Mexico City's potent margaritas and filling Cal-Mex fare draw a young, lively crowd, many of whom show up in large, garrulous groups. Some of the offerings here include Patron Silver and Centenario.

Every day is Cinco de Mayo at El Conquistador, and although that might sound like fun in theory, in practice it has left many a formerly happy reveler with a tragically aching head and a queasy belly. Stay away from the cheap stuff; this is the place to go high-quality all the way (Don Julio or analogous).

The spirit of spring break lasts all year at Cabo Cantina, where the daily two-for-one happy hour is a long-standing West Hollywood staple. Cinco de Mayo will probably bring with it some long lines, so arrive on the early side. And stay away from Jose Cuervo; go with Patron Silver or better here.

You won't find Americanized versions of Mexican cuisine at Amaranta. Instead, you'll be treated to a variety of authentic regional specialties and the best tequila menu in all of SoCal (think Gran Centenario Leyenda Reserve Anejo --if you can swing $80 a shot, that is).

Yes, it's a slightly kitschy theme restaurant, but the food (and drinks) do not suffer. Named after the actual plant from which tequila is made, it's hard to go wrong with any of the offerings here. Try the Agavero or the Cazadores, and don't blame us if you forget what a great time you have.

Mexican street food à la Rodeo Drive. Always busy for Cinco de Mayo, but worth battling the crowds for selections like Don Julio Real Anejo, Casanoble or El Tesoro Paradisco Anejo.

Mike and Andrea Zislis, owners of the stylish Shade Hotel, have turned this Manhattan Avenue space into a lighthearted upscale Mexican joint. More than 300 different tequilas are offered here, from low-end selections to rare and muy expensive varieties.

What do ground beef-and-pickle tacos have in common with razor-thin young women in skinny jeans with nostril-length bangs? Both can be found in the penumbral glow of muted-red candlelight at Malo, Silver Lake's natty neighborhood taqueria that serves up nearly 200 types of liquid gold.

Tequila drinkers, take heed of L’Scorpion’s bite: The bar stocks more than 200 types of the stuff -- and the bartenders are quite generous when it comes to pouring it into the margaritas. Happy hour here is where it's at for those on a tequila budget: Try the Don Eduardo Reposado or the "Matador." You'll thank us later.

With the motto “Home of the Margatini,” Mexicali draws a young singles crowd looking for something a bit stronger than the average tropical blended drink. Try the aged Herradura Selecion ($26 a shot).

You want retro-Mexican? Casa Vega, which has been around for more than four decades, is as retro as it gets. Tequila shots here start at just $6, and go all the way up to $25.

Food at this vibrant establishment (brought to you by the colors green, yellow and aqua) is hearty Mexican fare loaded with spice. Keep the fire at bay with the Herradura Suprema or the Trago.

The sister restaurant of local chain the Yard House, Tequila Jack's features waterfront dining and an extensive list of premium tequilas.

A variety of specialty tequilas are on offer here, including Reserva de la Familia and Platino. But the best tequila to order up at this bar inside the Marriot Hotel (with views of Newport Beach), is the Porfidio Anejo. Trust us...it's smooth.