This is what I call GOOD FOOD!!! I imagine this is a place all locals know about. It's fresh, the food comes out quick, it's not overly spiced (where it makes your stomach unsettled) but it's full of flavor. I usually get al pastor tacos because I love the pineapple but my dad actually got the "Cabeza" one and yes.... That does mean "head" in Spanish. My mom goes "idk probably some part of the cows head" bc I was like okay but what do you mean???? Tbh it was so good I could have eaten 4 of just those. So, here's to trying different foods! It'll surprise you! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

I'm Mexican and raised in east LA (visit the homeland every year if that gives me any credibility) and was raised on the street tacos. I moved to dc about ten years ago and have tried a lot of places and none of them any good. These were the best I've had in the DMV. Parking is terrible but if you get lucky you can park right next to the truck. They give you a free taco since it's your first time! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Asada and alpastor - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Great tacos featuring good flavor, meat, leanness vs. fattiness ratio and spicy sauce. I ordered on the phone and stopped by the food truck to pick up 7 tacos and they were kind enough to offer one extra on the house (I think they had me try their cabeza which was nice and tender. I'd come back if I were craving tacos. I've had other popular taco spots in the area that were disappointing, too greasy, etc -- these hit the spot. I'd recommend the Al pastor. The food truck was tucked in a street with parking nearby! read more

So good and so authentic. I ordered the pastor tacos which were fab and flavorful. The tortillas were strangely smooth but not a big deal. These are probably the best tacos I've had in the area (comparable to LA!). It was cash only, and they didn't have change for $20, so they gave me the tacos for free and told me to pay next time. So nice. The service was good. I will be back and definitely recommend! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Pastor Tacos - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

These tacos are soo good and fresh!!! I lived in Los Angeles for 6 years (where food truck tacos are common and delicious), and this experience totally compares. I ordered beef tacos, and the chef asked if I wanted to try a pork taco for free to see if I liked it. First of all, so nice. Second of all, I'm getting the pork tacos more often now! A few notes to know before you go: - They only have tacos (no sides like beans, rice, chips, etc) - They only take cash! (there's an ATM across the street if needed) read more

See all

The best tacos in the area! Hands down. This little truck off of Columbia Pike is a hidden, but not-so-secret treasure. I came here with several friends close to closing and unfortunately, they were out of tortillas, lengua, and cabeza. They said some more tortillas would be coming if we were willing to wait an extra 10 mins. No worries because we'd been looking forward to this all day. The workers were super kind and accommodating with our orders and even ended up staying passed their posted hours. It's a place with many local, regulars with whom the workers know all their names. Some even stick around to hang out. Our food came out a little while later and we made the trek home to eat them. Everything was fresh and tasty. We ordered a little bit of everything still available-- asada, chorizo, al pastor, pollo, and the mixto. It came with salsa verde and one spicy, as well as the pickled onions, cucumbers, and limes. We topped itboff with Grapefruit Jarritos (only flavor left). My faves were the mixto and the chorizo! Although, next time I definitely need to get the cabeza and the lengua. I will be back veryyy soon and will ensure I go earlier in the day. SO GOOD! read more

See all

Haven't had tacos this good since Mexico. This is the spot for sure. The costumer service as well was amazing. The whole vibe of the spot was very very good real authenticity. read more

I've been coming here for years and I'll always stay loyal. They're so authentic, flavorful, the tortillas are always fresh never stale or old you can taste it, the Fresca are always fresh. The owner is ALWAYS nice and welcoming to everyone. I see complaints about the Cash $$ only, but I think that's the beauty of the experience and authenticity/culture. Sometimes it's better not to change things. Theres a restaurant that should be opening soon! read more

See all

$2.50 a taco? Sign me up. I travel to the West Coast a lot and am used to $1 street tacos, $2 street tacos... so this is the closest I'll get to that affordability while also having a satisfying meal. Not only does Pa' Taco hit the spot, the owner is really kind and makes sure you are taken care of. We love the Al Pastor, Mixto, and Lengua tacos. Tired of paying $4 for a lame taco? Head to Pa' Tacos El Papi! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - When you miss West Coast street tacos, this is the closest thing! ;) - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

Same great taste ... in the same horrible place. Again, the food is so freaking good. The location of the truck, however, is trash. This food truck is located on a real slim street with very limited parking. I didn't mind it so much when they would accept my call in order and I'd just pick it up, but calling to place an order is hit or miss. They could be working on the truck but if it gets too busy or close to closing time, they do not answer. Not only is it a hassle to get to the food truck if you aren't in walking distance, but their accepted method of payment could use improvements. It is 2021, why are they only accepting cash? For about a month they were also accepting Venmo or card, but they recently went back to cash only and posted their 'cash only' sign again. Talk about pissed when I got to the truck and realized there was a change again, and I didn't have cash. All in all, good food and great people, but there's always room for improvement. read more

See all

I have been coming here for years! The service is excellent, the food is delicious, the quality is the best. All has remained so consistent over the years. Which is why I keep coming back and back. So good, I would even say the best of NoVa. Definitely recommend it! read more

Everyone has their own taste in tacos. I get it! And I do have an appreciation for all types of tacos. But these tacos from Pa Tacos El Papi definitely scream "authentic!" I actually was never a fan of al pastor tacos but I really do love the way they make them here. I haven't tried the lengua tacos just yet, so until then I will say that the al pastor tacos are my favorite from this spot. If you head over, keep in mind that this is a food truck and parking isn't the easiest to find. I do promise you that the headache or parking will be worth it. Definitely check it out! read more

See all

Food and Service are top notch. I would say this truck is on par if not better than Tortas Y Tacos La Chaquita! Only draw back is the location can be a pain with parking and logistics can be a nightmare if you need to wait for more than a few minutes. Otherwise the tacos are great, the people are nice, and the truck is clean and nicely decorated. A regular favorite in our take out repertoire! CASH ONLY! read more

Best tacos and amazing service! Visiting from NJ/NYC and found this gem, they were amazing! We got steak, al pastor and chicken tacos the gentleman provided my friend and I horchata that was to die for!! Highly recommended! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Al Pastor tacos - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

If you don't go get these tacos! You don't really love tacos. They don't take very long and all cooked fresh to order. I like that they are cheap, super filling, and came with some nice pallets cleansers. I always enjoy the crunch of radish, cucumber, and limes with my tacos too. There were plenty of return customers there so I was assured Thai place was solid. They did not let me down. The tacos were super flavorful, fresh, juicy, and stuffed with meat. I definitely recommend this place for a quick bite on the go! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

I just moved from California and stumbled upon this hidden gem. The staff in the truck was Uber friendly and so welcoming. I instantly felt like I was part of their family. The tacos were delicious and the Al Pastor (that came with a bit of pineapple) was outstanding. If you're in the mood for some authentic Mexican food, this is the spot read more

So good and the guys are so nice What more can you ask for? I tried the beef tongue, which sounded awkward at first but the owner gave me one for free to try. I bought 6 more for friends and family lol. He also gave me a drink...I was back the following week. I did notice that eating the tacos on the spot, the shell was crunchier (I liked it more). When u bring it back, its like soft corn tortilla shells, still yummy though read more

Great customer service Was really pleased with my decision to come here I ordered the El Pastor tacos....seasoned great Repeating I am pleased with my decision and Will definitely go back Plus I drove from Waldorf MD just to try this spot out read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Beef taco - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Authentic and delicious! Prices must have gone up because the tacos were $3 each as of a few days ago. Service was very quick and packaged well to take home and they stayed hot/didn't spill. Just stuck with Al Pastor and they did not disappoint. On the smaller side, but filled with goodness! Parking is definitely a pain... but service is quick so you won't need to leave your car very long. I also am not sure if they accept card/Apple Pay because there was a sign in the window that said cash only so I paid with cash. read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Al Pastor - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

Yelpers were right! This amazing taco truck will forever be on my list! Yes, it's worth the drive and we drove out from Burke! The guys on the truck were so awesome! They were helpful and explained everything to us! Great street tacos are SO hard to find. The prices ($2.5) are incredible. They serve tacos and beverages! It's all you need. A checkin on Yelp provided us with a free soda! A first time customer also gave us a complimentary taco! This truck has got some awesome service and they know how to treat their customers. The tacos: we ordered the beef and pork. They will ask you if you want the cilantro, onions, radishes, and cucumbers! Yes, yes, and yes! Get it all, and the lime is what gives these tacos the kick. The meat was fresh and I could hear the cooking in the truck. These are not pre-made! The corn tortillas(double wrap) are as authentic as the ones in California and Mexico! They generously fill them with meat and and condiments! NOW, they also offer "habanero" slices... and my brave hubby tried it! HOLY HABANERO .... tears came down like a rainstorm! The red sauce was enough for me! Get your tacos here! Make the drive! Preorder if you want because parking is a bit tight. They will prepare for takeout or dine there! It was breezy and shady when we went so we ate there! Dam, my review makes me want to eat there today! read more

See all

First time coming to this food truck and it was a great experience. The cooks are friendly and hooked it up with a el pastor taco for 1st timers. The tortillas are nicely made. Every meat had a great amount of flavor. Their red spicy sauce is amazing and the taco were delicious! If you're ever in Arlington by Carlin Springs, make sure to check their spots. It's cash only. read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Tacos de pollo, asada and pork. - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

This place is absolutely . My first time trying it as I was close by and it did not disappoint. The only thing better than the tacos was the customer service. It's rare to see businesses go above and beyond to make sure you're satisfied. 10/10 read more

There aren't enough stars on Yelp for this place. Outside of going to a Mexican friends home for them to make me home-made tacos - this is the *only* place I will go. Remember when you walked out of your office to go down the street to grab tacos in CDMX for lunch? Or maybe because we were not in the mood to cook anything but want the exact same food you'd find *in Mexico*. Pues, aquí tienes. This is the only place in Arlington that ACTUALLY has the authentic styles of street tacos you'll find in Mexico. Here is what I recommend. 1. Bring plenty of cash 2. Order 1 taco and stand there and eat the one. 3. Remember step 1 above and order 6 more. 3 for you and 3 (or more) for a friend. You're welcome. read more

Great tacos! So they came to a friend's outdoor event. Friendly, hard working duo made some great tacos. I'd love to try them again.

The best tacos in the DMV located in arlington honestly the best customer service as well and the tacos never disappoint will definitely recommend been coming to here for over 7 years now read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi is a taco truck on Columbia Pike, near the county line. I've seen it for a while and finally had a chance to visit. The man and woman running the truck were very friendly. I ordered two al pastor tacos and one chicken taco. I agree with the other reviewer-chicken was a bit bland, and maybe needs a marinade or more seasoning. Al pastor tacos are much more flavorful, as the meat is more seasoned. I plan on trying a carne asada one soon. All the typical accompaniments--lime, radish, cucumber, salsa verde, and salsa rojo were present. At $2 each ($2.50 for lengua), you can't go wrong with these tasty tacos. read more

See all

Amazing tacos! It was hard to find this food truck, but it was well worth the effort. The tacos reminded me of street tacos of Mexico City. The owner/operator is super friendly and accommodating. Definitely a good find. read more

Awesome folks Great service Great food Cash Only Located on the service road Big White truck You can't and shouldn't miss it read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

If y'all want hair on your tacos, then this is the place! Went there bc a good friend had recommended them, but turned out completely disappointed & DISGUSTED. This is only 1 video but i have several more where you can see the hair between the meat, the chicken, the tortilla.. my 5 yr old daughter took a bite & felt the hairs & took 2 out of her mouth. Also.. customer service, specially with the owner is HORRIBLE. It's been almost a week now & they still don't want to take responsibility or give me my refund. If I could give -1 stars I would. read more

I went there Sunday .. tacos were delicious don't get me wrong ... but hours later my 2 year old got sick and so did I ... I had to take my daughter to the hospital due to high fever and throwing up .. they told us she had food poisoning ...they need to really check what they serve read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

The DMV area does not have many gems like Pa Tacos El Papi that hit the taco trifecta: flavor, execution, and price. At first, I was thinking 4 stars for this place but the fact that they're doing it up right and way better than some of their competitors in brick and mortar spots so I had to give props to them. The truck location is not exactly the most convenient but the tacos are worth it. When we went, it was parked on the corner of S Jefferson St & Columbia Pike on the access road. I imagine parking would be worse as you getting closer to 5-6pm since the street parking is mostly for the apartments in the area. This is everything that a taco truck should be! Plenty of options: carne asada, al pastor, mixto (beef and pork), lengua (for an extra 50 cents), chicken, and chorizo. My favorite was the al pastor. I liked the carne asada but it could have used just a bit more flavor....next time I need more lime! These tacos are served up fresh, easy to eat (double tortillas and meat is chopped up for perfect bites), standard toppings (let them know if you want raw onion, cilantro, lime, radish, or cucumbers). There are two hot sauces, green and red, and I only had the red because I was told the green was wayyyy spicy. All of that quality and only $2.50 each! Thank you all for the great yelper reviews to steer me towards this awesome taco truck! read more

Mexicana en DC transplant here ‍ the biggest struggle moving to DC from SoCal has been finding good, legit, authentic Mexican food. I've tried several other places hoping to find a good street taco and even though they have good yelp reviews, they aren't that great. This place though!!! ITS LEGIT! the family that runs the business is actually from Mexico City so it's authentic. The meat is good, the flavors are there, and the salsas are super good!! My favorite tacos are the cabeza and Al pastor. My least favorite thing about this place is the location bc it's not easily accessible or easy to park but it's a minor inconvenience for getting real good street tacos. read more

Best tacos I've had in a while. If you're looking for a hidden gem then this is it. Great customer service

This was the first time going, I'm from Mexico City and this tacos are legit, also their horchata water is so good!!! This is the best food truck in the whole DVM! read more

One of the best taco trucks I've been to, the service and the food quality is impeccable. The owner of the truck stayed extra late for us and had such a smile on his face. Will never forget this experience. Please try this place out!! Worth it 100% read more

Tacos were good but... the chicken kind of threw me off and gave me a slight stomach ache. I'll be sticking to the asada read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

We had Pa' Tacos El Papi cater a special celebration for my husband and all of our friends and the food was amazing, An absolute hit with everyone. Part of what made it so special was how Valvina prepared it on the grill right in our back yard. The care she put into the preparation of everything from the quick set up, to the cooking, to wrapping up all the leftovers for me afterward was high quality and efficient. They are very professional. (And the tacos were DELICIOSO)!!! We will definitely use this business again! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Pa' Tacos El Papi preparing tacos for our backyard party with friends. - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

See all

OMG!! Best tacos ever, carne asada are the best.... salsa it's really good, I love me some Mexican tacos and this place it's one of the best in the area.. I would recommend it to anyone who would ask me about tacos.. this it's the place to be. It's family owned and the guys are very friendly.. it's so such a nice place.. 5 starts because it's authentic Mexican tacos !! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - I love this place.!! Amazing tacos !! Tacos de chorizo - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

The pork tacos are sooo good here! The guys who run this joint are super nice as well! read more

Pa' Tacos El Papi - Beef and pork tacos! - Food Trucks Near Me - Arlington, Virginia

I've finally found my favorite taco truck!!! Pa' Tacos El Papi is located on Columbia Pike & Jefferson, right in front of a residential building on a side street. It's not easy to miss, as you'll see a nice long line of loyal patrons. The menu is short and sweet, offering 6 different types of tacos: Al Pastor, Carne Asada, Pollo, Mixto (chorizo and asada), Lengua, and Chorizo. I tried the Carne Asada, the Pollo, the Mixto, and the Chorizo - they all come in a slightly-fried, double-layer of corn tortillas, filled with a generous amount of juicy & tasty meat, and topped with diced white onions (I opted out of cilantro); it also comes with a side of lime and sliced radish (they're already seasoned!), and cups of green and habanero sauce. My favorite was the Mixto and the Carne Asada, the Mixto having that nice salty kick from the chorizo, but still not having to miss out on those carne asada chunks; the hubs was a fan of their Al Pastor. That red habanero sauce? MAN! While it was hardcore spicy, it was super flavorful and yummy and added a great kick to the tacos. We were such huge fans that we shoved them all in our mouths and finished in about 5 minutes, and then went back to get ANOTHER round of tacos AHAHAHA Mr. Luis and Mr. Gabriel were both sooo unbelievably professional, oh-so-sweet, and very detail-oriented; they both made sure that everything was satisfying (which it totally was!)! Just note that this is cash-only. Definitely check Pa' Tacos El Papi out - if you're craving for authentic, delicious, addicting tacos, check them out - you won't be disappointed!!! :D +Mixto taco +Carne Asada taco +red habanero sauce +ask for Mr. Luis and Mr. Gabriel :D +cash only +limited curbside parking in front of residential area read more

See all