It’s that time of year again when restaurants roll out the red carpet for Cinco de Mayo, and 2025 is no exception. From gooey free queso to margaritas that won’t break the bank, chains across the U.S. are dishing out specials to lure in fiesta-hungry crowds. The deals are real, backed by official announcements from the brands themselves, and they’re ready to spice up your May 5 celebrations.
Chuy’s, the Tex-Mex staple, is kicking things off with a deal that’s hard to beat. On May 5, walk into any of their locations, and you can snag a side of their creamy queso for free with any entrée purchase. That’s right—no strings attached, just melty cheese to dunk your chips in. They’re also pouring $6 house margaritas and keeping the party going with $3 draft beers. The announcement came straight from Chuy’s website on April 16, so you know it’s legit.
Over at Ruby Tuesday, the vibe is equally festive. Starting May 2 and running through May 5, they’re slinging $2 mini-margaritas for those who want a quick sip without the commitment. If you’re feeling fancy, their top-shelf margaritas are going for $10 a pop. Craving something to munch on? Their quesadillas, stuffed with cheese and grilled to crispy perfection, are part of the Cinco lineup. Ruby Tuesday dropped the details in a press release on April 30, making it clear they’re ready to keep the fiesta humming all weekend.
Not to be outdone, Abuelo’s Mexican Restaurant is turning May 5 into a full-on celebration. Their official statement, posted on their site on April 29, lays it out: $5 specials all day long. We’re talking Grande Mexican Draft Beers, Frozen Mexican Flag Margaritas, La Grandeza Margaritas, Mexican Candy Shots, and even their crowd-favorite chile con queso. It’s a steal for anyone looking to toast the holiday without emptying their wallet.
Meanwhile, Del Taco’s got something for the budget crowd. On May 5, they’re offering 20% off any online or app order of $15 or more when you use the code CINCO at checkout. The deal, confirmed in a company press release on April 25, covers everything from their tacos to burritos, so you can mix and match to your heart’s content. It’s a solid option for those who want to grab a quick meal and keep the change.
The deals aren’t just about food and drink—some spots are throwing in extras to sweeten the pot. Taco Bell, per a statement on their app’s news section from April 28, is giving Rewards Members a free Cantina Chicken Taco with any purchase on May 5. It’s a small but tasty perk for loyal fans, and you don’t need to jump through hoops to claim it.
These offers are popping up as restaurants gear up for one of the busiest days of the year. Cinco de Mayo, celebrated annually on May 5, marks the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. It’s a cultural touchstone, especially in the U.S., where it’s become a day for food, music, and good times. The specials reflect that spirit, with chains betting big on drawing crowds through their doors.
No fluff, no filler—just the facts. Chuy’s free queso with entrée purchase, $6 margaritas, and $3 drafts run on May 5. Ruby Tuesday’s $2 mini-margs, $10 top-shelf margaritas, and quesadillas are available May 2 through May 5. Abuelo’s $5 specials on drinks and queso are a one-day deal on May 5. Del Taco’s 20% off orders of $15 or more with code CINCO is valid May 5. Taco Bell’s free Cantina Chicken Taco for Rewards Members hits on May 5. Check each restaurant’s website or app for full details, as some offers may vary by location.