Cinco de Mayo is right around the corner, which is good news for those of us seeking over-sized tequila-based cocktails and queso-laden nosh with an extra fiesta-y vibe.
While there will be sundry Mexican restaurants in the area popping big tents and hosting amazing fiestas, I’m highlighting four not-so-usual suspects. Ones with a certain je n’ais c’est quoi that distinguishes them from the rest when it comes to fulfilling your Mexican snack + drink quotient.
Rio Cantina
At Rio Cantina in Riverside Village next to SRP Park, you’ll find a welcomed variety of flavorful adult bevvies ranging from the refreshingly tart Cantina Paloma to the sweet Mangoneada or Mexican Candy (watermelon) margarita.
One of my favorite shareables is Papas Locas, a heap of dirty-licious fries smothered with steak, grilled chicken, chorizo, pico, queso + sour cream. This mountain of gluttony offers the salty + savory + spicy flavor combo ideal for snacking while sipping a tequila-based cocktail.
Expect karaoke as part of the Cinco de Mayo celebration at Rio Cantina.
Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 11 to 10:30 p.m.
1049 Center Street
North Augusta, SC 29841
(803) 349-8376
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El Alazan
El Alazan, tucked into a Martinez strip mall, is one of our city’s best kept secrets. While not large enough for roving mariachis, the colorful dining area emits a strong festive vibe. My preference, however, is to sit on the smallish but breezy garden patio while sipping + dipping.
One of the highlights at El Alazan is their paloma-like cocktail served in a cantarito (little jug)–a clay cup which keeps the drink cold. The elixir within is similar to Cazuela de Tequila (Tequila casserole), a reposado based drink with splashes of citrus juices concocted in a clay pot. The douse of grapefruit soda makes it remarkably refreshing, and, of course, it stays extra chilly because of the jarrito.
El Alazan is planning to feature a DJ and drink specials as part of Thursday’s celebration. Pair your cocktails with the Alazan Dip (for 1 or 2 people) or the Mariachi Platter for a group.
Monday through Friday 11 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
3851 Evans To Locks Road, Ste 110
Martinez, Ga. 30907
(706) 922-9760
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Cantina Locale
Whether you’re rolling solo or on a date, you’ll enjoy Cantina Locale’s lounge-y sofas and a large covered patio. Thursday you can expect drink + taco specials, an outdoor bar and live music from 5 to 10 p.m. at this Daniel Village establishment.
I am a big fan of their margaritas in general, but the Ghost Pepper Marg sets itself apart from the herd. Order some tin can nachos for the table; then dive into a variety of their celebration-priced tacos.
Tuesday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
2803 Wrightsboro Rd #20B
Augusta 30909
(762) 333-8320
MORE: Dine and Dish: Taqueria El Rey
El Rey
Expect long-standing family recipes as well as contemporary renditions at El Rey in the West Town shopping center.
My fave margarita is Reyna’s, made with premium tequila, lime + lemon juices and a splash of grapefruit soda. (I think I was told it is abuelita-inspired, but that just might be the margarita talking.) Or choose to order an entire tower of margs for the table. Snack on one of their yummy shareables such as Queso Fundido or Trio Dip or choose from the taco menu that allows you to select from an adventurous list of proteins:
🌮 asada (steak)
🌮 barbacoa (“barbequed” beef)
🌮 pollo (chicken)
🌮 cachete (beef cheek)
🌮 chorizo (Mexican sausage)
🌮 lengua (beef tongue)
🌮 tripa (beef tripe)
🌮 carnitas (pork)
🌮 pastor (marinated pork with pineapple)
🌮 alambre (marinated pork with pineapple, peppers + cheese)
(They are all amazing, BTW.)
Plan to take advantage of El Rey’s drink specials during the celebration.
Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Friday 11 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Saturday 8 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.
Sunday 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
3830 Washington Road #25
Martinez, Ga. 30907
(762) 994-0483
There will be no dearth of Cinco de Mayo festivities in Augusta Thursday, and anywhere you choose is sure to please.
All of this is to say #eatdrinkbemerryrepeat, but please do so responsibly. And don’t forget to tell them nakedepicurean sent you. 💋
Ann Beth Strelec is known around town as the Naked Epicurean, sampling the finest cocktails known to Augustans. Find out about adult beverages at The Augusta Press on the first and third Friday or on Instagram @NakedEpicurean
