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Cinco de Mayo is around the corner, and Detroit is gearing up for a vibrant weekend of festivities. From family-friendly cultural celebrations in Southwest Detroit’s Mexicantown to lively nightlife events downtown, the city offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a Metro Detroit local or just visiting, get ready to enjoy parades, authentic Mexican cuisine, taco and tequila parties, and community spirit in true neighborly Detroit fashion.
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Mexican Patriotic Committee Of Metro Detroit, Facebook
Southwest Detroit’s 60th Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade & Fiesta
Date: May 4, 2025
Starts at Patton Park and travels along W. Vernor Highway to Clark Par | Southwest Detroit’s, Mi 48201
Admission: Free
Website: Southwest Detroit’s 60th Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade & Fiesta
The big enchilada of Detroit’s Cinco de Mayo highlights is the 60th Annual Cinco de Mayo Parade in Southwest Detroit’s Mexicantown – a beloved tradition that brings thousands to the streets. On Sunday, May 4, 2025 at noon, colorful floats, marching bands, and dancers will parade down West Vernor Highway, honoring the 1862 Battle of Puebla and celebrating Detroit’s Mexican-American community.
The parade kicks off at Patton Park (Vernor & Woodmere) and continues 2.4 miles east, concluding near Clark Park (Scotten & Vernor) in the heart of Mexicantown. This year’s theme is “Past, Present & Future” (Pasado, Presente y Futuro), paying tribute to the founders of the parade and the next generation of community leaders. Expect a feast for the eyes – from folklórico dancers to lowriders – and a joyful atmosphere as families line the sidewalks with Mexican flags and big smiles.
Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
Date: May 3-4, 2025
21st St &, Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216
Admission: $20 Entry
Website: Cinco de Mayo Fiesta
But the fun doesn’t end with the parade. All weekend long, Southwest Detroit is hosting a Cinco de Mayo Fiesta at Bagley & 21st Street (just a block from Clark Park). This free community festival runs Saturday and Sunday (May 3–4) from noon to 8 p.m. and features art, live music, and plenty of food trucks. It’s a family-friendly block party where you can munch on authentic tacos, browse local vendor booths, and enjoy performances by mariachi bands and folkloric dancers. In fact, organizers promise a “fun cultural and musical fiesta” with art, music and food trucks for all ages. This is a great chance to experience the rich heritage of Mexicantown Detroit – don’t be surprised if you find yourself dancing in the street or joining neighbors in a spontaneous shout of “¡Viva México!”.
Cinco de Mile 5K Fun
Date: May 3, 2025
Clark Park | 1130 Clark Ave., Detroit, MI 48209
Admission: Participant Tickets $25
Website: Cinco de Mile 5K Fun
For active folks, Saturday morning brings the Cinco de Mile 5K Fun Run at Clark Park. Starting at 9:00 a.m. on May 3, this informal run invites participants to jog or walk three laps around the park (dogs and strollers welcome). It’s a healthy way to kick off the festivities and support a good cause (the run promotes mental health awareness). Registration usually happens on-site – just show up in your running shoes and festive green-white-and-red gear. By the time you finish, you’ll have earned those post-race tamales!
Insider Tip: The parade and fiesta will draw big crowds – arrive early to find parking and a good viewing spot along Vernor. Locals often set up lawn chairs by the sidewalk. After the parade, Clark Park is a hot spot to meet the parade participants and grab snacks from vendors. And remember, these community events are free and open to everyone, so bring the whole family and immerse yourself in the neighborly fun.
Fiesta Detroit at El Club
Date: May 4, 2025
El Club | 4114 W, 4114 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Admission: $33.99
Website: Fiesta Detroit at El Club
A new Cinco de Mayo cultural celebration taking place at El Club (4114 W. Vernor) in Southwest Detroit on Sunday afternoon into late night. Billed as an “all-day cultural takeover” following the parade, it runs from 4 PM until 2 AM​. The event highlights Afro-Mexican singer Sarah La Morena live in concert, plus DJs spinning Latin music (reggaeton, cumbia, etc.), local performers and dancers, live art and community activations. Authentic Mexican food (by “Mama’s Kitchen”) and local art vendors will be on site. Fiesta Detroit is a must-attend for those looking to keep the party going after the parade with an inclusive, cultural vibe (free before 6 PM, ticketed after)​.
Cinco de Mayo Block Party
Date: May 5, 2025
The Annex | 24 W Adams Ave B, Detroit, MI 48226
Love and Tequila | 20 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Brass Rail | 18 W Adams Ave, Detroit, MI 48226
Admission: Sold Out!
Website: Cinco de Mayo Block Party
The Annex/Brass Rail/Love & Tequila (Sun, May 4): A massive multi-venue party in downtown Detroit on Sunday night. Hosted by the Annex nightclub (in partnership with neighboring spots Love & Tequila and Brass Rail), this 21+ block party lets attendees hop between three connected venues with one ticket. Promoters are calling it “Metro Detroit’s BIGGEST and BEST Cinco de Mayo event with 3 venues for 1 ticket!” featuring tequila shot deals and taco specials. Doors typically open in the evening (check event details for exact time). Expect packed dance floors, DJs, and a high-energy crowd. (Note: This is a ticketed nightlife event; attendees must be 21+.)
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Tacos & Tequila Bar Crawl – Corktown
Date: May 3, 2025
Downtown Detroit, Detroit MI 48216
Admission: $30
Website: Tacos & Tequila Bar Crawl
An official Cinco de Mayo weekend bar crawl kicking off at 4:00 PM Saturday. Starting from Corktown Tavern (1716 Michigan Ave)​, participants will trek to multiple bars in Corktown and downtown Detroit, enjoying exclusive drink specials (think margaritas & tequila shots) and festive tacos along the way​. The crawl runs until 11 PM​, and hundreds of attendees are expected. Tickets (starting ~$7) are available through. Grab some friends, don your sombreros, and prepare for a lively night of bar-hopping in celebration of Cinco de Mayo.
Lucha Libre “LuchaBoom”
Date: May 2, 2025
Masonic Temple | 500 Temple St, Detroit, MI 48201
Admission: $35 Standing | $40 Seated | $VIP
Website: Lucha Libre “LuchaBoom”
To jump-start the weekend, the Masonic Temple will host LuchaBoom – Cinco de Mayo Especial on Friday night (8:00 PM show, with VIP entry at 7:00)​. Sponsored by Don Julio Tequila, this is a Mexican wrestling and variety show featuring authentic luchadores (like AEW/ROH star Danhausen and luchadora Sakura), acrobats, live music, and more wild entertainment. VIP ticket holders get a tequila tasting (including Don Julio 1942) and meet-and-greet with the wrestlers before the show. It’s a 21+ event combining high-flying lucha libre action with Cinco de Mayo revelry​ – perfect for wrestling fans or anyone looking for a unique holiday night out.
Other Parties & Celebrations
Throughout the weekend, numerous bars and clubs are hosting Cinco de Mayo-themed nights. For example, The Annex nightclub has themed parties each night (e.g. “Drinko de Mayo” on Friday and a Miami-inspired Latin night on Saturday), Society Detroit is throwing a Cinco Day Party on Saturday, and Level Two Bar + Rooftop is advertising a Sunday Funday Rooftop Fiesta. On Cinco de Mayo day itself (Mon, May 5), many restaurants and bars will offer specials – JoJo’s Shake Bar downtown, for instance, is doing 50% off tequila cocktails, Patron margarita “trees,” and other boozy deals on May 5. Be on the lookout for karaoke fiestas, taco eating contests, and live mariachi at various venues as the city’s nightlife embraces the holiday spirit all weekend long.
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Taqueria El Rey, Facebook
Mexican Restaurants & Food Trucks in Detroit
Mexicantown & Southwest Detroit
Iconic Eateries: Detroit’s Southwest side (Mexicantown) is home to many of the city’s best-known Mexican restaurants. Long-running favorites like Xochimilco, Los Galanes, and Armando’s have been staples for decades, serving up classic Tex-Mex plates and the famous Detroit-style botana appetizer. Nearby, Evie’s Tamales has been beloved for its handmade tamales for over 40 years. These establishments are cultural fixtures and remain busy during Cinco de Mayo week (and year-round) for their festive atmospheres and reliable comfort food.
Southwest Detroit – Newer & Notable Spots
In recent years, a wave of new or revamped Mexican eateries in Southwest Detroit has drawn attention for their authentic flavors and unique concepts:
Taqueria El Rey
Open: Mon-Tue, Thur-Sun (11am-10pm)
3400 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 357-3094
Website: Taqueria El Rey
A legendary taco and grilled chicken spot that just reopened at a new location (3400 Bagley) after a fire destroyed its original building in 2021. Famed for its wood-grilled pollo asado, smoked ribs, and tacos, El Rey is “one of Detroit’s most beloved taquerias” and now also houses the family’s Tres Leches ‘n’ Snacks dessert counter for paletas and treats​. Its comeback has been highly anticipated by locals.
El Barzón
Open: Tue-Thur (11am-9pm) | Fri (11am-10pm) | Sat (4-10pm) | Sun (5-8pm)
3710 Junction Ave, Detroit, MI 48210
Phone: (313) 894-2070
Website: El Barzón
An upscale yet homey Mexican-Italian fusion restaurant on Junction St. Known for handmade pasta alongside mole and enchiladas, El Barzón offers an elegant dining experience blending two cuisines. It continues to be a destination for special occasions (with patio seating in summer).
El Palenque
Open: Mon-Sun (10am-7pm)
5426 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 849-1319
Website: El Palenque
A humble, cash-only spot on W. Vernor that’s known for soulful, homestyle cooking. Their specialty is earthy mole (try the chicken mole) and tender guisado de res (stewed beef) in burritos. With a retro lunch-counter vibe, El Palenque is a local favorite that “everything that comes out of the kitchen…is made with love,” including recipes handed down through generations.
Los Altos
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (9am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (9am-12am)
7056 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 841-3109
Website: Los Altos
A family-run restaurant on W. Vernor (near Livernois) offering an extensive menu from shareable appetizers to traditional entrées. Named after Jalisco’s highlands, Los Altos is known for dishes like chile rellenos, gorditas, birria stew, and carne asada fries, plus a full bar serving micheladas and cantaritos. It’s a bit newer on the scene but has quickly become a go-to for its wide range of authentic options.
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El Nacimiento Mexican Restaurant, Facebook
Taqueria El Nacimiento
Open: Mon-Thur, Sun (9am-11pm) | Fri-Sat (9am-12am)
7400 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 554-1790
Website: Taqueria El Nacimiento
A sprawling, diner-style restaurant on Vernor that’s a true neighborhood mainstay. El Nacimiento is renowned for its weekend brunch crowd and late-night hours, serving everything from pozole and menudo to sizzling fajitas and even seafood like whole fried fish​. They make strong margaritas and enormous micheladas. It’s an ideal spot for a hearty family meal (their spare ribs in salsa verde are a must-try) and has been feeding Southwest Detroit for many years.
La Terraza
Open: Mon, Wed (10am-10pm) | Thur-Sat (10am-2am) | Sun (10am-11:30pm)
8445 Vernor Hwy, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 843-1433
Website:
A newer entry on West Vernor known for its fine Mexican dining atmosphere. La Terraza specializes in seafood dishes – think ceviche-topped tostadas and a mixed-mariscos molcajete – as well as rich birria stew and other Jalisco-style specialties. With a stage for live regional Mexican music and a full bar, La Terraza offers dinner with entertainment. It’s become a popular venue for those seeking Mexican cuisine in a lively, upscale setting (and great for large groups).
La Palapa del Parian
Open: Mon-Sun (9am-10pm)
1633 Lawndale St, Detroit, MI 48209
Phone: (313) 749-7143
Website: La Palapa del Parian
Opened in late 2022, this restaurant on Lawndale St. is an offshoot of a famed local taco truck family (Nancy and “Wicho” Diaz) who’ve operated mobile taquerías in Southwest for nearly two decades​. La Palapa offers a sit-down experience of their truck favorites: tacos al pastor, carnitas, birria, and even mariscos from their seafood truck “El Imperio”​detroit.eater.com. The interior is styled like a rustic Jalisco cantina, complete with a large bar for margaritas and aguas frescas. This Eater award-winning spot brings street-food flavor indoors, and it even takes reservations. (Fun fact: the owners still operate a fleet of taco trucks around Mexicantown, so you’ll see their stands serving tacos, tostadas, and burgers at various corners on warm weekends​.)
Antojitos Southwest (Food Truck)
Open: Fri-Sun (11:30am-7:30pm)
2100 Bagley St, Detroit, MI 48216
Phone: (313) 854-5239
Website: Antojitos Southwest (Food Truck)
One of the notable food trucks in the area, Antojitos Southwest launched Detroit’s first dedicated birria taco truck in 2021​. Stationed at Wabash & Bagley (near Corktown/Michigan Central), this truck focuses on birria de res in many forms: cheesy quesabirria tacos with consommé, birria-topped fries, and even birria ramen (a creative twist blending noodles with rich birria broth)​. They also have carne asada fries and refreshing drinks. It’s an ideal stop for street food aficionados, especially after biking the new Southwest Greenway trail nearby​. Antojitos’ success reflects Detroit’s booming food truck scene and the city’s love of birria – expect a line during peak hours!
Midtown & Downtown Detroit – Noteworthy Spots
While Southwest remains the heart of Mexican cuisine in Detroit, there are a few gems in other parts of the city:
Vecino
Open: Tue-Fri (5-10pm) | Sat (4:30-10pm) | Sun (4:30-9pm)
4100 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48201
Phone: (313) 500-1615
Website: Vecino
A newer taqueria in Midtown (Third Ave.) distinguished by its from-scratch approach. Vecino is Detroit’s first restaurant to implement an heirloom corn masa program, nixtamalizing Mexican corn to make its own fresh tortillas and tamales. This attention to masa quality shows in their tacos and quesadillas. In addition to traditional street tacos, they serve inventive dishes and cocktails in a chic, casual space. Vecino brings an authentic taste of Mexican corn culture to Midtown and has earned praise from local food writers for its dedication to craft.
Jordan’s Family Restaurant
Open: Mon-Sat (7:30am-3pm) | Sun (9am-3pm)
7031 Michigan Ave, Detroit, MI 48210
Phone: (313) 843-8830
Website: Jordan’s Family Restaurant
A unique new diner-style restaurant opened by the family behind Taqueria Mi Pueblo . Jordan’s isn’t in Midtown (it’s in Southwest Detroit, on Michigan Ave.), but it’s worth noting as a hybrid Mexican-American diner. It took over a classic diner space and now serves American breakfast staples alongside Mexican favorites like chilaquiles and huevos rancheros. The menu reflects a blend of cultures, much like Detroit itself. This spot replaced Mi Pueblo on Eater’s 2025 “best Mexican” map, indicating its rising prominence. If you’re looking for a great Mexican brunch or late-night bites beyond the usual tacos, Jordan’s is an up-and-comer to try.
Downtown Options
Downtown Detroit proper has fewer traditional Mexican restaurants, as many past venues (like Rojo, Calexico, etc.) have closed. However, you can still find tacos and Mexican-inspired eats: for instance, Condado Tacos (a build-your-own taco bar chain) opened locations in Campus Martius and Royal Oak, offering quick casual tacos and margaritas. Additionally, food trucks often serve downtown lunch crowds – keep an eye out for pop-up taco stands near office districts. And of course, many downtown bars (e.g. Ready Player One’s Level Two, or Bakersfield’s successor if any) embrace Cinco de Mayo with tacos and tequila specials even if they aren’t full Mexican eateries. In short, while downtown’s Mexican dining is mostly chains or pop-ups, the options are growing.
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Mezcal Ferndale, Facebook
Beyond Detroit: Metro Area Cinco de Mayo Celebrations
Detroit proper isn’t the only place bursting with festivities. The greater Metro Detroit area – from the inner-ring suburbs to neighboring counties – has its own slate of Cinco de Mayo celebrations and beloved Mexican eateries. This dedicated section highlights events and spots outside the city limits that are worth the drive (or short hop) for a change of scene. Whether you’re in Oakland County, Downriver, or somewhere in between, you can join the party. Here’s what’s happening beyond Detroit:
Ferndale Cinco de Mayo Festival
Date: May 3-4, 2025
Downtown Ferndale, Ferndale MI 48220
Admission: Free to attend
Website: Ferndale Cinco de Mayo Festival
Ferndale is bringing the fiesta to the suburbs with a two-day Cinco de Mayo Festival that has quickly become a staple in Oakland County. Now in its third year, this family-friendly street festival packs downtown Ferndale with the sounds, sights, and flavors of Mexico. It’s presented by the local favorite Mezcal Mexican Bar & Kitchen, so you can bet the margaritas and tacos will be top-notch. Along East 9 Mile Road, you’ll find a lineup of delicious food trucks showcasing authentic Mexican cuisine – from al pastor tacos to churros – as well as stands pouring refreshing beverages (yes, plenty of tequila and mezcal-based drinks for the adults). A highlight that sets this festival apart is its Lucha Libre wrestling matches right in the street! Crowds gather around as costumed luchadores perform daring moves, adding an exciting spectacle that both kids and adults love. Live music and dance performances keep the energy high, featuring everything from mariachis to local bands jamming under the spring sun. There’s also a dedicated kids’ play zone, making this event a hit for parents looking to entertain little ones – think face painting, games, and maybe even a bounce house to tire them out. Ferndale’s inclusive, welcoming spirit shines through this whole event, mirroring the city’s diverse community. It’s a prime example of Metro Detroit’s suburbs embracing cultural celebrations with open arms. If you’re in the area (or feel like exploring beyond Detroit), Ferndale’s festival is a must-visit. Plus, the surrounding downtown is full of eclectic shops and bars, so you can easily make a day of it.
Royal Oak Tequila Fest
Date: May 3, 2025
Royal Oak Farmers Market | 316 E. 11 Mile Rd., Royal Oak, MI 48067
Admission: $50–$70 (approx., ticketed entry with tasting included)
Website: Royal Oak Tequila Fest
Calling all tequila aficionados – Royal Oak has a Cinco de Mayo celebration tailored just for you. The Royal Oak Tequila Fest is an annual affair that turns the Farmers Market into an agave paradise for one night. Under the historic market’s pavilion, guests can sample a wide variety of tequila and mezcal brands, from well-known labels to small-batch artisan producers. We’re talking silver, reposado, añejo – the whole spectrum of that smooth (and sometimes fiery) spirit. Not a straight tequila sipper? No worries, because the festival also serves up handcrafted margaritas and creative tequila cocktails that might convert even the hesitant. To keep your taste buds balanced, several local taco trucks and Mexican restaurants set up shop on-site, so you can pair those drinks with gourmet tacos, tamales, or perhaps some zesty ceviche. Live music (often a mix of Latin bands and upbeat cover groups) and interactive games add to the fun, creating a lively atmosphere that’s part tasting event, part dance party. It’s mostly an adult crowd (21+ for obvious reasons), and the vibe is upbeat and social – don’t be surprised if you end up making new friends while discussing the merits of highland vs. lowland tequila. For those in the northern suburbs, this is a convenient way to celebrate without trekking downtown, and it offers a different flavor of Cinco de Mayo – one that’s all about exploring Mexican spirits and cuisine in a festive setting. Just remember to pace yourself and maybe arrange for a designated driver or ride share, because the tequila will be flowing generously.
Wyandotte Cinco de Mayo Margarita Fest
Date: May 4, 2025
Oak Street between 1st & 2nd Streets | Downtown Wyandotte, Wyandotte MI 48192
Admission: Free
Website: Wyandotte Cinco de Mayo Margarita Fest
Downriver joins the party with its very own Margarita Fest in downtown Wyandotte, turning the city’s riverfront area into a lively fiesta by the Detroit River. Wyandotte’s Cinco de Mayo celebration is an all-day affair dedicated to that iconic Mexican cocktail: the mighty margarita. As you walk down Oak Street, which gets closed off to traffic, you’ll encounter multiple tents and booths each shaking up their unique take on the margarita – from classic lime to strawberry, mango, and even some spicy jalapeño infusions for the adventurous palate. This festival isn’t just about drinks, though. Local bands hit the stage throughout the afternoon, bringing a mix of rock, pop, and Latin tunes to keep the crowd moving and grooving. There’s a strong community feel – you’ll see neighbors chatting, families with strollers (yes, it’s open to all ages; they have non-alcoholic treats too), and friends dancing together in the open air. Hungry? You’re in luck, because Wyandotte’s food vendors and nearby restaurants bring their A-game, offering up Mexican street food favorites. It’s not uncommon to see people balancing a plate of loaded nachos in one hand and a margarita in the other – it’s a skill worth mastering here. As the afternoon turns to evening, the party vibe ramps up. Your Generation, a popular local party band, has been known to rock the stage and get everyone singing along to familiar hits (with a few Latin favorites mixed in for the occasion). By the end of the night, Downtown Wyandotte feels like a close-knit block party that just happened to invite the whole city. It’s a testament to Metro Detroit’s regional pride: even outside Detroit proper, communities are eager to celebrate Cinco de Mayo together, embracing Mexican culture and having a blast while doing so.
11th Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival - Lincoln Park
Date: May 3, 2025
1681 Fort St, Lincoln Park, MI 48146
Admission: Free
Website: 11th Annual Cinco de Mayo Festival
Downriver residents can join Lincoln Park’s annual Cinco de Mayo Festival on Saturday, May 3 from 12:00–7:00 p.m. Now in its 11th year, this community festival—hosted by the Lincoln Park Downtown Development Authority—takes place at 1681–1685 Fort Street (between Arlington and O’Connor)​. Expect a neighborhood block-party atmosphere with local food vendors, music, and family fun. (Vendor booths and sponsorships were still being organized as of late April​, so stay tuned for specific attractions.) It’s a great free outdoor event for celebrating in the Downriver area.
Cantina El Dorado’s 4-Day Fiesta
Date: May 2-5, 2025
3300 Auburn Rd, Auburn Hills, MI 48326
Admission: Free
Website: Cantina El Dorado’s 4-Day Fiesta
Cantina El Dorado in Auburn Hills is pulling out all the stops with a “Cinco de Mayo – 4 Days of Non-Stop Fiesta” running Friday through Monday. From May 2 to May 5, this Mexican restaurant & bar (3300 Auburn Rd, Auburn Hills) is throwing what they dub “the BIGGEST party all weekend long,” featuring handcrafted margaritas (fresh-squeezed lime juice and all), special fiesta platters, and DJ entertainment every day – nightly DJs on Friday/Saturday, plus daytime DJs on Sunday and on Cinco de Mayo itself. There will be free swag, giveaways, and an open patio to enjoy the spring weather​. No cover charge is required – just show up in your brightest fiesta attire and enjoy the food, drinks, and music from open to close. With doors opening at 11 a.m. each day, this four-day party aims to be “the #1 stop on your Cinco de Mayo party list” for Oakland County revelers.
Cinco de Mayo Crawl at Fountain Walk
Date: May 4, 2025
Fountain Walk | 44325 W 12 Mile Rd, Novi, MI 48377
Admission: Free
Website: Cinco de Mayo Crawl at Fountain Walk
On Sunday, May 4, Twelve Mile Crossing at Fountain Walk in Novi is hosting a fun Cinco de Mayo Crawl from 2:00–5:00 p.m. Dress up in your best sombrero or fiesta wear and explore the Fountain Walk entertainment complex while collecting stamps from participating bars and restaurants. It’s a free, 21+ event: start at the registration table inside The Hub Stadium to get your event card, then visit each participating venue (no purchases required) to get stamped. Completed cards earn you entries into a raffle for prizes like hotel stays, gift cards, and more​. (As a bonus, showing a receipt from a Fountain Walk business will net you a free Cinco de Mayo Crawl t-shirt, while supplies last.) Winners will be drawn at 5:30 p.m. – you need not be present to win, but it’s more fun if you stick around! This crawl is a great way to sample multiple Novi hotspots in one afternoon and win some swag along the way.
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Mezcal Ferndale, Facebook
Metro Detroit’s Mexican Cuisine
The suburbs around Detroit boast some truly excellent and popular Mexican restaurants, ensuring Cinco de Mayo celebrations extend throughout the metro area:
Mezcal Mexican Bar & Kitchen
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-10pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-11pm) | Sun (12-7pm)
201 E 9 Mile Rd, Ferndale, MI 48220
Phone: (248) 268-3915
Website: Mezcal Mexican Bar & Kitchen
A vibrant restaurant and tequila bar in downtown Ferndale (also the host venue for the big Ferndale Cinco de Mayo Festival). Mezcal is known for its craft margaritas and mezcal cocktails, modern Mexican small plates, and a fun indoor-outdoor atmosphere. It’s become a neighborhood favorite for both weekend brunch and late-night tacos. (Ferndale is also home to Imperial, a popular California-style taco bar serving street tacos and cocktails in a trendy setting – always packed on weekends.)
Casa Amado Taqueria
Open: Mon, Thur, Fr-Sat (11am-8pm) | Wed (9am-8pm)
2705 Coolidge Hwy, Berkley, MI 48072
Phone: (248) 398-3294
Website: Casa Amado Taqueria
A suburban standout run by chef Amado Lopez. Housed in a converted diner on Coolidge Hwy, Casa Amado gained acclaim during the pandemic for its delicious tacos and creative Mexican fare, to the point that Chef Lopez was named a 2023 James Beard Award semifinalist in the Emerging Chef category. The specialty here is slow-braised meats (like pork in red chile) and even Sonoran-style hot dogs. Casa Amado brings serious culinary chops to its unassuming location, making Berkley a dining destination for Mexican food lovers.
O.W.L.
Open: Mon-Sat (24 hours) | Sun (12am-11pm)
27302 Woodward Ave #0927, Royal Oak, MI 48067
Phone: (248) 808-6244
Website: O.W.L.
A 24/7 diner in Royal Oak that puts a playful Mexican-American twist on comfort food​. By day you can get coffee and churro French toast; late at night, you’ll find tacos, chilaquiles, and torta ahogada sandwiches on the menu​. It’s a favorite after-hours spot, blending classic diner vibes with Latin flavor. Don’t miss their chorizo breakfast burrito or the cinnamon-sugar churro bites.
M Cantina
Open: Mon-Sat (10am-11pm) | Sun (10am-10pm)
13214 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48126
Phone: (313) 399-9117
Website: M Cantina
Arguably one of metro Detroit’s most innovative Mexican restaurants. Chef Junior Merino’s M Cantina is a Nuevo Latino street food bistro that is entirely halal and known for chef-driven tacos and tortas (fillings range from duck carnitas to braised short rib)​. Merino is also a celebrated mixologist, so the craft cocktails and fresh juices here are top-notch​​ (they offer both boozy and zero-proof cocktails). Since opening in 2017, M Cantina has earned a reputation for modern, elevated Mexican cuisine – it’s frequently listed among metro Detroit’s best restaurants​. Reservations are recommended for weekend nights.
Don Taco Bar & Grill
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-9pm) | Fri-Sat (11am-10pm) | Sun (12-9pm)
22180 Michigan Ave, Dearborn, MI 48124
Phone: (313) 427-8897
Website: Don Taco Bar & Grill
If you’re looking for a casual restaurant party on Cinco de Mayo itself (Monday, May 5), Don Taco Bar & Grill in Dearborn is worth a stop. They’ll be celebrating all day from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on 5/5, so “grab your best fiesta hat and join us for Cinco de Mayo!” as the restaurant proclaims​. Expect festive décor, a fun atmosphere, and all the classic Mexican dishes and margaritas to satisfy your cravings. Don Taco is a popular local spot for Tex-Mex favorites, and on Cinco de Mayo the vibe will be extra lively (think music, drink specials, and plenty of chips & salsa). It’s a family-friendly option to enjoy lunch or dinner while getting into the holiday spirit.
Mexican Fiesta
Open: Mon-Thur (11am-8:30pm) | Fri-sat (11am-9:30pm) | Sun (1-8pm)
24310 Ford Rd, Dearborn Heights, MI 48127
Phone: (313) 274-3066
Open: Mon-Sat (11am-9pm) | Sun (1-8pm)
44401 Ford Rd, Canton, MI 48187
Website: Mexican Fiesta
A long-running metro Detroit Mexican restaurant (family-owned since the 1960s) known for its hearty Tex-Mex classics. Mexican Fiesta isn’t trendy, but it is beloved – expect big combo plates of enchiladas, burritos, sizzling fajitas, and pitchers of margaritas in a casual, family-friendly setting. On Cinco de Mayo, Mexican Fiesta’s original Dearborn location typically has lines out the door (they often set up a tent or extra bar service to handle the holiday rush). It’s a testament to the region’s love of Mexican-American cuisine.
Cinco de Mayo 2025 in Detroit and its metro area promises to be a joyful showcase of culture, community, and camaraderie. From the colorful processions in Southwest Detroit to the clinking glasses in Royal Oak, each event and venue adds a unique note to the festive symphony of celebrations. What truly stands out, however, is the spirit behind it all: Metro Detroiters coming together to honor history, support local businesses, and simply have a great time with neighbors and friends. In a region known for its strong neighborhoods and big heart, these celebrations are about more than one day – they’re about community pride and shared experiences. So grab your friends, put on your most festive attire (skip the clichés and keep it respectful!), and head out to explore all that Detroit and its surroundings have to offer this Cinco de Mayo. Whether you’re cheering at the parade, dancing until midnight, or feasting on the best tacos in town, you’ll be part of a citywide salute to heritage and unity. ¡Feliz Cinco de Mayo, Metro Detroit! Go out, enjoy, and don’t forget to share your own stories and memories of the celebration – after all, the best part of any festival is the community that makes it come alive. Here’s to a safe, happy, and unforgettable Cinco de Mayo weekend filled with Detroit love and Mexican flair.
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