Review
Cinco de Mayo
Total Score
54/60
Star Rating
★★★★☆
Reviewed by
Susan and Peter Martin
One of the greatest pleasures of writing The Culinary Duo is discovering restaurants that turn an ordinary day into an unforgettable experience. Our visit to Cinco de Mayo began with nothing more than a rainy Sunday drive through St. Augustine. Looking for a place to escape the weather, we noticed a modest restaurant tucked into a shopping center. From the outside it looked like another neighborhood Mexican restaurant. Once we walked through the doors, however, we realized we had found something much more memorable. The spacious dining room, colorful décor, welcoming staff, and lively atmosphere immediately changed our expectations. When a brother and sister musical duo began performing live, the restaurant transformed into a celebration filled with laughter, applause, and dancing. It reminded us that great restaurants are remembered for the moments they create just as much as the meals they serve.
Ambiance and Décor
Cinco de Mayo captures the warmth and energy people hope to find in a neighborhood Mexican restaurant. Traditional artwork, vibrant colors, comfortable seating, and a beautiful central bar create a festive environment without feeling overwhelming. The live entertainment elevated the entire afternoon and gave the restaurant an authentic community feel. Watching guests of every age clap along with the music made the experience feel genuine rather than staged.
Menu and Drinks
The menu is extensive and offers something for nearly everyone. We began with the Queso Fundido con Chorizo, an appetizer that perfectly balanced creamy melted cheese with smoky, flavorful chorizo. It quickly earned one of our Culinary Duo Best of the Best Dish Awards because every bite demonstrated careful preparation and authentic flavor. Peter paired lunch with the La Catrina Margarita, crafted with Espolòn Tequila, Grand Marnier, blackberry syrup, fresh lime juice, and Blue Curaçao. Susan selected the Peach Margarita, a refreshing cocktail that complemented the bold flavors coming from the kitchen
Food Quality
Our entrée, the Especial Cinco de Mayo Combination Fajitas, arrived on a sizzling platter that immediately turned heads throughout the dining room. Steak, chicken, shrimp, chorizo, and a beef rib were beautifully presented, with grilled shrimp displayed on a skewer above the platter. Presentation alone would have been impressive, but the flavors matched the visual appeal. The seasoned chorizo stood out, the proteins were cooked properly, and the inclusion of melted cheese added an extra layer of richness that many restaurants have quietly abandoned. This entrée also earned a Culinary Duo Best of the Best Dish Award.
Service
Hospitality often reveals itself through the smallest gestures. Lil provided attentive, friendly service throughout our visit and never made us feel rushed. What impressed us most was the kindness shown to Apollo. Without being asked, she brought him fresh water and later surprised us with a freshly grilled plain chicken breast that had been carefully prepared and sliced into bite-sized pieces. Thoughtful moments like these create loyal guests and lasting memories.
Value and Pricing
Considering the generous portions, handcrafted cocktails, live entertainment, and attentive service, Cinco de Mayo represents excellent value. Guests receive a complete dining experience rather than simply a meal, making it an easy recommendation for both locals and visitors.
Overall Experience
What began as a rainy afternoon became one of those restaurant experiences that reminds us why we love exploring new places. Great food, memorable cocktails, live music, outstanding hospitality, and genuine care combined to create an afternoon we will remember. Restaurants that consistently deliver memorable experiences deserve recognition, and Cinco de Mayo accomplished exactly that. We left already discussing what we wanted to order on our next visit.
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