Are you looking for delicious tacos in downtown Greenville with an incredible view that won’t break the bank? Papi’s Tacos sits right along the Reedy River, and the scenery is just as memorable as the food. Known for authentic Mexican street food, fresh ingredients, and family recipes passed down through generations, Papi’s has become one of Greenville’s favorite taco spots.
But in 2026, the Barrales family expanded the Papi’s brand in a big way. Alongside the original River Street taco shop, they opened Papi’s Kitchen in Greenville’s West End — an elevated dining concept with a refined menu and full bar. The original Papi’s Tacos location remains open and continues serving the casual tacos locals know and love.
The Story Behind Papi’s Tacos & Papi’s Kitchen
The story of Papi’s Tacos is rooted in family, hard work, and authentic recipes from Morelos, Mexico.
Founder Jorge Barrales Sr. came to the United States searching for a better life for his family. He first worked in California before eventually settling in Greenville near relatives already living in the Upstate. Over time, the recipes he learned from his mother became the foundation for what would grow into one of Greenville’s best-known local taco restaurants.
Today, Papi’s remains a family-run business, with Jorge Sr. working alongside his wife and son. Their focus has always been simple: authentic Mexican food made with care, fresh ingredients, and flavors that remind them of home.
What Makes Papi’s Tacos Unique?
Papi’s Tacos describes itself as a “food truck without wheels,” offering a straightforward menu centered around authentic Mexican street food. Expect tacos, tortas, fresh-made salsas, guacamole, and dips prepared using traditional family recipes.
The River Street location remains one of the best casual dining spots in downtown Greenville thanks to:
- Outdoor seating overlooking the Reedy River
- A quick-service, family-friendly atmosphere
- Affordable prices
- Authentic Mexican flavors
- Convenient access to Falls Park and the splash pad
It’s the kind of place where you can grab tacos after walking downtown, enjoying the park, or spending the afternoon with kids nearby.
What Should You Order at Papi’s Tacos?
According to the Barrales family, first-time visitors should absolutely start with the tacos.
Popular menu favorites include:
- Carne Asada Tacos
- Al Pastor Tacos
- Carnitas
- Shrimp Tacos
- Birria Tacos
- Tortas
- House-made guacamole and salsa
The menu stays intentionally simple, focusing on quality and authentic flavors over a huge selection.
Papi’s Kitchen: The New West End Expansion
In March 2026, the Barrales family expanded their Greenville restaurant footprint by transforming their Augusta Street location into Papi’s Kitchen, a more upscale Mexican dining experience.
While the original River Street location continues operating as Papi’s Tacos, Papi’s Kitchen offers:
- Elevated Mexican cuisine
- Full bar service
- Expanded indoor and outdoor seating
- Weekend brunch
- Refined dishes like duck mole and shrimp aguachile
The new concept gives diners two different ways to experience the Papi’s brand:
- Papi’s Tacos: Casual, quick-service street tacos on the river
- Papi’s Kitchen: A more elevated sit-down dining experience in the West End
What Locals Are Saying About Papi’s Tacos
“yum yum yum yum yum!! They are delicious!” — Heather Nicole Campbell
“We love it because it’s delicious food, right along the Reedy River, and next to the splash pad my kids love!” — Shannon Fleming
“Love this place.” — Morgan Remelgado
“My grandson’s favorite place to eat in Greenville.” — Cecelia Hamilton
Papi’s Tacos Greenville Information
Papi’s Tacos – River Street
📍 300 River Street #123, Greenville, SC 29601
📞 (864) 373-7274
Current Hours:
- Tuesday–Thursday: 11 am–6 pm
- Friday–Saturday: 11 am–8 pm
- Sunday: 11 am–5 pm
- Monday: Closed
Papi’s Kitchen – West End
📍 21 Augusta Street, Greenville, SC 29601
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