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Papito - Potrero Hill
Master Critic Reviews (8 Lists)
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.4
Neighborhood taqueria known for organic ingredients and Mexico City–style plates. Consistently strong tacos and enchiladas make it a reliable Potrero Hill staple with breezy sidewalk seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Mole enchiladas, Al pastor tacos, Fish tacos
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Organic, Mexico City–leaning menu with dependable execution.
Who should go: Locals craving classic tacos and enchiladas
When to visit: Sunny lunch or early dinner on the patio
What to order: Mole enchiladas; fish tacos; guacamole
Insider tip: Grab a sidewalk table for the best Potrero views.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the only option and can be tight during dinner hours; expect to circle the block on weekends.
Dress code: Completely casual—jeans, sneakers, and baseball caps are all normal for the neighborhood vibe.
Noise level: Moderate; lively during lunch rush but quiet enough for easy conversation outdoors.
Weekend wait: Typically 20–30 minutes during peak hours since seating is limited outside.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right up and grab a patio table.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple options like veggie tacos, chile relleno, and cheese enchiladas.
Vegan options: Limited – a few tacos or sides can be modified to be vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes – corn tortillas and several dishes are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want something low-key and authentic; it’s casual and bright, better for a laid-back meet-up than a romantic night out.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – Papito doesn’t take reservations; it’s first-come, first-served. Arrive early for outdoor tables on sunny days.
Is it kid-friendly? Very – relaxed atmosphere, quick service, and familiar dishes make it great for families with kids 5 and up.
Best For
Better for: Consistent, high-quality tacos and enchiladas at everyday prices in a neighborhood setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft cocktails, late-night hours, or a polished date-night scene.
Papito - Potrero Hill
7.7
Neighborhood Mexican spot (since 2010) serving well-executed tacos, enchiladas, and fresh salsas in a casual room with sidewalk seating. Kitchen runs into the evening, handy for a relaxed taco night on the hill.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Taco, Pescado Taco, Pollo Asado Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Organic-leaning tacos with steady execution and easygoing service.
Who should go: Casual taco night with friends or family
When to visit: Early evenings 6–8 pm for easiest seating
What to order: Carnitas; pescado; pollo asado
Insider tip: Warm nights: sidewalk tables are quickest and kid-friendly.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on the hill but can be limited at peak dinner hours; no valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and relaxed wear are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate—buzz of conversation but you can hear your table without strain.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: No wait; generally walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several taco and enchilada fillings plus sides work well for vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 taco options with veggie fillings and salsas, but cheese is common.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free; check enchiladas and specials.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual hangs than romantic dates—outdoor seating is relaxed but not intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common, though expect a short wait on busy weekend evenings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—casual vibe and sidewalk seating make it easy for families with young kids; no kids’ menu but tacos work for all ages.
Best For
Better for: Neighborhood feel and steady, organic-leaning taco execution compared to trendier downtown spots.
Skip if: If you’re seeking late-night hours past 10pm or a high-energy scene, alternatives like sports bar taquerias are better.
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.2
Neighborhood taqueria known since 2010 for organic-leaning tacos, griddled quesadillas, and a focused tequila/mezcal list. Locals come for steady execution and a casual Potrero Hill setting that works any night of the week.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas taco, Pescado taco, Pollo asado quesadilla
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Organic-focused taqueria staples with a real Potrero Hill lineage.
Who should go: Neighborhood taco fans and casual groups
When to visit: Weeknights 6–8 pm for easiest seating
What to order: Carnitas; pescado; pollo asado
Insider tip: Ask for the salsa lineup—smoky options pair well with carnitas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking in Potrero Hill; tends to fill up after 6 pm but usually manageable within a few blocks. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine—jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are possible, though it can get lively during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes for a table; peak times may stretch longer.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; easy walk-in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie tacos, quesadillas, and salads are available.
Vegan options: Limited but possible—tacos with grilled veggies or beans can be made vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—most tacos can be served on corn tortillas, which are gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It works better for a casual date than a formal one. The vibe is laid-back and friendly, not overly polished.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t required. On weekends expect a short wait at peak hours, but walk-ins are the norm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families with kids are common. High chairs are available and the casual space works for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Neighborhood comfort, steady execution, and affordable organic-leaning tacos in a relaxed setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for a trendy cocktail scene or a quiet, romantic dinner—it’s casual and lively here.
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.4
Neighborhood taqueria (since 2010) known for organic-leaning ingredients and a focused tequila/mezcal list. Tacos come well-seasoned with clean salsas, and the room works for casual groups any night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos, Pescado tacos, Pollo asado tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Organic-focused taqueria staples with a proven Potrero Hill lineage.
Who should go: Casual groups and neighborhood regulars
When to visit: Weeknights 6–8 pm for easier seating
What to order: Carnitas, pescado, pollo asado tacos
Insider tip: Ask for the full salsa lineup—smokier options flatter carnitas.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be tight after 6 pm; no valet service provided.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine—jeans and sneakers are the norm, but neat casual works best for groups.
Noise level: Moderate—buzzing with conversation but you can still hold a table chat without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes depending on group size; reservations recommended for 4+.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick seating for individuals and pairs.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian tacos, quesadillas, and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 taco fillings and sides can be made vegan by request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for a casual, neighborhood vibe with solid drinks. Not overly romantic, but lively and comfortable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights are usually fine to walk in. On weekends, especially during peak dinner hours, expect a short wait unless you book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families often bring children. Menu flexibility and a relaxed setting work well for ages 5+.
Best For
Better for: Stronger on organic ingredients and a curated tequila/mezcal list compared to nearby taquerias.
Skip if: Skip if you want ultra-budget tacos or very quiet dining—there are cheaper, quieter options nearby.
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.1
Neighborhood taqueria-bistro on 18th Street known for fresh tortillas, duck confit tacos, and a bar program with weekday happy hour. A longtime Potrero Hill staple for dinner and casual dates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck confit taco, Elote, Sopa ranchera
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: House-made tortillas and duck confit tacos with a true neighborhood bar.
Who should go: Locals wanting a relaxed 18th Street hang
When to visit: Weekday happy hour at the bar
What to order: Duck confit taco; elote; margarita
Insider tip: Happy-hour drink pricing is typically bar-seating only—ask on arrival.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited on 18th Street; expect competition during dinner hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; jeans and a nice shirt are fine, but guests often lean slightly dressy for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—enough background buzz to feel lively, but you can still hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though service is limited outside dinner and happy hour.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several options including elote, veggie tacos, and guacamole.
Vegan options: Limited—mainly chips, guacamole, and a few customizable tacos.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas are house-made and gluten-free; confirm with staff about cross-contact.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The cozy bistro vibe, shareable plates, and craft cocktails make it an easy choice for a casual yet memorable first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually on weekdays, but weekend evenings fill quickly. Arrive early for bar seating if you don’t book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—families are welcome and the menu has approachable items for kids, though evenings lean more adult with the bar crowd.
Best For
Better for: Stronger on creative tacos (like duck confit) and neighborhood charm than larger Mexican chains.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking a quick, cheap bite—this is more of a sit-down experience with higher prices.
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.0
Neighborhood taqueria-bistro on 18th Street (since 2010) with house-made tortillas, a full tequila/mezcal bar, and a reliable weekday happy hour. Tacos show careful seasoning and better-than-average produce and proteins.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Confit Taco, Carne Asada Taco, Grilled Elote Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Handmade tortillas and refined tacos in a cozy hilltop setting.
Who should go: Locals wanting a relaxed tequila bar scene
When to visit: Weekday HH at the bar for best pricing
What to order: Duck confit taco; carne asada taco; margarita
Insider tip: HH drink pricing is typically at-bar only—confirm on arrival.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on 18th Street can be challenging after 6pm; no valet or dedicated lot available.
Dress code: Smart casual works best—locals often wear jeans, but many lean slightly dressy for date nights.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are possible, but the bar area gets lively during happy hour.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; seating available right away.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and starter options feature seasonal vegetables and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 items can be adapted, but menu is not designed vegan-first.
Gluten-free options: Yes—house-made corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free; cross-contact is possible, so ask staff.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—the cozy hilltop setting, handmade tortillas, and tequila-focused bar program create a relaxed but elevated vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weekdays, especially early evening; weekends benefit from a reservation to avoid waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—casual atmosphere works for families with children 8+, though the bar focus means it skews more adult in the evenings.
Best For
Better for: Papito excels at refined tacos with handmade tortillas and a true neighborhood tequila bar feel.
Skip if: Skip if you’re looking for a rowdy sports-bar scene or very broad vegan options—other spots nearby may suit better.
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.3
Organic-leaning Potrero taqueria (since 2010) known for well-executed tacos, enchiladas, and fresh salsas in a casual, kid-friendly room. Sidewalk seating and steady service make it an easy weeknight Mexican option for families.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos (organic focus), Enchiladas suizas, House guacamole & chips
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Organic-minded Mexican plates and tacos in an easygoing Potrero setting.
Who should go: Families wanting reliable, fresh Mexican
When to visit: Early dinner 5–7 pm for quickest seating
What to order: Carnitas tacos, enchiladas suizas, churros
Insider tip: Snag sidewalk tables on warm evenings for stroller space.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available in Potrero Hill, though it can get competitive after 6pm. No valet service offered.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, t-shirts, and comfortable wear are all fine.
Noise level: Moderate — conversational but can get lively during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak hours without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, even for small groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several tacos, enchiladas, and salads are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options, though modifications (hold cheese/sour cream) can expand choices.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas are available, but cross-contact is possible as no separate prep area exists.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual dates than romantic ones. The easygoing vibe and outdoor tables work if you're aiming for relaxed and unfussy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — Papito rarely requires reservations. Early dinners and weekday lunches are the easiest times to walk in.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — casual seating, quick service, and a welcoming atmosphere make it suitable for kids of all ages. Sidewalk tables give extra room for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Fresher, more organic-leaning plates than typical neighborhood taquerias, with consistent service and family-friendly energy.
Skip if: You’re looking for upscale date-night Mexican or a bar-driven atmosphere — other SF spots fit those better.
Papito - Potrero Hill
8.2
Since 2010, this Potrero Hill taqueria turns out thoughtfully sourced tacos (including a noted duck confit) alongside agave spirits and mezcal margaritas. Portions are fair, flavors stay bright, and service is steady for both weeknight dinners and casual dates.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck Confit Taco, Carnitas Taco, Al Pastor Taco
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Organic-leaning taqueria with a standout duck confit taco and agave bar.
Who should go: Taco lovers who enjoy a sit-down experience
When to visit: Weeknights after 8 for easier seating
What to order: Duck confit, al pastor, mezcal margarita
Insider tip: Ask about seasonal tacos—specials rotate with market produce.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tricky on 18th Street, especially after 6pm. There are metered spots nearby and a small paid lot within a 3-minute walk.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual. Jeans and a nice top are fine, though many guests lean slightly dressy in the evenings.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but still possible to hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with quicker turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several taco fillings and small plates are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — about 2–3 options; some tacos can be customized.
Gluten-free options: Yes — most tacos are served on corn tortillas, and staff can advise on safe choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warm lighting, upbeat atmosphere, and creative tacos make it relaxed but still special.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s possible, but expect a wait on weekend nights. Calling ahead or arriving early improves your odds.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Families often visit, and the casual vibe works for kids over 5. High chairs are available but limited.
Best For
Better for: Papito shines with its inventive tacos and strong agave-based cocktail program, especially the duck confit option.
Skip if: If you’re looking for ultra-cheap, quick-serve tacos, you might prefer a counter-service taqueria instead.