Cinco de Mayo, America’s favorite holiday to celebrate that doesn’t have to do with America. Or does it? 

 

No, it’s not Mexican Independence day (that’s in September). Cinco de Mayo is actually a celebration in remembrance of a 1862 military victory at the Battle of Puebla, where an out-gunned, largely indigenous Mexican fighting force defeated the French. Since then, it’s become a celebration of Mexican-American culture (and an excuse to go to happy hour) that the country has fully embraced!

 

So, this begs the question, what should we be drinking on Cinco de Mayo? Here are a few of our favorite tequila drinks to order at your local Mexican joint!

 

 

Margarita

Nothing says “Happy Cinco de Mayo” like a margarita on a patio, and generally speaking, one of our favorites for spring. This is one of the world’s most popular cocktails, so definitely one to have in your mixology arsenal. Here’s our recipe:

 

  • Salt or sugar the rim of your glass, and fill it with ice.
  • Mix 1.5 ounces of tequila, an ounce of orange liqueur and some lime juice in a shaker.  
  • Strain into your glass and enjoy!

 

 

Paloma

Looking for something a little more pink? A Paloma is your best bet. A classic tequila drink, it’s the perfect mix of sweet and citrus. Here’s how it’s made:

 

  • In your shaker with ice, mix 2 ounces of tequila, 2 ounces of grapefruit juice, an ounce of lime juice, and a half shot of agave syrup.
  • Pour into a tall glass with ice
  • Top with 2 shots of club soda. 

 

 

 

Tommy’s Margarita

A margarita-lover’s favorite margarita (and one of our favorite contemporary cocktails), this sweeter version is extra refreshing and has become a modern classic. Plus, only three ingredients. Check it out:

 

  • Fill a shaker with ice, 2 ounces of blanco tequila, 1 ounce lime juice, and 1/2 ounce agave syrup.
  • Shake until the shaker gets a bit frosty.
  • Strain into your salt-rimmed glass.

 

 

Tequila Manhattan

Imagine the classic cocktail but with the whiskey swapped for your favorite Mexican libation. That’s exactly how you get the tequila manhattan. If you’re not feeling a drink that’s as sweet as some of the others on this list, give this one a shot:



  • Add 2 ounces of tequila, 1 ounce vermouth, and 2 dashes of bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until combined.
  • Strain into your glass.
  • Add your garnish of choice, and enjoy!

 

 
Ranch Water 

A drink with true Mexican-American roots, ranch water became popular in Texas thanks to its uncanny ability to help the locals beat the hot summer sun. It’s simple, refreshing, and a can’t miss for tequila lovers. Here’s how to make it:

 

  • In a tall glass, mix 1 shot of blanco tequila with a half ounce of fresh lime juice. 
  • Add 6 ounces of sparkling water (most recipes call for Topo Chico).
  • Add a splash of orange liqueur for extra citrus, or more traditionally, don’t.
  • Top with a lime wedge and enjoy.

 

Have a favorite tequila drink that we forgot about? Let us know in the comments and we’ll be sure to give it a try!