5 Cinco De Mayo Restaurant Promotions

Cinco de Mayo is an annual American celebration of Mexican culture, food and the 1862 victory by Mexican troops at the Battle of Puebla. The holiday has grown in the US since the 1980s as more restaurants and beer companies began to promote the day, making it a popular occasion for dining out as well.

Many Mexican restaurants are packed with diners looking for delicious dishes and drinks to celebrate. But just because your restaurant isn’t a Mexican-themed place, it doesn’t mean you can’t take advantage of the holiday. Here are some creative Cinco de Mayo restaurant promotions to bring customers to your establishment.

1. Create Cinco de Mayo Menu Ideas

Is there a better way to celebrate the holiday than to offer a special? There are plenty of places people can go for tacos and nachos, so try to offer something outside of the norm. For instance, consider making authentic dishes like tostadas or tinga. Whatever you do, dig a little deeper to offer something people won’t get anywhere but your establishment.

2. Cinco, Cinco, Cinco

Cinco de Mayo restaurant deals are common at most places. But why not add a little extra to your holiday promotion by tying the number five into your deals? Try some of the following ideas, and start promoting early:

• Offer special items for $5


• Sell appetizers or drinks in multiples of five


• Offer a flight of five beers or margarita flavors

3. Make a Margarita to Remember

Patrons on Cinco de Mayo are going to expect margaritas, and every establishment will offer them. Differentiate yourself from others by creating a special, one-of-a-kind margarita for the day. Experiment and try exotic flavors that will be unique to your location. As mentioned above, offer a flight so customers can get a taste of what you have to offer.

4. Bring in Some Entertainment 

Diners are looking for an experience, so make sure to offer one. Bring in a mariachi band or DJ to play festive music for guests. How about having a piñata for the kids? Little touches like these can set your restaurant apart from others in your area.

5. Take It Outside 

By this time of year, the weather is starting to get nice and customers will want some fresh air. Cinco de Mayo can help your restaurant enjoy the warmer weather by bringing the celebration outside. Here are a few ways you can show everyone that you’re celebrating:

• If your location is in a high-foot traffic area you can offer easy-to-eat samples or tapas out on the patio


• Show passersby that you’re celebrating the day by festively decorating your patio


• Display all the specials we’ve talked about outside to entice diners

Whatever Cinco de Mayo specials your restaurant offers, make sure to include all the info on social media. That means you should post captivating pictures and use the proper hashtags. Hopefully, these tips will help your restaurant bring in guests this year and for many more years to come.

Happy Cinco de Mayo!