Cinco de Mayo might be a modest holiday in Mexico, but in the United States it’s become a full-on celebration of Mexican food, culture and community complete with tacos, tequila and packed dining rooms.
This year, there’s added wonder, as May 5 happens to be Taco Tuesday. The timing couldn’t be better to explore what Stark County’s Mexican restaurants have to offer.
While often mistaken for Mexico’s Independence Day, Cinco de Mayo actually commemorates the Battle of Puebla in 1862. In the United States, it has evolved into a broader celebration of Mexican heritage and a perfect excuse to support local restaurants.
Here’s a look at Stark County spots offering food and drink specials for the occasion.
Agavero Bar and Grill
2484 Lincoln Way E in Massillon; 330-481-4258
A festive bar and grill perfect for celebratory cocktails and hearty entrees. The eatery is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday; 11:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday; and 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.
Blue Habanero
2234 Tuscarawas St. W in Canton; 234-214-8363
You can enjoy bold flavors, fresh ingredients and modern takes on traditional fare as you also enjoy patio dining with your margarita. It is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.
Cantina Jalisco Mexican Bar & Grill
450 W. State St. in Alliance; 330-596-1105
Enjoy a variety of menu options including street corn, Baja tacos, burritos, taco salads and quesadillas. The eatery is open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday; 12 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday; 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday.
Don Pancho’s Tex-Mex Restaurant
2105 W. State St. in Alliance; 330-823-4390
Features stuffed jalapenos, Frito pie, Tex-Mex nachos and a large selection of enchiladas, burritos and quesadillas. Restaurant hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday; 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
El Campesino
3520 Cleveland Ave. NW in Canton, 330-493-9801; and 4048 Lincoln Way E in Perry Township, 330-477-8731
Known for its large portions, affordable prices and reliable go-to dishes. Hours are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday; 12 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Saturday; and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.
El Rincon
3212 Tuscarawas St. W in Canton, 330-493-9801; 720 S. Main St. in North Canton, 330-497-2229; and 5562 Wales Ave. NW in Jackson Township, 330-833-6000.
A relaxed place with a solid margarita menu and crowd-pleasing Tex-Mex selections. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.
Fiesta Acapulco
5685 Dressler Road NW in Jackson Township; 330-526-8379
A bright, colorful spot with a menu full of Mexican staples and friendly service. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays
Francisco’s Cantina Restaurant
6041 Whipple Ave. NW in Jackson Township; 330-526-8740
A local favorite known for its vibrant atmosphere and classic Mexican dishes made from scratch. Hours are 11:30 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 11:30 to 10 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays.
La Loma
4794 Dressler Road NW in Jackson Township; 330-956-4363
A cozy, family-run restaurant serving up authentic recipes and warm hospitality. Eatery is open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Mondays through Sundays.
La Sirena Mexican Grill
425 Tuscarawas St. E in Canton; 234-214-8611
Family-run downtown Canton restaurant offering authentic Mexican cuisine and seafood-inspired dishes. Hours are 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Friday through Sunday.
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
121 Lincoln Way W in Perry Township; 330-830-1300
Serves authentic Mexican food with a family touch. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays.
Margaritas Mexican Restaurant
2105 Locust St S in Canal Fulton; 330-854-2570
Same family ownership as the Perry Township restaurant, but hours vary slightly. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Sundays.
Que Pasa
101 N. Market St. in Minerva; 330-868-2221
Select from creative burritos and sizzling skillets, or sip on some margaritas while you review the menu. Open 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays.
Senor Pancho’s
1408 N. Chapel St. in Louisville; 330-875-4617
Featuring Mexican cuisine with specials on margaritas and food for Cinco de Mayo. Hours 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays.
Tekila Mexican Restaurant
2749 Cleveland Ave. NW in Canton; 234-214-8853
Generous portions derived from family recipes. Even its margaritas are made using its own special recipe mix. Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sundays.
Tlaquepaque
4460 Dressler Road NW in Jackson Township, 330-649-9109; 2682 Easton St. NE in Plain Township, 234-458-8008; and 4262 Portage St. NW in Jackson Township, 330-526-6683.
With multiple locations and a loyal fan base, it’s a go-to for classic dishes and fast service. Hours for all are 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays.
Bev Shaffer, Food & Drink reporter for The Canton Repository, can be reached at bshaffer@usatodayco.com or 330-580-8318.
This article originally appeared on The Repository: Cinco de Mayo meets Taco Tuesday. Celebrate at Stark County spots
Reporting by Bev Shaffer, Canton Repository / The Repository
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