It’s Cinco de Mayo (that’s “Fifth of May” in Spanish), which commemorates the day in 1862 that the French were defeated by Mexico in its quest for independence. (Mexican Independence Day comes later in the year, Sept. 16.) Where better to celebrate than Pilsen and Little Village?
MORNING
Cafe Jumping Bean (1439 W. 18th St., 312-455-0019) is a sunny, funky space that displays the work of local artists and hosts poetry readings and live music. Despite its name, the menu here is mostly American fare — muffins and cookies, salads and sandwiches — and very reasonably priced. The cafe has Wi-Fi, so you’ll find plenty of students and harried professionals camping out with their laptops. But you can’t beat a table by the window as the perfect spot to watch people coming and going on 18th Street, the area’s main thoroughfare.
A few blocks away is the National Museum of Mexican Art (1852 W. 19th St., 312-738-1503), where visitors will find one of the biggest U.S. collections of Mexican and Mexican-American art. The museum’s permanent collection includes works from Chicagoan and printmaker Carlos Cortez (1923-2005). The Mayan textile exhibit, on display through May 27, showcases modern fabrics, photos and paintings of lush embroidery and the people who engage in this ancient art. Check out the gift shop for off-the-beaten-path Mother’s Day presents. We eyed a scrumptious book called “The Art of Chocolate” by Elaine Gonzalez.
AFTERNOON
Two Cinco de Mayo festivals happen nearby this weekend: at Plaza Garibaldi (2600 S. California Ave.) 1 to 9 p.m., and at Douglas Park (1401 S. Sacramento Drive) from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. At noon Sunday, the Cinco de Mayo parade kicks off from Cermak Road and Damen Avenue and ends at Douglas Park.
For lunch or dinner, there’s Nuevo Leon (1515 W. 18th St., 312-421-1517). For newcomers, get a little taste of everything with the combination appetizer (taco, tostada, tamale and enchilada). The restaurant offers a variety of fajitas, all of which are delectable.
Another longtime hot spot is Mi Tierra (2528 S. Kedzie Ave., 773-254-7722). We like the quesadillas with shrimp or mushrooms along with a pitcher of sangria. Other favorites include chicken with mole sauce and costilla de res, short ribs that are charbroiled. The mariachis here never fail to make you smile.
Speaking of music, end your Cinco de Mayo-themed day downtown at Mariachi Fest 2007 at Harris Theater for Music and Dance in Millennium Park (205 E. Randolph Drive, 312-334-7777). Tickets are $30-$50.
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