Papas & Tacos Mexican Food

San Diego is a cultural and culinary melting pot, a major port that is home to people of many ethnic backgrounds. A predominately Mexican influence has taken over the lifestyles of San Diego citizens, especially when it comes to food. Burritos, enchiladas, and tacos are offered at almost every corner. Papas & Tacos, north of downtown, has it all at an especially affordable price. Locally owned and run, this small take-out Mexican restaurant is open for lunch and dinner everyday, offering a large menu of traditional Mexican meals as well as specialty dishes.

We decided to try as many things as possible, so we ordered a burrito, a quesadilla, fish tacos, and rolled chicken tacos. A hefty meal? Barely felt like it when we paid for it. We were prepared for small portions and mediocre flavor, but what we found was quite the opposite.

The California burrito was recommended to us as it was the single most popular item. Containing tender chunks of grilled chicken, a smooth guacamole and sour cream mixture, and seasoned potatoes all wrapped in a soft doughy tortilla, it is the most popular dish on the menu. The potatoes were comparable to tasty French fries and really enhanced the flavor of this stuffed burrito. Definitely one for the books: Don’t miss out on this menu gem.

We also decided on Spicy Fish Tacos; Southern California is known for them. These came two in an order, and each corn taco contained a whole piece of marinated grilled white fish with sautéed onions all doused in a spicy, tomato-like sauce. Though this combo meal came with rather bland rice, the refried beans were chunky, as if they had been prepared on the spot, and went perfectly with this local favorite. Fair warning: They aren’t kidding about the spice. It is hot!

Rolled Chicken Tacos came four to an order, made with a crunchy fried tortilla and pulled chicken that unfortunately wasn’t as flavorful as in the burrito. Topped with the same smooth guacamole and Mexican cheese blend, the scant flavor wasn’t a troubling issue.

A vegetarian Vegetable Quesadilla was spectacular. Mushrooms, zucchini, corn, bell peppers, sour cream, and a beautiful amount of gooey cheese: This dish had the ingredients dripping out. It was finger-licking good.

Finishing off with two fresh-baked churros, we were in Mexican food heaven. Warm, covered in cinnamon and sugar and crisp on the outside, these were the best churros we’ve ever had.

We highly recommend a trip out of downtown, just north of the city to enjoy a genuine Mexican feast at Papas & Tacos for a fraction of the cost of any other meal in town.