Papalo Spices Up La Mesa With Global BBQ Fusion

Papalo, the brainchild of Executive Chef Drew Bent and the City Tacos crew, is back and better than ever, with international flair meets smoky goodness.

Chef Drew isn’t messing around. With world-class training and a knack for pushing culinary boundaries, he’s taking BBQ to places it’s never been before.

“We’re not just slapping sauce on ribs,” Chef Drew tells us. “Papalo is where BBQ meets the world. It’s comfort food with a passport.”

More Than Just a Meal

Papalo isn’t just serving up plates—they’re dishing out experiences. Imagine the smoky essence of your favorite BBQ but with flavors that’ll take you on a global tour.

You don’t need to be a food snob to enjoy it. Papalo’s all about keeping things approachable, consistent, and wallet-friendly. Plus, the staff’s so nice, you might just want to invite them to your next backyard BBQ.

Nestled right in the heart of La Mesa, Papalo’s got that warm, “come on in” vibe that’ll make you want to stay awhile. Whether you’re a die-hard BBQ fan or just looking to shake up your dinner routine, this place is calling your name.

See You There!

Papalo’s doors are open Tuesday through Sunday, 11 AM to 8:30 PM. You’ll find them at 8323 La Mesa Blvd, right next to City Tacos. Pro tip: They’re closed on Mondays, so plan your BBQ cravings accordingly!

For a sneak peek at the deliciousness, check out their Instagram. For more info on Papalo BBQ, visit the website here.

See you there, San Diego!

Share This Post
The Latest
things to do in san diego this weekend
Check out this week’s Things to Do in San Diego this weekend and make your plans! Spend a day at the San Diego County Fair,...
Festival Atmosphere at the Field of Dreamz Festival in Petco Park
Here are the top concerts in San Diego this week! We are stacked with unforgettable live music, from legendary rock icons to smooth jazz favorites...
Rendering Moniker General downtown san diego
Moniker General is coming downtown, and honestly, it makes all the sense in the world. The coffee and cocktail concept that helped shape Liberty Station...
La Mesa Oktoberfest
Join the fun at La Mesa Oktoberfest! Enjoy live entertainment, games, and great food in San Diego's biggest German celebration.
Toro Nagashi
Toro Nagashi Festival at the Japanese Friendship Garden is where a ceremony with floating lanterns is done in honor of those who have passed.
The Museum of Photographic Arts at the San Diego Museum of Art is hosting a special film screening of John Huston’s classic 1952 film Moulin...
Recently Featured Restaurants
Moniker General is coming downtown, and honestly, it makes all the sense in the world. The coffee and cocktail concept that helped shape Liberty Station...
Little Italy is getting a new coffee spot this summer, and it’s coming from one of the neighborhood’s most respected kitchens. Cloak & Petal –...
Downtown San Diego is getting exactly the kind of neighborhood spot it deserves. Pear Plum is an all-day café, specialty coffee shop, and wine bar...
Something genuinely intriguing opened along the 101 in Encinitas, and it’s not giving much away. Anigma is a new hidden cocktail bar from the owners...
À L’ouest San Diego
TRUST Restaurant Group just opened À L’ouest, their 13th restaurant and most ambitious project to date, on the prominent corner of 30th and University in...
Bacari, the family-owned Mediterranean small plates restaurant, just opened its doors in North Park, and it’s taking over the beloved two-story building at 30th and...