Since back in 1862, when the Mexican army defeated French forces in an improbable and historic victory, Cinco de Mayo has been a vibrant celebration of Mexican culture and cuisine. It’s a day for margaritas, burritos, tacos, tamales, ceviche, flautas, jícama, nachos, chicharrón, queso, yuca, and much more. New York City has tons of great Mexican restaurants, and residents of the East Village luxury rental apartments at EVGB are only blocks away from five stellar options.

Rosie’s  |  29 E 2nd Street, New York, NY 10003

Tequila enthusiasts, this is your place. Their line-up of unique, hard-to-find craft tequilas is second-to-none, and their margaritas are peppy and balanced. The spicy and the blood orange variations are our favorites. Rosie’s traditional and remarkably fresh Mexican food succeeds on every level; their ceviche is wonderful; their fried plantains are great; and their enchiladas are premium grade.

Taqueria Diana  |  129 2nd Avenue, New York, NY 10003

Tacos, nachos, and burritos: that’s where Taqueria Diana thrives. Their nachos are absolutely massive, and there are six options to choose from. The Al Pastor and Asada selections are the most popular, but the original queso option is amazing too. Their tacos and burritos are large and filled to the brim with fresh ingredients. We recommend the Rajas burrito, where the poblano peppers really sing.

Fonda  |  40 Avenue B, New York, NY 10009

Fonda is a colorful, modern Mexican outpost started by celebrated chef Roberto Santibañez. This is the spot for some guacamole. It is made to order and is as fresh and flavorful as possible. Their enchiladas are a local favorite as well, and they have one of the largest vegan menus around. Oh, and their frozen hibiscus margarita is like nothing you’ve ever tasted.

La Palapa  |  77 St. Mark’s Place, New York, NY 10003

CBS named La Palapa’s margarita as a top-five selection in NYC. CBS is not wrong; their El Veinte Noble, which is made with 17-year aged tequila, fresh lime, Cointreau, and Grand Marnier is undoubtedly one of the best Cinco de Mayo cocktails in the region—it’s one of those drinks you tell all your friends about. Meanwhile, their stuffed peppers are delicious, and their fish tacos are refreshing and bright.

Sabor a Mexico  |  160 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10009

Tamale fans (and really, who isn’t a tamale fan?), pay attention; Sabor is the place for you. They did not reinvent the tamale—the options are vegetarian and chicken—but they have certainly perfected it. The tamales are large, stuffed to the brim, bursting with flavor, and never dry. And, if you’re not in the tamale mood, try their tacos. There are 12 varieties, and all are worth exploring.

Whatever Mexican fare you find yourself craving this Cinco de Mayo, the East Village has you more than covered. You may even want to do a little celebratory restaurant hopping to get a sample of each option.