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Papi Tacos & Churros
$ · Mexican, Tacos, Burritos

313 Wilshire Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90401 (424) 238-5029
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ZipPicks Awards

Best Happy Hour Tacos in Santa Monica Best Burritos in Santa Monica Best Mexican in Santa Monica Best Cheap Eats Tacos in Santa Monica

Vibe Check this spot

Food Quality 5
Service 5
Atmosphere 5
Value 5
Consistency 5
Cultural Relevance 5

0 / 5 selected

Master Critic Review

Papi Tacos & Churros 8.5
Santa Monica
Vibes: Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance Quick Bites Champions Family Friendly Favorites
Specializing in 16-hour cooked beef birria and wood-fired pollo asado, this street food specialist rose from the ashes of a fire to become a local phenomenon. Their made-from-scratch churros and rich consommé create an authentic Tijuana-style experience steps from the pier.
Must-Try Dishes: Birria Quesataco, OG Plate Combo, Dulce de Leche Churros
Scores:
Value: 8.8 Service: 7.6 Consistency: 8.4 Food Quality: 8.9 Atmosphere: 7.3 Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Authentic birria with 16-hour slow-cooked beef and handmade churros
Who should go: Street food lovers and birria enthusiasts
When to visit: Lunch for shorter lines than dinner rush
What to order: OG Plate, birria quesataco, churros
Insider tip: Order the OG Plate for best variety and value
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street meters $2/hour or paid lots $10-15, very limited after 5pm near pier
Dress code: Come as you are - totally casual, beachwear welcome
Noise level: Lively street food vibe - easy conversation at outdoor tables
Weekend wait: 20-30 min line during peak hours 6-8pm
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min wait, moves quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - bean & cheese tacos, veggie quesadillas, churros
Vegan options: Very limited - can modify bean tacos without cheese
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available, but cross-contamination likely
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Perfect for casual daytime dates - affordable, no pressure, and you can walk to the pier after. Skip for evening dates if you want something more intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? No reservations - it's order at counter with first-come seating. Best strategy is avoiding 12-1pm lunch and 6-8pm dinner rushes.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - kids love the churros, portions are shareable, and the casual outdoor setting means no stress about noise. High chairs available.
Best For
Better for: Most authentic birria in Santa Monica with that rich 16-hour consommé you won't find at trendy spots
Consider Alternatives If: You want table service, craft cocktails, or a see-and-be-seen scene - head to Tallula's or Cha Cha Chicken instead

Hours

Monday11am - 10pm
Tuesday11am - 10pm
Wednesday11am - 10pm
Thursday11am - 10pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 10pm