I’m not even going to try to park on Main Street (or anywhere in downtown Huntington Beach) on Cinco de Mayo. However, I will be taking Uber that night with a few of my cousins to Avila’s El Ranchito.
My cousins are from New Jersey, and love exploring Mexican food places.
“It’s the busiest day of the year there,” said cousin Ray, who remembers talking to our server when last time he was here for Cinco de Mayo.
Yes, I know it’s going to be packed, but worth it. Besides the incredible food, on Saturday, May 5, there will be giveaways, a photo booth, a mariachi band from 3 to 5 p.m., and specials on margaritas. The Grande Margarita is 16 ounces. Enough to sip, and sip some more.
Avila’s El Ranchito is at 318 Main St. near Pacific Coast Highway. Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday; 9 a.m.- 9 p.m. Sunday. Information: avilaselranchito.com or 714-960-9696.
Mr. Kegs
If you’re having a Cinco de Mayo party, what beer will you be serving?
Mr. Kegs is offering a special in May for half a keg of Montejo. It’s $135.95. Have another cerveza in mind? Just ask. Local delivery is available.
While you’re there, check out the party supplies.
Mr. Kegs is in Huntington Beach at 5914 Warner Ave. near Springdale Street. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday; 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m.Sunday. Information: 714-861-7270.
Treasures by the Sea
Some of my buddies will be happily occupied on May 5 at Treasures by the Sea, presented by the Assistance League of Huntington Beach. It’s a charity event at the Hyatt Regency Huntington Beach Resort & Spa, at 21500 Pacific Coast Highway, near Main Street.
A silent auction, live auction, opportunity prizes and luncheon await guests. It’s $125 for a general ticket. Ask about sponsorship for your business.
The Assistance League of Huntington Beach runs Operation School Bell, through which more than 2,500 children in need receive much needed clothing each year. Information: 501auctions.com/treasuresbythesea2018
Sabrosada
The visiting cousins are going to be full after I take them out to Avila’s El Ranchito … but I have a surprise for them. They’ll also be visiting two Fountain Valley restaurants while in sunny Southern California.
Sabrosada (once Alerto’s) serves carne asada fries. I guarantee the cousins haven’t experienced this foodie miracle. What’s on top of these delicious fries? Carne asada, cheddar cheese, chopped onion, jalepenos, beans, pico de gallo, cilantro, and a generous drizzle of sour cream. A half order is $7.58 and a full order is $9.50.
Sabrosada is in Fountain Valley at 17225 Brookhurst St. near Warner Avenue. Hours: 6 a.m.-2 a.m. Sunday through Thursday; 6 a.m.-3 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Information: sabrosada.com or 714-593-0069.
Tio Flaco’s Tacos
The last place we’re going on our Mexican feast tour is Tio Flaco’s Tacos for Taco Tuesday. Chicken and carnitas tacos are $1 each; al pastor (pork) and carne asada are $1.39. Tortillas are continuously being made, and the aroma is intoxicating.
They’re street-taco size, made with fresh tortillas and garnished with cilantro, onion and guacamole. Delicious. Sit inside or outside and enjoy.
Tio Flaco’s Tacos is in Fountain Valley at 18959 Magnolia St. near Garfield Avenue. Hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. Information: tioflacos.com or 714-593-9000.