This place is yum! I definitely want to come back here to try more. I got the poblano and cheese appetizer and also tried some rice and beans as well as chips and dips. It was delish. The service is good and it's super fun in there! read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - me and my lovely friends - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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They don't take American Express Dinner was good, not great. The chips were fresh and tasty but the salsa was a fine thin purée that lacked in flavor. I ordered Chile Verde which is pork in a green or tomatillo sauce. The pork was smaller chunks but still juicy and the sauce was very good holding a little heat and plenty of flavor. The sauce still had the seeds from the tomatillos which I think enhanced the flavor. The plate came with rice which was fair and a black refried bean which I also liked. The tortillas were corn at my request and were good. I would eat here again. The place is upstairs in a community of bars and restaurants. The ambiance was just OK read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Chile verde dinner - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Atmosphere was great. However, we had to find our waiter to start ordering our food and we had a table reserved Feb 20. (Waiter) didn't know how to split the bill, he didn't bring us a receipt back and everyone in our party was overcharged on their bills. read more

What started out as a not so good service, was turned in to a good one. My daughter has celiac, and I ordered a gluten free dinner to go. When I arrived home, there was flour tortillas in her meal. I called the restaurant back, talked to the manager Gali. She apologized and hand delivered her a new meal. I can't thank Gali enough for caring about the service and my daughter condition enough to offer correction. Papi's, great choice as a manager. Gali, keep up the great work. read more

Got some takeout here. It was cold by the time I ate it only ten minutes later, which I blame less on the packaging then on the weather. While it probably would have been better warm, still it was a nice meal. My cheese enchiladas in mole had a complex flavor, which was enhanced more by the fried jalapenos I ordered on the side. The guacamole was smooth and citrus-y, but I didn't think much of the salsa and the chips weren't especially good. The food was good, not great. The place does have a vegetarian/vegan menu (overwhelmingly the former, given the dairy), and GF menu listed, which is notable around here. It's not what you'd get in Texas, but for Kentucky I was pretty happy. read more

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I have never been to this restaurant before; but the food was fabulous!! You get so much food on their lunch menu for such a decent price!! Honestly, I was very surprised with the kindness of our waitress and the excellent service that we received. While the salsa tasted like it had more chili seasoning that I am used to, it still tasted great and my mouth was a happy camper. My 2 only grudges: 1) While the bathroom was clean, the stalls in the women's bathroom were very tiny. If I was a kid or a midget, I would have no problem fitting into the stall. 2) Cleaning a table with the strongest Lysol while others are trying to enjoy their lunch, not the smartest idea. Such a pleasant atmosphere otherwise, and will be back. read more

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Solid, straightforward Mexican food menu. Nothing I tried was worth writing home about but a good choice if you're craving a good standard. Service was excellent and always appreciate a good Negra Modelo on tap. The fish tacos were fresh with just the right amount of crisp and not overly sauced. Standard cheaper restaurant rice and bean side. My friend ordered the fajitas which came out sizzling (the fun part!) with all of the expected flair. Again, good basic choice that hit the spot on a rainy lazy night where casual and close won out over fancier and far. Glad to have them in the neighborhood. read more

If I could give a zero I would. I ordered just cheese nachos and they came out with beans, so I sent them back. When they came back out they gave me the same nachos with beans and did not fix them read more

Food and service was excellent!! Fresh quality food. Excellent service, we had a super sweet smart server. She was knowledgeable and recommended some delicious grilled chicken quesadillas. Yum!! We also had what I would call a deconstructed fried ice cream. Just before we left, they had set up corn hole, and had a live dj. So fun! We will definitely be back! Thank you!! read more

Came by myself on a frigid cold Saturday afternoon while my daughter was competing at an event at UK. This place up a flight of stairs and very cozy. Nice vibe. One waiter with long hair had about 4 - 5 tables to himself and was KILLING IT. He was super friendly and super in control of all tables. Food came out quickly and portions were generous. I got the Enchladas Suiza and it was excellent. The waiter checked on me often and was on it with refills and to go box. I'd come here again, but I bet it can be crowded when it's happy hour or events are in town. Definitely come here if you are craving Mexican food. read more

I've been meaning to try out Papi's for quite some time and last night we came in for dinner. It was pretty busy and they do have drink specials until 6pm I believe. Our wait for a table for 2 wasn't that long, may be 15 minutes. I tried the barbacoa taco (their taco week special) which was yummy and one of the cauliflower tacos and that was an interesting twist as I've never had cauliflower on tacos before. Bahama mamma drink was fruity tropical and delicious, I do recommend that as well as their cheese/poblano tamales which my husband and I split. I would like to note that it is pretty loud in there so I wouldn't recommend this for anyone that wants to enjoy a more quiet atmosphere. read more

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Takes to long to get your food. The restaurant is small and loud don't recommend if you want to have a conversation. Food doesn't taste that good. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

I'll start off by saying I wanted to love this place since I live so close to it. The chips and salsa...just be ready for a let-down here. I can get past the chips tasting like store-bought tortilla chips (bummer if you compare some of the great places in town), but the complimentary salsa provided tasted like pizza or marinara sauce - no spice and no fresh taste. I got the shrimp and asada tacos with rice and really enjoyed that! Fair for the price. I washed all of this down with a Diet Coke with no carbonation. Opening week is hard. I get it. But they have some big improvements to make if they want to run with the big dogs in town. read more

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I never have to wait. I love their mole enchiladas. They have great customer service ....and the frozen Margaritas are legit. This is my go to for Mexican food in Lexington. I am from Texas and grew up on Tex Mex so I know what I am talking about. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Mole Enchiladas with Chicken - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

If Lexingtonians can't have Rincon...I'm glad we at least get to keep a Mexican restaurant on Euclid! A group of us went to Papi's last week for dinner. If you are familiar with Rincon, you understand the layout- a small bar area when you walk up the stairs, a room of 15-20 tables, and a large group table in the back. We were seated in the main dining area, and our waiter moved some tables around to accommodate our group which was great! The chips and salsa to start were very good! The salsa was flavorful and fresh and the chips weren't overly greasy or salty. For an entree I ordered Mexican rice and black beans with a side of avocado. Everything was very good! Next time I go I want to try the bean burrito. Every order is customizable and the kitchen is willing to make any changes to a dish. Maybe I shouldn't compare to its predecessor, but the decor seemed a little bare! A few wall accents or brighter paint would go a long way I think. Parking wasn't too difficult; there is street and an indoor lot available. read more

Very good food reasonably priced! Table seating a bit too crowded imo! Opt for a booth!

The the overall atmosphere, decor, and service of this establishment is great but the food was lackluster. The best food taste wise was the free chips & salsa. I ended up going this place 4 stars because of the great service and the great happy hour menu. read more

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So let me start by saying, I LOVE tamales. They are in my top five favorite foods. I typically go to "Farm Market: best tamales in town" or have a close friend make them and AH! Both places- amazing. Papi's tamales: very disappointing. Farm market is closed Sundays, so I thought I would try someplace new. I called and ordered "6 cheese and jalapeño tamales plain, no salsa no queso, no sides, plain in the corn husk" . I made the 30 min round trip, get home, only to find all my tamales are out of the husk, swimming in a watery cheese sauce and falling apart. I call, ask if I can pick up replacements to get what I actually ordered. They tell me No! I will need to buy 6 more, what?? I say no I'm not going to pay more money to eat my food the way I ordered it. Finally the manager gets on and is very nice and says we will have that ready for you soon. Another 30 min round trip, I get home and the tamales are plain as I ordered but now I'm mad, I'm not even hungry and they are the worst tamales I have ever had. Super salty, Falling apart, no flavor, and terrible texture. Plus sides: the manger and host zoey were very nice, I'm sure their other food is great, but I was CRAVING good cheese tamales like farm market or my friend Ereth's and papi's tamales were super duper not good. I even had my boyfriend try them just to be sure (because at this point my range could very easily have skewed my judgement). He took two bites and then put them in the trash. End rant. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Tamales (queso fresco and peppers) - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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Best tamales I've ever had! The people are nice and the service was amazing. Best Mexican place I've been to in a while

Went last night, long wait for food. Food was not up to their usual standard came out like warm. Server check on us just as plates were set down and never came back. Had to try getting his attention for check which also took time. Music is nice but not if you wanted to have a conversation, too loud. I know getting servers is hard now so understand some of the wait and non-attention. But food from many past experiences was really subpar. read more

The food is always amazing, Papi himself has been there to serve us or to come and talk to us, super down to earth individual. The servers are outstanding and super attentive to what our needs were. The ambiance is always setting the mood whether it's date night or a night out with the friends. I always come back to this resteraunt when I am in town regardless of the day! read more

I ordered their version of Pollo Bandido (Chicken, Cheese, and Rice) to go and it was delicious! It's considered an appetizer, but it filled me up! Also, it took no time to get my order. I called, got in my car, had my food/paid for my good in I'd say less than 15 minutes. A place I'll be checking out again in the future. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Chicken, Cheese, and Rice - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

This place is awesome! If you want a good time, good service, and decent food then come to papi's. Preferably on Thursdays (karaoke night) its awesome read more

We decided to try Papi's for an early Saturday night dinner. It's obviously a popular place. There was only one table available in the front room. Firstly, the service was right on point. I ordered a Margarita. It didn't impress. I should have gone with a beer. I selected the Salsa Verde. The pork was flavorful and tender. The rice had no flavor. I asked for hot sauce to kick it up, which it did. I'm not a fan of refried beans and would rather have black beans, but was told they don't substitute on weekends. How difficult would it be? Tortillas accompanied the dish. Three stars is all I can give Papi's. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Pork Salsa Verde - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Papi's is so insanely good, I recommend everyone try their churros, margs, and queso! I also LOVE their taco salads and chimichangas. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Chicken chimichanga! - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

FAVE SPOT IN CHEVY CHASE!! Papi's by far beats all the rest when it comes to great customer service & tastier Mexican food We recently celebrated their anniversary and they had lots of specials going on. I usually order Papi's burrito--or the fajitas! :) read more

This is one of my FAVORITE local restaurants. I kid you not, I'm here at least once a week. This is the most welcoming restaurant in town. Marcos and the whole staff make you feel like family from the second you walk in. The food is good, the portions are huge (the large bowl of soup is literally bigger than my head), and the margs are STRONG. I wish I could give this place more than five stars because they really deserve it. And while you can't find it on the menu, make sure to ask for the churros. They're the best! read more

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One of my favorite Mexican restaurants in town! I love their tacos because they're so authentic and delicious. They have great deals on drinks throughout the week and happy hour! The only downside is parking, its street parking but usually you can find parking close by. I would strongly recommend their Tacos al Pastor and Tacos de Carne Asada! read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

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Back to Papi's for another visit for their street tacos and complimentary chips and salsa. One word. Wow! I tried the barbacoa and asada with fried torado peppers and their green house made salsa for $12.00, +$2.00 for the peppers. So refreshing and tasty, especially the barbacoa which I would suggest you all try. This meat was soft, slightly peppery and just overall amazing. I know I was a little tough on the previous review, but it seems they do but seasonally available ingredients. That being said, it does not diminish the amazing flavor you find. The staff are so nice and I love it when I see the positivity from both the staff and owner. I do feel like they appreciate my patronage. All in all a solid 5 and I've found a new love in their barbacoa street tacos. read more

Great meal at Papi's last night. Service was fantastic, Tampiqueño was delicious, and the margarita rocas tasty. Best Mex In Lex imo (hope I get credit for the next t-shirt). read more

We had a terrific lunch. The steak in our tacos was so tender and had a wonderful flavor. The service was great and we look forward to going Hands down best Mexican food in town. Best chimichanga I have ever had!! AMAZING! read more

Lexington has no shortage of Mexican restaurants, and they can start to seem redundant since most of their menus are more or less the same. Papi's stands out to me for two reasons - the quality, and the specials. You can get a chimichanga anywhere, but my boyfriend raves about the ones here, and for good reason. They also have dinner specials you can't get anywhere else, like the adobo de puerco dish I ordered during my last visit. That one in particular is fantastic, even down to the rice and refried beans, which I often find bland at other places. The service is consistently above average and I recall getting a $5 pina colada at some point, which is pretty hard to beat. My one complaint is that the chips here are nothing special. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Adobo de puerco - must try - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

We all had different variations of enchiladas which we all enjoyed. Zeke really liked the soup, and Jonas pointed out that the salsa was nice & chunky. We also had churros for dessert. I could certainly see us going back again to eat some time. read more

Papis Mexican Restaurant & Bar - Enchiladas - Mexican Near Me - Lexington, Kentucky

Favorite lexington Mexican restaurant. I especially enjoy the new covered outdoor seating. Service is always pleasant and forgiving of my 4 messy children. read more

This place definitely had a more of college town bar vide, but don't let that steer you away. We went during Taco Week and expected a wait, the only downside was the hostess was running around like a mad person to accommodate the extra flow of traffic due to taco week. It took him about 5-10 minutes to even come back and put our name on the list. However, once we were on the list we may have only waited another 5-10 minutes. so a 20-minute wait isn't bad. Our waitress was very attentive and brought out salsa and chips almost immediately. She came by to check on us and the timing of ordering an appetizer, drinks and our meals was amazing. read more

My husband and I ate at Papi's last night for dinner and this was my third visit. I wanted to give it a couple more tries before I wrote a review. My opinion has not changed much and I am being generous with three stars. Let me explain...First, the service is great. We had a poor waiter last night who had, in addition to our table, a table of eight, a table of 4 and the bar. He brought our food in a timely manner, but it was not the warmest in the world. My last two trips there, it has not been that warm either. Last night, I got the vegetable fajitas, and those were warm, but my husband's burrito was not. The rice and the beans were not very warm either, and they may as well have just opened a can and put them on a plate. The guacamole has improved & they do have a homemade salsa with the chips they serve at the beginning that is good. They will, of course, bring you endless chips. Leaving on a good note, my husband said the beer was ice cold! read more

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The food here is delicious!! The service is absolutely amazing! Everyone here is so nice! I got the Mexican sandwich and it was mind blowing! We will be back for sure! We brought our 2 year old son and they played with him and gave him attention which made our dining experience better! The salsa was really good! You can tell it was made fresh! read more

Wow! This place is awesome! We came here to try it out and I was blown away by the great flavors. We had the guac, chicken & el pastor street tacos, and Chile verde and it was all superb. The guac was really fresh and delish. The street tacos were filled with very flavorful meat, which we don't get at many other places. The retried beans were really good with the cotija cheese on top. The service was top notch and everyone was very friendly. Can't wait to return to try something else! read more

Stopped by here for lunch since we were in the area. My trusted Yelp app says this was a hot new business so I was eager to try it. Upon walking in, you hear upbeat music and we were greeted by our server. We were seated right away. The decor was bright and colorful. You get complimentary chips and dip. The salsa tasted fresh. The chips were thicker than I like but that's just my preference. I got the Chicken Chimichangas and upon the first cut, the cheese just oozed out of it. It was so good! The lunch menu was very affordable and filling. I will come back here and try their other dishes! read more

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After a long day on the Bourbon Trail, we stopped in for dinner. We were warmly greeted and seated immediately. We started with a pitcher of their house margarita and chips with queso, salsa, and guacamole. Chips were plain, cold, and out of a bag, nothing special. Queso and quac were good. Salsa was out of a jar with little heat. Margaritas were pre-made with cheaper tequila but they were good. Our dinners were served hot and came out fast. Everything tasted fresh and delicious and all 4 of us were happy with our choices. The service was good despite an occasional language barrier. The menu had many good selections and the food was reasonably priced. read more