Cinco de Mayo  is Monday, May 5. It commemorates the Mexican army’s victory over French forces at the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. it has evolved into a broader celebration of Mexican culture and heritage, particularly in the U.S., where it has become a commercial holiday.  Cinco de Mayo is celebrated more in the U.S. than in Mexico, according to AI Overview on Google Search.

On Cinco de Mayo, people typically enjoy a variety of authentic Mexican dishes, including tacos, tamales, mole, and enchiladas, along with popular drinks like margaritas. Other popular Cinco de Mayo dishes and beverages include flautas, sopes, enchiladas, quesadillas, coconut flan, and Mexican lime icebox cake. Some support Mexican-owned businesses on Cinco de Mayo.

Katie Davis is the owner of Small Cuts and Curls at 803 Meeting Street in West Columbia. She makes it a point to dine at a Mexican Restaurant to celebrate Cinco de Mayo.

“My favorite Mexican restaurant is La Fogata,” she said. It’s at 2805 Sunset Boulevard in West Columbia. The restaurant has posted a video on its Facebook page inviting everyone in to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. Click here to see video

In addition to visiting her favorite Mexican restaurant on Cinco de Mayo, Katie has several inflatables in front of Small Cuts and Curls that commemorate Cinco de Mayo. She said since her clientele includes small children, who may be scared of getting a haircut. The colorful, cartoon-like inflatables help calm them down so maybe they won’t be scared during their haircut. 

West Columbia Mayor Tem Miles said there is a significant Hispanic business presence in West Columbia. 

“In West Columbia, we are proud to celebrate the meaningful contributions of our Hispanic community—not just today, but every day,” said Miles. “Hispanic-owned businesses play a vital role in every sector of our local economy, from retail and restaurants to construction and professional services. Their influence is deeply woven into the fabric of our city, and we are grateful for the rich culture, entrepreneurship, and diversity they bring to West Columbia.”

Casa Oaxaca is at 2410 Augusta Rd – Suite H, in West Columbia’s Danwood Shopping Center. It’s owned by said Artemio Borinios, with his wife, Elana Gonzales. It is another option for enjoying authentic Mexican food on Cinco de Mayo.

A specialty at Casa Oaxaca is the Tlayuda. It is an Oaxacan dish that is handmade with a large, thin, crunchy, partly fried, or toasted tortilla. Tlayuda is covered with a spread of refried beans, lettuce or cabbage, avocado, chicken, beef tenderloin or pork, Oaxaca cheese, and salsa. Artemio said it is like a large pizza, but with the toppings above.

Casa Oaxaca is also known for its mole, both red and black. Mole is the combination of ingredients such as chile rojo and negro, chile mulato, chile pasilla, burnt tortilla, peanuts, raisins, pumpkin seeds, and chocolate, making the dish unique.

Some other great Mexican dining options in West Columbia include San Jose Mexican Restaurant at 121 Dreher Road; Salsarita’s Fresh Mexican Grill at 2507 Sunset Boulevard; and Tacos Locos and Mexican Grill at 103 North 12th Street.

For something sweet, stop by Panaderia Odalys at 103 North 12th Street, Suite A, or treat yourself at Manny’s Shaved Ice N’ Snacks at 1228 Augusta Road.

These are just a few of the many Hispanic-owned businesses and eateries in our city. With Cinco de Mayo upon us, it’s the perfect time to explore all that West Columbia has to offer, support local entrepreneurs, and celebrate the rich heritage and culture of our Mexican community.