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Papito Hayes
Master Critic Reviews (9 Lists)
Papito Hayes
8.5
Vibes:
Trendy Table Hotspots
Group Dining Gatherings
Business Lunch Power Players
Quick Bites Champions
Hayes Valley staple (since 2014) serving tacos with a Cal-Mex sensibility plus margaritas and a broader menu. Polished service and a lively room make it pre-show friendly.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos, Pescado tacos, Chicken tinga tacos
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Refined tacos and margaritas in the heart of Hayes Valley.
Who should go: Pre-show diners and small groups
When to visit: After 8pm for shorter waits
What to order: Carnitas, pescado, tinga tacos
Insider tip: Bar seats turn over fastest before Symphony/Opera curtain times.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is tight in Hayes Valley, especially after 6pm; nearby paid garages are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Smart casual—jeans are fine but many diners lean dressy for pre-show outings.
Noise level: Lively but manageable; you can hold a conversation though the room gets buzzy during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer around Symphony/Opera showtimes.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick turnover at bar and patio tables.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several tacos and enchiladas with vegetables, beans, and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options; modifications possible but confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available; staff can guide on gluten-free safe picks.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—lively Hayes Valley setting with polished service and good margaritas makes for a relaxed, upbeat date spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, though expect a wait at prime hours; bar seating is often the quickest route.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably—kids are welcome and staff is accommodating, but the vibe skews more adult and lively, especially evenings.
Best For
Better for: Great for polished tacos with cocktails and lively pre-show energy in Hayes Valley.
Skip if: If you want a super quiet dinner, ultra-traditional taqueria fare, or strictly vegan dining.
Papito Hayes
8.3
Vibes:
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Neighborhood Hayes Valley choice for tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas with steady service before or after nearby shows. Pricing is approachable and the menu balances lighter options with the classics.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas Tacos, Pescado Tacos, Churros
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Walkable pre- and post-performance spot with a broad, reliable menu.
Who should go: Showgoers and casual taco seekers
When to visit: Evenings after 8 for shorter waits
What to order: Carnitas tacos; pescado tacos; churros
Insider tip: Snag sidewalk seating for prime Hayes Valley people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is scarce in Hayes Valley, especially after 6pm; nearby garages on Gough and Ivy usually run $6–10/hour.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers are common, though some diners lean smart casual when coming from nearby shows.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but you can hold a conversation without shouting, especially on the patio.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes without a reservation after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No wait or minimal wait, tables typically available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple tacos, enchiladas, and sides can be ordered vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 dishes can be adapted, but not a broad selection.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas and several mains are naturally gluten-free, but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual dates than formal ones; the atmosphere is relaxed and buzzy but not overly intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, especially for smaller groups; weekends may require a short wait but turnover is steady.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes, the menu is approachable for children and staff are accommodating; best for kids over 6 given the lively noise level.
Best For
Better for: Papito Hayes excels at being a convenient pre- or post-show spot with a broad, reliable Mexican menu and friendly service.
Skip if: If you want cutting-edge Mexican cuisine or a quiet, romantic setting, consider alternatives instead.
Papito Hayes
7.9
Neighborhood Hayes Valley spot turning out tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas with later weekend hours. It’s a reliable sit-down option for post-concert plates a short stroll from Patricia’s Green.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos, Fish tacos (seasonal), Enchiladas verdes
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Walkable late-evening tacos with a relaxed, neighborhood feel.
Who should go: Showgoers and casual taco seekers
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9pm for last kitchen call
What to order: Carnitas tacos; pescado tacos; churros
Insider tip: Grab sidewalk seats for prime people-watching.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley can be tough after 7pm; metered spots free after 8pm, no valet service.
Dress code: Casual — jeans and sneakers are fine; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate — lively but you can usually hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation around 8–9pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several taco, enchilada, and sides options can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited — 2–3 options like veggie tacos and chips with guacamole.
Gluten-free options: Yes — corn tortillas are gluten-free, but cross-contact possible in shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than romantic first dates — relaxed vibe, not overly intimate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, usually possible on weekdays and early evenings; weekends after 8pm may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families often bring kids; high chairs are limited but menu has quesadillas and churros for younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Great for groups or post-show hangouts thanks to central Hayes Valley location and late kitchen hours.
Skip if: Skip if you want cutting-edge tacos or a quiet, romantic dinner — try upscale Mexican spots nearby instead.
Papito Hayes
7.8
Neighborhood Mexican spot in Hayes Valley serving tacos, enchiladas, and margaritas with later weekend hours. It’s a reliable sit-down option for post-concert plates or a casual nightcap near Patricia’s Green.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos on house tortillas, Enchiladas verdes, Churros with chocolate
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Weekend hours run later with a lively Hayes Valley crowd.
Who should go: Showgoers and neighborhood night owls
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 9pm for last kitchen call
What to order: Carnitas tacos; enchiladas verdes; churros
Insider tip: If indoor tables are full, grab the sidewalk seats and people-watch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tight in Hayes Valley, especially after 7pm; nearby paid garages on Gough and Fell are reliable alternatives.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sneakers are fine; locals often come straight from shows or neighborhood strolls.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is doable inside, but patio tables are quieter.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes during peak hours if you walk in without a reservation.
Weekday lunch: No wait or very short wait; easy to get seated.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple taco and enchilada options with veggies and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited—1–2 options like veggie tacos without cheese; confirm with staff.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas and many dishes are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact is possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you’re looking for casual and lively—grab a patio seat with margaritas for a fun, low-pressure vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially weekdays; on weekends after 8:30pm expect a short wait but turnover is steady.
Is it kid-friendly? Early evenings are fine for families; high chairs available, but late-night hours lean more toward adults and groups.
Best For
Better for: Great for late-night sit-down Mexican with cocktails in Hayes Valley; livelier and more social than nearby taquerias.
Skip if: Skip if you want ultra-quiet dining or extensive vegan options—other spots in the area may be better fits.
Papito Hayes
8.3
Compact Hayes Valley spot turning out tacos, enchiladas, and tortas with a neighborhood-friendly pace. Sidewalk seating and a steady kids’ menu cadence make it an easy family stop before or after the playgrounds along Octavia Green.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas tacos (hand-pressed tortillas), Chicken enchiladas verdes, Carne asada torta
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Kid-welcoming patio and reliable neighborhood Mexican staples.
Who should go: Parents near Patricia’s Green
When to visit: Early dinner 5–6pm before peak
What to order: Carnitas tacos; enchiladas verdes; churros
Insider tip: Ask for half-and-half taco fillings to sample multiple proteins.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Hayes Street and nearby blocks; spots turn over after 6pm but can be tight on weekends. Closest garage is Performing Arts Garage (360 Grove St, ~5 min walk).
Dress code: Casual—jeans, sneakers, and kid-friendly attire are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate—families and patio chatter, but you can hold a conversation without shouting.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak between 6–7:30pm, patio fills quickly.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—vegetarian enchiladas, cheese quesadillas, and veggie tacos are offered.
Vegan options: Limited—bean tacos, nopales (cactus) options, and some sides can be vegan on request.
Gluten-free options: Yes—corn tortillas available for most tacos; no separate prep area so cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal—it’s more casual and family-oriented. Better suited for relaxed friend meetups or family outings.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Expect short waits at peak dinner hours, especially for patio tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—ideal for kids of all ages. They offer kid-sized portions, high chairs, and a forgiving atmosphere with outdoor seating near playgrounds.
Best For
Better for: Quick, affordable Mexican in a family-friendly setting with outdoor tables steps from Patricia’s Green.
Skip if: You want a quiet, romantic atmosphere or a bar-driven Mexican dining experience.
Papito Hayes
7.9
Neighborhood Mexican spot where burritos come with cleaner flavors and optional mojado treatment from a full kitchen. Patio and bar make it an easy pre-or-post-show stop in Hayes Valley.
Must-Try Dishes:
Super Burrito (carnitas), Burrito Mojado, Vegetarian Burrito (Oaxaca sauce)
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Full-service burritos with patio seating and a broader menu.
Who should go: Pre-show diners and neighborhood meetups
When to visit: Early evening before weekend patio peak
What to order: Carnitas super, burrito mojado, veggie burrito
Insider tip: Ask for salsa trio on the side to customize heat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Hayes Valley can be tight, especially on weekends; meter enforcement until 6pm, no valet service.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine; patio guests often lean toward smart casual if dining before a show.
Noise level: Moderate—conversation-friendly indoors, slightly louder on the patio during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes without a reservation; patio fills first.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait, especially before 12:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple burrito and enchilada options plus sides can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify veggie burrito without cheese or sour cream.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas available; most mains can be adapted but no dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re going for a casual, lively vibe—patio tables pair well with cocktails. It’s not overly intimate but works for a fun, relaxed date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes on weekdays; on weekends, expect to wait unless you arrive early evening. Reservations recommended for patio seating.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids—menu has familiar items like quesadillas and rice plates. Patio seating works well for families, though it’s more of an adult hangout in the evening.
Best For
Better for: Full-service Mexican meals with burritos, cocktails, and patio seating in a trendier Hayes Valley setting.
Skip if: You want the cheapest grab-and-go burrito in town—taqueria counters in the Mission will be faster and less expensive.
Papito Hayes
8.3
Hayes Valley’s sit-down Mexican spot turning out well-seasoned tacos on organic corn tortillas, plus agave-leaning cocktails. Locals use it for casual dates or pre-show plates near the Symphony.
Must-Try Dishes:
Braised chicken mole taco, Carnitas taco, Vegetariano taco (roasted veg & pasilla)
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Carefully made tacos on organic tortillas with balanced salsas.
Who should go: Casual date nights and pre-show diners
When to visit: Early evening before concert crowds
What to order: Braised chicken mole; carnitas; churros after
Insider tip: Sidewalk tables are easiest to snag right at opening.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Limited metered street parking nearby; Civic Center Garage is a 5-minute walk and most convenient before shows.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual—jeans and nice tops are common; no strict dress requirements.
Noise level: Moderate buzz indoors, especially on weekends; outdoor tables are better for conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation during peak pre-show times.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait; walk-ins are fine.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple tacos and starters like veggie tacos and guacamole.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize with veggie tacos and hold cheese/crema.
Gluten-free options: Yes—organic corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free, but fried items may share oil.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—lively but not overwhelming atmosphere, cocktails, and outdoor tables make it a fun yet relaxed spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially at lunch or early evenings; for weekend dinners or pre-show times, reservations are safer.
Is it kid-friendly? Casual enough for families with kids over 6; high chairs are limited and space can be tight during busy hours.
Best For
Better for: Organic tortillas and carefully seasoned tacos make it stand out versus more generic taquerias nearby.
Skip if: If you’re seeking ultra-authentic street-style tacos or a super quiet dinner—smaller food trucks or quieter cantinas may fit better.
Papito Hayes
8.2
Compact Hayes Valley spot turning out tacos, pozole, and burritos with quick pacing. Pre- and post-show crowds come for duck carnitas and solid margaritas at fair prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Duck carnitas taco, Pozole rojo, Carne asada burrito
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Neighborhood Mexican with standout duck carnitas and brisk pacing.
Who should go: Pre-show diners and casual groups
When to visit: Early evening before Hayes Valley peak
What to order: Duck carnitas tacos, pozole rojo, carne asada burrito
Insider tip: Lines move fast—order tacos à la carte to sample more fillings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in Hayes Valley; metered spots are available but scarce during peak dining hours. The closest paid garage is at 450 Hayes St.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and relaxed attire are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Lively and energetic; you can hold a conversation, but expect background chatter, especially during dinner.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes at peak times; arrive early evening to avoid long waits.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or very minimal.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several taco and enchilada options feature vegetables, beans, and cheese.
Vegan options: Limited – a few dishes can be modified by omitting cheese or crema; ask staff for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are available, but no dedicated gluten-free prep area; cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual or fun first date than a romantic one—it's lively, compact, and fast-paced.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. They don’t take reservations; walk-ins are the norm, and turnover is quick.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for older kids who like tacos and burritos. Limited space means it may be tight for strollers or very young children.
Best For
Better for: Great for quick, affordable Mexican with unique touches like duck carnitas and strong margaritas before or after shows.
Skip if: If you want a quiet, romantic dinner or upscale ambiance, consider another spot nearby.
Papito Hayes
8.2
Compact Hayes Valley spot for tacos, pozole, and burritos with a few chef-y touches like duck carnitas and tuna tostadas. A reliable pre- or post-show stop with quick pacing and fair prices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Carnitas de pato taco, Pozole rojo, Queso fundido
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Neighborhood Mexican with house favorites like duck carnitas tacos.
Who should go: Pre-show diners and casual groups
When to visit: Early evening before peak Hayes Valley crowds
What to order: Duck carnitas taco; pozole rojo; carne asada burrito
Insider tip: Lines move fast—order tacos à la carte to try more fillings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tricky in Hayes Valley evenings; metered spots nearby, no valet service.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine; jeans and sneakers are common.
Noise level: Moderate buzz, especially at peak hours—conversations are possible but energetic.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes during peak Hayes Valley hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, walk right in.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—veggie tacos, burritos, and pozole are available.
Vegan options: Limited but workable—try mushroom tacos or bean-based burritos (ask to omit cheese).
Gluten-free options: Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free; most tacos can be made GF.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if your date enjoys casual, lively spots; less ideal if you're seeking a quiet, romantic atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—most guests walk in. During peak times expect a short wait, but turnover is fast.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—family-friendly with straightforward menu items kids enjoy, though seating is compact and best for older children.
Best For
Better for: Quick, flavorful tacos and house specialties like duck carnitas at fair prices in a central location.
Skip if: You’re seeking a quiet dinner, white-tablecloth Mexican dining, or a full bar program.