills
Nestled in Austin Street, 5 Burro Café claims to have the best skirt steak and margaritas in town. The chefs prepare meals with high-quality ingredients guaranteed to satiate your appetite. Your drink choices include Michelada, a popular drink served with Mexican beer, Worcestershire sauce, lime and Tabasco, the Killer Croc and Lizzie Burro.
72-05 Austin St., Forest Hills
718-544-2984 | Instagram
El Coyote | Forest Hills
El Coyote, a family-friendly restaurant that originated in Connecticut, has two locations in Queens — Jackson Heights and Forest Hills welcomed the chain, allowing locals to enjoy various margaritas. Discover gourmet Mexican food from the comfort of Austin Street. The roster of popular dishes includes churrasco, corn tortillas and fajitas.
70-09 Austin St. 2nd Floor, Forest Hills
718-268-0777 | Instagram
Ruta Oaxaca Mexican Cuisine | Astoria
Located in the heart of Astoria, locals revel in the upscale dining experience and traditional recipes offered by Ruta Oaxaca. Choose from an assortment of flavorsome entrées — the Grilled Pescado and Steak Oaxaqueño are among the best dishes. For vegetarians, vegetable empanadas, tacos and quesadillas are available.
35-03 Broadway, Astoria
929-349-1228 | Instagram
Flushing is home to one of the most delectable Mexican restaurants in Queens. El Patron’s comforting ambiance and spacious area are perfect for Cinco de Mayo celebrations. The endless variety of plates, listed in a section entitled “Mexican Heritages,” features chiles rellenos, enchiladas suizas and chimichangas.
194-01 Northern Blvd., Flushing
718-819-2121 | Instagram
Skinny’s Cantina | Long Island City
In the heart of Long Island City, indulge in high-quality Mexican cuisine with stunning views of the East River. Skinny’s Favorites feature the cantina burger, crispy pescado, and veggie burrito. The flavored margaritas are a must-try for both regulars and newcomers. The endless variety of Mexican dishes makes this restaurant stand out.
4705 Center Blvd., Long Island City
718-729-8300 | Instagram
Casa Enrique | Long Island City
Casa Enrique is a Michelin-rated restaurant that offers refined Mexican cuisine inspired by traditional dishes. Chef Cosme Aguilar uses exquisite ingredients to enhance the gastronomic experience. Enjoy their tacos de pescado, chile relleno and carne asada. In celebration of the holiday, this cozy spot will take you on an exquisite culinary journey.
5-48 49th Ave., Long Island City
347-448-6040 | Instagram
Don Tequila Urban Cantina | Glendale
Located at Woodhaven Boulevard and Myrtle Avenue, this local eatery takes pride in its curated selection of authentic Mexican food. At Don Tequila Urban Cantina, enjoy an assortment of traditional cuisines, featuring quesadillas, fajitas, ceviche and tacos. Don’t miss their signature cocktails, such as the Smoky Mezcalita, Mexican Mule, Mex Mojito and Michelada.
83-38 Woodhaven Blvd., Glendale
917-300-6556 | Instagram
