Happy Cinco de Mayo!

It’s that time of year again!  It’s time to celebrate Cinco de Mayo!  First, a little history lesson, Cinco de Mayo does not celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day.  Mexican Independence Day is September 16th.  Cinco de Mayo celebrates the victory of 4,000 Mexican soldier against8,000 French soldiers on May 5, 1862.  This battle was the first time the French had been defeated in 50 years and it was the last time the Americas were invaded by a foreign army.  Cinco de Mayo is a regional holiday and is not celebrated in all of Mexico, but many other countries use the day to celebrate Mexican heritage. 

Where will you celebrate Cinco de Mayo?  Here are a few Fredericksburg suggestions:

1.  El Charro- This is my my favorite Mexican restaurant in Fred.  Located at 4611 Southpointe Pkwy off exit 126 (I-95).  The restaurant features a large bar, ample seating, and a large projection screen tv.  Drinks specials are offered throughout the year.  The prices are good and the food is great!  I usually get the #5 or the steak fajitas.  Free chips and salsa are served as soon as you sit down.  The waitstaff is friendly and fast. 

2.  Pancho Villa -Multiple Fredericksburg locations including: 10500 Spotsylvania Ave, 754 Warrenton Road, and 155 Garrisonville Road.  I hear alot of people talking about Pancho Villa, but I still prefer El Charro.  Expect Pancho Villa to fill up fast tonight because they are better known in the community.  Most of their locations offer ample seating and the service is pretty fast.  Prices are reasonable for Mexican food.

3.  Carlos O’Kelly’s -2306 Plank Road.  Yes, I am suggesting an Irish/ Mexican restaurant.  Actually it is just a Mexican Restaurant, if memory serves me correctly.  Parking is limited, but the restaurant offers plenty of seating.  Prices are good and the food is pretty good, but this is a large chain and you do loose some of the authenticity with large chains. 

4.  Chili’s - Several Fredericksburg locations including:  3104 Plank Road and 100100 Southpointe Pkwy.  If I had to choose a place to celebrate tonight, this would be my second choice.  Yes, it is a chain; yes, it is barely Mexican food.  But, the fajitas are great and the drink specials are awesome.  This is the most expensive of my suggestions, but it does offer something for everyone.   

Happy Cinco de Mayo!  And remember, celebrate responsibily!