The Fifth of May or Cinco de Mayo (in Spanish) is the day set aside for an annual celebration all over the world. The day marks a holiday when all Hispanics around the world, particularly in Mexico, observe the commemoration of the Mexican Army and its memorable victory over the French Empire forces at the famous Puebla Battle on 5th of May, 1862. The Mexicans won this battle under the competent leadership of General Ignacio Zaragoza.

In 1862, Mexico was suffering a French invasion at the hands of the army of Emperor Napoleon III. The Mexican resistance wasn’t in any way equipped to resist, but on the 5th of May (cinco de mayo), a military miracle happened: a small, untrained Mexican brigade led by General Ignacio Zaragoza defeated the French. A wave of pride washed over Mexico and the then President, Benito Juarez declared Cinco de Mayo a national holiday.

If you have a taste for corn flour, beans and guacamole, your appetite for Mexican food won’t be disappointed in London. Despite British food’s bad reputation (unfounded, we may add, if you know where to look…), London is a veritable culinary destination. Thanks to its international vibe, you will find real, authentic food from all over the world in London. And in the last few years, the options for both traditional and more modern Mexican fare have multiplied.

20 expressions that only Mexicans can understand

1. When Mexicans say “ahorita mismo” which translates to “right now” they mean sometime in the upcoming years.

2. Mexicans do not flirt they “throw the dog at you” (te tiran el perro).

3. When Mexicans say “the chahuiztle is upon us”, they mean things are going from bad to worse. (ya nos cargó el chahuistle)

4. Mexicans do not tie their shoelaces; they tie their “agujetas”.

5. When Mexicans feel lazy and don´t do anything they say: “they stayed expelling the egg”.

6. For Mexicans, posh or snob people are “strawberries”.