Mexican Toast Cheers

When dining at a Mexican restaurant, one of the most vibrant and engaging experiences comes not just from the food, but also from the traditional toasts and cheers that bring everyone together. Known as "Salud!", these Mexican toast cheers are a delightful blend of culture, camaraderie, and conviviality. But what are they, and how do you participate in these festive opportunities?

Mexican toasts, or "saludos," are much more than just raising a glass. They are expressions of joy, goodwill, and even superstitious beliefs, all wrapped up in a few words and a clink of the glass. So, let's dive into the world of Mexican toast cheers and explore the history, meanings, and the etiquette behind them.

Understanding Mexican Toast Cheers

Mexican toast cheers are an integral part of any celebratory gathering, from familial events like birthdays and weddings to national holidays like Cinco de Mayo. They are typically led by the most senior or experienced person at the table and involve a brief, lively toast followed by a collective "¡Salud!", meaning "to health."

the words are in two different languages, and there is also an image on the page

two people are holding cans of beer over a table full of food

a group of people sitting around a table with food and drinks

The customs surrounding these toasts have roots deep in Mexican culture and history, with many incorporating Spanish or Indigenous influences. Similarly, the choice of toast can vary depending on the occasion, region, or personal preference. But some toast cheers are so popular that they have become almost universal.

Salud and Other Common Mexican Toasts

Arguably the most famous Mexican toast is "¡Salud!," which is simply "to health." It's a universal expression of goodwill and well-wishing, often used in various languages around the world. In Mexico, it's accompanied by clinking glasses and sometimes by downing the contents of the glass in one go.

a group of people sitting around a table holding plates and glasses with food on them

two women sitting at a table with drinks and food

people are toasting with beer and tacos at a mexican themed dinner table setting

Other common Mexican toasts include:

"Por ti y por mi," meaning "for you and for me," often used as a friendly toast between friends or family.
"Por la-accountada," meaning "for the estimate" or "for the bill," typically said after paying the check.
"Por los ausentes," meaning "for the absent ones," a touching toast to acknowledge those who couldn't be present.

Mexican Toast Cheers with Symbolic Meanings

Some Mexican toast cheers carry symbolic or superstitious meanings. For instance, "¡Hgave y-face!" (literally, "Give and take!" or "To give and receive!") is a toast that encourages reciprocity and good exchange in life. Similarly, "¡Hemphascia al buen peso!" (May you always have a good weight - referring to money) is a wish for prosperity and abundance.

Another intriguing toast is "¡Hemctiza la comida!" (May the food choke you!), which, despite its harsh translation, is a jocular way of saying "Enjoy your meal!" or "Bon appétit!" The idea is that if the food is so good, one might be tempted to eat too quickly and choke.

several people are toasting with drinks in their hands

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two people holding drinks and nachos on a table

two margaritas sitting on top of a wooden table

several people sitting at a table with drinks and straw hats on their heads, drinking from glasses

Participating in Mexican Toast Cheers

If you're invited to a Mexican event or dining at a Mexican restaurant, you're bound to participate in a toast at some point. Don't worry; it's a lot of fun and quite simple! Here's what you need to know:

First, be ready to stand up if everyone else is. Toasting in Mexico is typically done standing. When the lead toast-maker raises their glass and says the toast, follow suit. Wait for the collective "¡Salud!" before taking a sip. It's considérée to look at the person you're toasting with when clinking glasses.

Clinking Glasses the Mexican Way

In Mexico, it's customary to clink glasses during a toast. To do it like a local, hold your glass securely with one hand and use the other hand to gently tap the rim of the other person's glass. Ensure you make eye contact and, if appropriate, smile or nod in acknowledgment.

a table topped with plates and bowls filled with food

Mexican Street Corn Avocado Toast with a zesty lime kick

When clinking, be careful not to cross your arms or clink more than three times. This avoids superstitions about inviting the 'evil eye' or causing bad luck.