Celebrate your Cinco de Mayo in Syracuse the best way that we know how- by enjoying authentic Mexican food! We've rounded up the best 'Cuse spots to get your enchilada, quesadilla and margarita fixes!

The Mission 

Head to The Mission for a combination of fresh, homemade Mexican, Southwestern, and South American specialties featuring Latino ingredients. The Mission is located in a former church which had deep Syracuse history roots by playing a role in the underground railroad making it a special place to dine.

Alto Cinco & Otro Cinco

Alto Cinco and it’s Downtown counterpart named Otro Cinco know how to put a unique spin on Spanish and Mexican food.  These neighborhood gems are known for signature cocktails and all around great food! People of all ages enjoy both their candlelit indoor atmospheres and al fresco dining options. Both restaurants take pride in their fresh ingredients obtained locally to produce staple dishes including homemade salsa, guacamole, beans, cornbread, soups and sauces.

XO Taco

XO Taco is new on the scene and already a hit. Described as a punk-rock taco bar, XO features hand-made tortillas, a full bar with funky cocktails, and eclectic decor. Their “instagrammable atmosphere” and family style dining makes this restaurant a Mexican food go-to.

Azteca Mexican Grill

Azteca offers authentic Mexican food at reasonable prices. Drink one of their margarita specialties while starting with complimentary chips and salsa before diving into a delicious entree. 

San Miguel Mexican Restaurante

San Miguel offers a fun atmosphere with even better food. Their chef makes everything in house including salsas and taco shells. You can find all of your favorite Mexican classics here- including specialty drinks at the bar!

Ponchito’s Taqueria

While we anxiously await the opening of Ponchito’s second location near downtown Syracuse, we’re still more than willing to venture out to their original restaurant for some Cinco de Mayo fun. At Ponchito’s you can always have your food how you like it by building your own dish making it a must-try.  

Rio Grande

Rio Grande offers a wide-range menu full of authentic Mexican food. They have something for every diner from chips and gauc to traditional dishes making it the perfect dining choice.

Papa Gallo

This restaurant brings you an appetizing menu inspired by the San Antonio Tex-Mex scene. Enjoy their Mexican cocktails or try a nacho burger. You can even hit up their food truck when it’s out on the town.  

Camino Real Mexican Restaurant II

Enjoy everything from Mexican classics to volcano plates and dishes served inside pineapples. Celebrate your Cino de Mayo or any occasion by taking advantage of their everyday lunch specials!

Special Event Alert:

Buy your tickets today for the Syracuse Taco & Margarita Festival! This bar hop/foodie fest includes stops for tacos, margaritas and live bands- all at Downtown venues. Pick up your wristband and take to the streets with other participants to bank in on exclusive ticket holder specials!