A few weeks ago I was in Puebla, Mexico. I learned some very interesting facts about Mexico including the real celebration of Cinco de Mayo. It is actually a celebration of the Battle of Puebla.

On May 5, 1862 a small group of rag tag Mexicans fought a larger army of trained French soldiers near Puebla. The French were fighting to conquer Mexico to create the Second Empire of Mexico under French Rule. However, before the day was over this smaller group of very brave and cunning Mexicans sent the French running and they saved Mexico from French rule. A year later Napoleon III sent reinforcements to Mexico and they were able to conquer the Mexicans and the Second Empire of Mexico under Maximilian I began.

Years later President Roosevelt wanted to build the bonds with our neighbors and have an opportunity to celebrate Mexican food and culture. He chose Cinco de Mayo to honor our neighbors to the south.

Today Cinco de Mayo is widely celebrated in the United States with chips and salsa and margaritas. In Mexico it is celebrated in Puebla as a victory against the French with authentic regional Mexican food of Mole', Chalupas, Flan and Hibiscus Margaritas.

Friday, May 3 through Sunday May 5, Suzette's will be celebrating the tenacity and bravery of those Soldiers of Puebla with an authentic Mole Dinner and other Specialties of Puebla prepared by Chef Alex.

Suzette