Five Ways Restaurants Can Help Celebrate Cinco de Mayo

Culinary takeout and delivery tips bring a taste of Mexico to the at-home crowd.

We’ve waited years for Cinco de Mayo and Taco Tuesday to collide, and now this. COVID-19 economic restrictions mean consumers will celebrate at home this year, and restaurants should plan accordingly.

Gordon Food Service Culinary Specialist Keith Beane and Associate Consulting Chef Nick Gonring offer these five ways to help customers celebrate:

Dip into salsas

Chips and dip start the meal at many Mexican restaurants, so play in this space. Create different salsas with varying heat levels and encourage a tasting challenge. Suggest a virtual event with friends or encourage sharing the experience on Instagram. Add a signature touch with fresh guacamole and homemade nacho chips.

Yes, there will be tacos

Tacos are perfect for a meal kit. Package ingredients in separate containers for a customizable at-home taco bar, or prepare tacos individually and place them in slotted platters for delivery and display. Familiar Mexican cuisine also includes burritos, tamales, quesadillas and enchiladas—all easy to execute for takeout and delivery. 

Think traditional, and beyond

If your specialty is seafood, appeal with snapper Vera Cruz. Bring Oaxacan cuisine to the table with tlayuda, a pizza-like dish you can create with crisped 6-inch tortilla shells and ingredients like braised pork, smashed black beans, cilantro, avocado and melty cheese. Other approachable options include elote, mole sauces and arepas, a cornmeal cake that can be split and filled like a taco.

Don’t forget drinks

If your operation can sell adult beverages for takeout and delivery, Mexican beers like Modelo, Dos Equis and Corona are perennial favorites. Try connecting with local brewers to sell cerveza flights. Don’t overlook the margarita possibilities. Offer a selection of tequilas or create your own margarita mixer customers can buy to make their own drinks. Explore other cocktails like Michelada or Sangrita to enhance your drink offerings. 

Sweeten the deal with dessert

The fiesta isn’t complete without dessert. Churro sticks are always a hit, but you could raise the bar by creating churro waffles and providing a small bottle of chocolate sauce. Other ideas include caramel-topped flan and tres leches cake.