If you’re wondering where you should spend your Monday to celebrate Cinco De Mayo, have no fear! Norman has plenty of great spots both steeped in the town’s tradition and new restaurants to give your first try.

Here are the five best spots to grab some authentic Mexican food while you’re enjoying a tasty margarita.

Tarahumara’s Méxican Cafe & Cantina

Named for the Rarámuri people (also known as Tarahuma) who were indigenous to the land in Mexico known as Chihuahua, Tarahumara’s Méxican Cafe & Cantina has been a staple of Norman since 2001. This family-owned business has created cuisines based on authentic Mexican recipes and is known for their excellent and quick service.

The restaurant is perfect for a couple or a large group. The patio area has been renovated and expanded in recent years. Don’t worry about rain because the patio is also enclosed and able to keep patrons dry as they enjoy their food and drinks. 

Try some of their tamales, carne asada tacos or famous fajita plates. The walls are also surrounded with TVs in case you want to enjoy food and drinks while catching an NBA playoff game.

“Tarahumara’s has been recommended to me so many times and after finally stopping by I totally understand why. Great food, great service, and great drinks.” - Jackie, @adventuresinoklahoma

Rosa Mezcal Mexican Grill & Cantina

One of the city’s newer restaurants is Rosa Mezcal Mexican Grill & Cantina that fits nicely on Norman’s Main Street.

This is the spot for handcrafted, creative and gorgeous cocktails. For Cinco De Mayo, Rosa Mezcal will offer drink specials and have a DJ on hand performing to add to the party atmosphere. 

Rosa Mezcal also offers an all-week brunch menu from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Monday through Friday (starts at 10 a.m. on the weekend). Oklahoma influencer Tiffany (@tiffanyinokc) called it the “best brunch spot in Norman.” In addition to their unique cocktails, their desserts deserve their own mention – especially the Marzipan French Toast with house-made milk bread.

Casa Herrera Bar & Grill

Casa Herrera Bar & Grill invites patrons to check out the east side of Norman with margarita specials and tequila shots on Cinco De Mayo. The space is large and perfect for large groups or parties.

Be sure to try their popular Casa Herrera sampler, a Mexican fiesta of appetizers all on one plate, or their grilled meats and vegetables plate – the Molcajete De La Casa. If you enjoy the simple life, their shrimp tacos always leave customers full and satisfied.

1942 Tacos & Tequila

If you want to spend time shopping and exploring the University North Park area before celebrating Cinco De Mayo, this brand new Mexican restaurant will take care of you.

Located off 24th Ave. NW in Norman, 1942 Tacos & Tequila, which opened February 2025, offers an incredible house margarita as well a cuisine that blends tradition with creativity. Seriously, the cucumber margarita is perfect to relax with after a Monday at the office.

On Monday, they will be celebrating the Battle of Puebla – which is why Cinco De Mayo is celebrated in Mexico – with their Battle of Puebla Fiesta Del 4 De Mayo event, with a special on margaritas for two for $10. Their drinks are as colorful as a rainbow, and probably as tasty, too. 

Volcano’s Mexican Food

Another traditional Norman Mexican restaurant is Volcano’s Mexican Food located on Lindsey St. near Interstate-35. If you’re wanting to explore the campus at the University of Oklahoma and want to enjoy a margarita or two before and/or after, Volcano’s will take care of you (just remember to make good decisions and not drink and drive!).

The quesabirrias and the Mexican pineapple fajitas (carne asada, grilled chicken and shrimp with cheese) are some of the heavy hitters on the menu. Don't forget to wash it down with a refreshing Mexican coke, or if you're on the sweeter side -- a Horchata (frozen mug with ice, milk, rice, and cinnamon seasoning).

Volcano’s offers a “friendly and casual dining experience with an authentic and robust menu” using a “distinct blend of spices, seasonings and vibrant colors to create wonderful taste & beautiful presentation.” The portion sizes lean on the heavier side, so if you’re wanting to soak up those margaritas, this is a great spot to check out. 

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