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Best Bars For Cinco De Mayo In Pittsburgh

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Every May 5, Pittsburgh's Mexican restaurants and cantinas experience an influx of bar hoppers out to celebrate Cinco De Mayo, a festival that commemorates the Mexican army's victory during the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Since then, however, this commemoration of Mexican heritage has become one of the United States' largest with many bars and cantinas offering special events that feature authentic Mexican food, beverages and music. While western Pennsylvania may not boast a big Mexican population, there is certainly no shortage of fun hangouts in Pittsburgh where you can participate in Cinco De Mayo festivities. From cool cantinas to larger bars stocked with an extensive collection of tequila and beer, you're guaranteed to find a Cinco De Mayo celebration that's right for you. This May 5, head out to these five bars and treat yourself to the area's best Cinco De Mayo parties.

Round Corner Cantina
3720 Butler St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15201
(412) 904-2279
www.roundcornercantina.com

Round Corner Cantina in Pittsburgh's Lawrenceville neighborhood has been long regarded as the city's best Mexican-style cantina by locals who turn to this festive bar for its great drinks and even better atmosphere. Fill up on the cantina's menu of delicious Mexican dishes and sides, but be sure to save room for the bar's margaritas, cocktails, tequila and mixed drinks. Because this year's Cinco De Mayo falls on a Monday, you can also take advantage of daily specials and happy hour deals including half-priced tacos and $3 Micheladas. As a reminder, you must be at least 21 years of age to celebrate at Round Corner Cantina.

Cocina Mendoza
300 Mt. Lebanon Blvd.
Pittsburgh, PA 15234
(412) 531-2001
www.cocinamendozapgh.com

Since 2003, the family owned and operated Cocina Mendoza has continued to impress Pittsburghers with its authentic and mouthwatering recipes straight from Acapaulco native and owner Abraham Mendoza. Signature Acapulco-style dishes like crab cakes Veracruz and camarones a la diabla are created from the freshest ingredients available to ensure a tasty treat that packs a spicy punch. Regulars praise the fast, friendly and attentive cantina service. While you're there, you must try the cantina's signature drink, the Michelada Mendoza, or the margaritas that receive rave reviews. Both pair especially well with a variety of entrees, appetizers and sides, including fajitas, tacos, burritos, salads and enchiladas.

Krista's Cantina
2650 California Ave.
Pittsburgh, PA 15212
(412) 766-1676
www.kristascantina.com

Pittsburghers love their dive bars and Krista's Cantina is no exception when it comes to the city's best neighborhood bars. With nightly happy hour specials that promise great deals, including $1 off appetizers and wings, $2.25 micro/imports and $1.75 domestic bottles, it's hard to top Krista's Cantina for your Cinco De Mayo fun. Gather your amigos and start a game of pool or darts while catching your favorite game on the bar's big screen televisions. Krista's Cantina is located on California Avenue in the city's North Side.

Related: Best Mexican Food In Pittsburgh

Emiliano's Mexican Restaurant & Bar
2557 E. Carson St.
Pittsburgh, PA 15203
(412) 381-2229
www.emilianos.net

Planning for the bar's Cinco De Mayo celebration has been in the works months in advance at Emiliano's Mexican Restaurant & Bar in the city's South Side. Many consider Emiliano's to have the best margaritas in the region, served by the city's friendliest servers and bartenders, and you can sample some with Monday's specials that include $2.99 signature pint margaritas. If you prefer, you can even make your own premium margarita from Emiliano's premium tequila and orange liquor. Grab a seat on the outdoor patio if the weather permits.

Azul Bar Y Cantina
122 Broad St.
Leetsdale, PA 15056
(724) 266-6362
www.azulbarycantina.com

Azul Bar Y Cantina is tucked away on a quiet residential street in Leetsdale, but this intimate Mexican restaurant delivers big on flavor and a genuine Mexican experience. Start your Cinco De Mayo off right with a round of the bar's gently aged tequila followed by the highly recommended mahi mahi tacos or surf and turf burrito. Wash down your meal with a post-dinner drink of Mexican beer, a mojito or a glass of your favorite wine. While you're there, be sure to wish owners Angus and Donna a happy nine-year anniversary; after all, this was the day Azul first opened its doors.

Related: Best Latin Dance Clubs In Pittsburgh

Jessica Wasik lives in Pittsburgh where works as a full-time figure skating coach sharing her passion with todays generation of young skaters. A graduate of Robert Morris University with a degree in English Studies, Jessica is also a contributing writer for Allegheny West Magazine. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
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