Papi's Tacos

Papi's Tacos opened on Seah Street in 2018, set up by the team behind the Employees Only bar with chef Mauricio Espinoza, known to regulars as Papi, who grew up in Papalotla in central Mexico. The original outlet is a small, open-kitchen taqueria with counter seats and a handful of tables, and it remains the brand's flagship.

Tacos come in pairs, from grilled chicken and charred pork belly with tamarind glaze to house-smoked beef brisket, grilled dory and spicy pork chorizo. Seah Street has its own special of tacos al pastor with grilled pineapple. The quesabirria tacos, pan-fried with cheese and served with a smoked chilli broth, are the big order, while esquites and the loaded nachos work for sharing. Happy hour runs daily from noon to 7pm, with frozen lime margaritas and draught lager at S$10.

It suits a quick lunch or a casual dinner with friends. Seating is limited, so book ahead in the evenings. Other outlets are in Tanjong Pagar (33 Tanjong Pagar Road), Katong (450 Joo Chiat Road) and Jalan Besar (149 Tyrwhitt Road).