Papi's Tacos Taqueria Opens In Tanjong Pagar

Published - 18 June 2022, Saturday
  • Papi's Taco

Singapore’s most authentic back-alley Mexican eatery opens its second outlet in the heart of bustling Tanjong Pagar. The sister outlet of the quaint but mighty taqueria on Seah Street, Papi’s Tacos Tanjong Pagar sits larger at about 3x the size of its predecessor. Set to be alive with action and bursting with character, the casual kitchen emulates festive Mexican eateries with genuine hospitality, honest food, and a perfect setting for large group get-togethers.

A heartfelt concept from SJS Group, Papi’s Taco’s has gained popularity over the years thanks to its truly authentic central-Mexican cuisine helmed by Papi himself, Mauricio Espinoza. Executive Chef and Partner, Mauricio invites diners to enjoy a fuss-free, native Mexican menu reminiscent of his childhood.

From fulfilling tacos to lovingly prepared burritos, mouth-watering quesadillas and free-flow salsas, all dishes are handmade, featuring bona fide flavors, high-quality fresh ingredients and are prepared countertop in the show kitchen with the use of original Mexican cooking techniques. The Mexican cuisine pairs beautifully with the venue’s very own thirst-quenching craft margarita selection, extensive mezcal selection, private-label beers, and an indulgent chupitos menu.

Papi's Taco​​​​​​​

The Papi’s experience is a story of true Mexican culture as told by Mauricio Espinoza, who helms the kitchen with nostalgic recipes from his hometown in Tlaxcala, a remote state in Mexico. Mauricio fuses his Mexican heritage and over a decade of international culinary experience to bring to life a high-quality selection of Mexican flair.

His signature dish is the Tacos al Pastor, where the Spit-Roasted Pork with Housemade Corn Tortillas are roasted on a traditional spinner from Mexico with a fresh pineapple planted to add sweet and spicy flavour notes as it cooks. The now famous crowd favourite Tacos de Pescado, Fried White Dory, fresh cabbage, and smoked chipotle aioili on flour tortillas, also makes its way onto the Tanjong Pagar menu. Don't be surprised when you see some new tasty additions and large plates like Chicken & Beef fajitas, a fresh ceviche section, and a classic tres leches.

Josh and Sarissa Schwartz, Co-Founders of Papi’s Tacos says “We are both huge fans of Mexican cooking and 5 years ago saw an exciting gap in the market for a small, immersive and animated taqueria. Papi’s Tacos has successfully carved a niche over the years by introducing an authentic Mexican experience - where guests can watch the food being made in front of them.

The success of our original Papi’s Tacos outlet on Seah Street has propelled us to introduce Papi’s Tacos to different neighborhoods throughout Singapore, with Tanjong Pagar being next to launch.” In keeping with its theme, the tasteful interior is adorned with Mexican touches, incorporating rustic eye-catching décor, punchy tiles, and a hand painted mural that decorates the dining wall.

An upbeat, curated playlist of catchy Spanish tunes evolves throughout the day. From cheery folk and alternative rock tracks to swanky hip hop beats and rock & roll jams from the 50’s, Papi's Tacos pumps out an energetic soundtrack right through to the last call.

Opening times: Monday - Thursday: 5pm - 11pm Friday: 5pm - 12am Saturday & Sunday: 11am - 12am

a. 33 Tanjong Pagar, Singapore, 088456

w. papis-tacos.com

fb. www.facebook.com/papistacossg/

t. +65 9127 4922

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Arisa

  • 39 comments
  • CONTRIBUTOR
RATED 7.5 / 8

Papi’s Tacos was like a shining star on Tanjong Pagar Road, the moment they opened their second branch in this buzzy foodie district. It was a Friday night when my sister and I visited, transported to Mexico the moment we walked in. 

Rainbow lights in the background, loud hip hop music and the vibrant atmosphere. Wow the whole place was pumping! My mood was uplifted immediately, a great state of mind change if you ever want one in a second. 

Led to our table, we were served a welcome drink of Tajin (Aqua Frescas - non alcoholic), a mini version of watermelon. It was an absolute palate awakening drink - sweet from watermelon, sour from lime, spice from a Chamoy sauce, balanced by agave nectar and topped with fresh whipped cream and a gummy bear for effect! 

Antojitos (Mexican snacks) were served while we ordered our drinks. Holy Trinity, a must order item at a Mexican restaurant ~ homemade tortilla chips served with fresh tomato salsa and guacamole. Small chunks of avocado rather than a smooth paste was my preference. 

Mixed with pickled onions and coriander which really enhanced flavour and freshness. For a world-famous signature dip like guacamole, it was easy to spot good quality in details like this. Not surprised as Papi’s has been known for its authentic Mexican food since a long time. 

I chose a different Aqua Frescas, Tamarindo, to pair with my meal. It was an icy cold drink with a simple tamarind paste, tamarind syrup and agave nectar. The highlight was a sour candy ribbon on a stick which was served to go with the drink ~ I was told to have a bite of the ribbon with a sip of the drink. Fun! 

It’s such an interesting combination of tangy sweet flavours. My sister went for lime margarita shaken, rather than the usual frozen style. For those who love mangoes they have a spicy mango flavour which would be fun to try if you are into funky margaritas!

The next snack Elotes, grilled sweet corn on the cob, topped with strong punchy cotija cheese crumbs, chipotle powder, homemade Aioli, garnished with refreshing chopped coriander. It was the best company for an icy cold drink! With these funky drinks, Mexican snacks and the sensational vibe all around, I was in Mexico! Didn’t take long did it? 

We chose Aguachile de Barramundi for the ceviche starter which were soaked in the most exotic refreshing sauce made with jalapenos, radish, coriander, habanero & lime. The sophistication of layered flavours could escalate this to a fine dinning dish. 

So refreshing with the right spice kick of jalapenos and habanero. It really was a star winner, one if you are looking for an extraordinary Mexican delight apart from the usual popular items like tacos and burritos.

Mains of mushroom quesadillas, Al Pastor (pork) tacos and Asada (beef) tacos hit the table. Mushroom quesadillas were simply yummy comforting good food. The juicy mushroom and melted cheese could never go wrong. It was almost like a mini version pizza but in a light and delightful form. This could be a perfect main for kids. Apart from mushroom, there were also other fillings - chicken, beef, pork, mixed cheese to kid’s corn!

Asada Tacos made with generous grilled grass-fed beef, homemade verde salsa, pickled and red onions where Al Pastor tacos were served with marinated pork shoulder inMexican spice, grilled pineapple, red onions, coriander and Guajillo sauce. 

Different Taco flavours at Papi’s came in different homemade sauces and garnish created for different meats. Specifically chosen to ensure a harmonised combination of flavours which would pop in your mouth like no other tacos would. One great standout for Papi’s Tacos! 

On top of these scrumptious Mexican treats I just have to brag about the homemade habanero sauce! If you love spicy food this is a whole new level and dimension of spice we are talking about. It really blew my mind! I was on fire but absolutely happy and…….. couldn’t stop. I could not stop despite the level of heat which was burning my mouth out. A glorious place to be. You must try it cautiously with a tiny drop first just in case you can’t handle it. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!

Last but not least, we ended our wonderful meal with Tres Leches ~ homemade 3 milk cake with mixed berries. A Mexican version of sponge cake although the texture was very moist and dense. Not surprising as it was soaked in three kinds of milk – evaporated milk, condensed milk and heavy cream. 

Sounds like heaven doesn’t it? The texture was also a bit like bread pudding but not so buttery. It certainly contained all the elements for a sweet end to heavy flavoured Mexican treats. 

The first Papi’s Tacos on Seah street was opened in 2018. A tiny stall with a few counter and outdoor seats only, it catered mostly for takeaway orders. Celebrating its success through Covid they decided to open a bigger branch with many more indoor and outdoor seats for dining-in customers. What exciting news for Papi’s Tacos patrons! 

Keeping most of its popular choices on the original menu at Seah street, a few more additions catering for vegans and vegetarians can be found at the Tanjong Pagar branch. The first impossible taco by Papi’s was launched, with plant-based meat, guacamole, homemade tomato salsa, lettuce, coriander and guajillo hot sauce in a corn tortilla. There’s also a “cheat on meat” burrito with the same plant based ingredient. 

Upon leaving Papi’s that night my sister and I decided to host a Mexican party at home so we contacted the manager for some take away items a week later. The party was a great success, we had beef fajitas, “the Gringo” chicken burritos, more quesadillas and refreshing cactus salad! All condiments were generously provided with of course, the special habanero sauce creating some sparks over dinner, just the way I liked it. 

I realised many people in Singapore are fond of Mexican food because it symbolises fun food and a great vibe but not many know where to find a real authentic Mexican restaurant. Papi’s Tacos is absolutely the one I would recommend. 

As a first resort, I would recommend getting a table for dine in, just to experience the fun Mexican atmosphere and vibe hard to reach elsewhere! I guarantee you will fall in love with Papi’s Tacos and get hooked like I did.

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