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Best Bars For Cinco De Mayo In Tampa Bay

Aside from several fine Mexican dining options, Tampa Bay is lucky to serve as home to some exquisite Mexican-themed, lounge-friendly restaurants/bars. So after a delicious meal in one of our authentic Mexican eateries, wash it down with a fine tequila, margarita or light beer to celebrate Cinco de Mayo late into the night. Here we share a tour of the best in Mexican bars and nightlife our region has to offer.

Green Lemon

915 S. Howard Ave.
Tampa, FL 33606
(813) 868-5463
www.eatgreenlemon.com

In addition to a fun, festive atmosphere and excellent food that lends a modern spin on classic Mexican fare, Green Lemon prides itself on its well-stocked bar. When it comes to tequila, this spot isn't playing games with literally dozens of different types on a menu dedicated to this type of liquor. High-quality margaritas are a must here, along with the famous avocado fries. Healthy eating enthusiasts can replace rice with quinoa on the side of every meal. From 2 to 7 p.m., patrons can take advantage of the Fiesta Hour, with specials on margaritas, well drinks, wine, sangria and several menu items.

Tequilas

1613 E. 7th Ave.
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 241-9555
www.tequilasybor.comWith an open-air bar in the middle of Ybor City, directly on 7th Avenue, and some unique decorations, we can't imagine a better location to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than Tequilas. Live music, some delicious Mexican specialties to eat and a recent change of ownership give Tequilas lots of promise for the future. While the food has received mixed reviews, the drinks seem relatively consistent with critical acclaim for the margaritas. In terms of food, the burritos are the main attraction. What's more, vegan and vegetarian friends will find options available to them with their own section of the menu.

Related: Best Tacos in Tampa Bay

Cartinas Cocina Y Galeria

2402 S. Macdill Ave.
Tampa, FL 33629
(813) 251-4604
www.catrinascocinaygaleria.comEqually reputed for its food, Catrinas offers a lively ambiance for a festive Cinco de Mayo. You'll find the walls covered in skulls and folk art imported from Mexico. The drink menu boasts a lengthy selection of beers, tequilas and margaritas, all at affordable prices. For instance, the El Niño margarita makes an ideal refreshment, and at $5, the price can't be beat. The frozen tamarindo margarita is also worth a try. In terms of food, the shrimp ceviche, the cochinita pibil and the flan de coco dessert all get rave reviews. What's more, on Friday nights, a live mariachi band makes the rounds of the restaurant.

Urban Cantina

200 E. Madison St.
Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 221-8226
www.urbancantina.comDespite its humble size, Urban Cantina serves up quite a delicious assortment of Mexican favorites, along with some inventive original options. Taco classicists will enjoy the chicken mole, sense a bit of creativity with the fish tacos and marvel at the pork and pineapple variety. Authentic Mexican music brings an ambiance direct from south of the border. The margaritas come strong, so it only takes one or two to start feeling a buzz. Plus, Urban Cantina also boasts a Taco Tuesday deal, with $2 tacos and Coronas.

Red Mesa Cantina

128 3rd St. S..
St. Pete, FL 33701
(727) 896-8226
www.redmesacantina.com

With Mexican cuisine at its heart, Red Mesa Cantina blends Latin and Caribbean kitchen traditions to create a menu of exquisite ceviches, tacos, and small plate classics that deliver bold, fresh flavors. An award winning, word-of-mouth favorite among locals and visitors alike. Two bars, indoors and outdoors, elaborate fountain with courtyard dining, The most extensive selection of tequilas and Mezcals in the South!

Aaron Phillips has experience in marketing and journalism. Recently back to his hometown, he's excited to discover and share what Tampa has to offer. His work can be found at Examiner.com.
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