WHY WE REALLY CELEBRATE CINCO DE MAYO
Everyone loves to celebrate Cinco de Mayo – the great food – the margaritas – the music – the dancing – BUT – do we really know WHY we are celebrating?
Many – us included - thought we were celebrating Mexican Independence.
ACTUALLY, ON May 5, Cinco de Mayo commemorates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the Second French Empire at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862, led by General Ignacio Zaragoza.
Even though his army was outnumbered in the battle which lasted from daybreak to sunset, General Zaragoza realized the superior French forces were losing because his troops were utilizing the knowledge of their homeland terrain to defeat the invaders.
The victory that day became a symbol of Mexican resistance.
In 2005, US Congress passed a resolution recognizing the historical significance of this holiday and encouraged a celebration of Mexican culture through food, drink, dance and music.
And in our case – shopping!
We started at the fabulous Colores Mexicanos
605 Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60601
coloresmexicanoschicago.com
What a treasure trove!
A beautiful collection of textiles carefully curated to bring all the best in exquisitely handmade garments and tablescapes.
Yes, Sherrill could not resist purchasing a “work of art” apron, even though she only cooks on holidays and a few birthdays in-between
Debi’s “had to have” was a piece of hand crafted jewelry - truly, everything in the store tempted us!
Packages in hand, we headed to our favorite regional Mexican restaurant, Tzuco by Chef Carlos Gaytán, who became the first Mexican Chef to receive a Michelin star in 2013 and 2014.
TZUCO
720 North State St., Chicago, IL 60654
tzuco.com
We had loved dinner there so this time we tried their brunch served only on Saturday and Sunday
SUBLIME! Every dish has an unexpected fabulously yummy taste twist.
Guacamole so smooth it melted in our mouths.
The presentation of the Shrimp Ceviche was only surpassed by its taste.
Lobster Taco which was not a taco in any way we have ever experienced a taco -anywhere!
And the margarita’s! We wanted to try a new twist ourselves so ordered a float of amaretto on top – Sherrill’s with salt – Debi’s without. Both yummy!
We agree with Congress – May 5 - EVERYONE should experience the culture of Mexico.