Papa’s Tapas is a staple in the Delray Beach community, serving traditional Spanish cuisine since 2008. This family-owned restaurant is a true labor of love.
From Papa’s paella and pistachio fan to Mama’s chicken vegetable soup and coconut yuca cake, the menu is inspired by authentic Spanish flavors and ingredients. It celebrates Papa’s culinary heritage from Alicante, Spain, and pays homage to his mother, who was a top chef in Spain.
While tradition is important to the Papa’s Tapas family, Papa & his daughter have decided to take the restaurant to a new level. They recently announced that franchising opportunities are now available, both in the United States and internationally.
But don’t think that just anyone can handle the Papa’s Tapas Delray tradition. The family remains true to the same integrity, hospitality, and flavor that have always been at its core — and now, people all over the world will have an opportunity to savor it.
This is just one of many new and exciting things happening at Papa’s Tapas. Weekly specials include daily happy hour from 3-6 pm, and Tapas Tuesdays, when 30 different menu items are 50% off, allowing guests to have the ultimate Spanish tapas dinner party at the restaurant without breaking the bank. On Thursday nights from 5-8 pm, it’s all about celebrating girls’ night out! Ladies Night features half-priced sangria, beer, and classic cocktails.
Speaking of sangria — Papa’s Tapas is known for theirs! Available in both red and white, the signature sangria is a must-have whenever visiting the restaurant. Even better when it’s discounted!
Papa’s Tapas is currently participating in Delray Beach Restaurant Month, which lasts the entire month of September. It’s a STEAL of a deal: 3 courses for $45! On top of two tapas-style courses and one main dish option, diners can also choose between a glass of that famous sangria or one of the house-made desserts. Make sure to take advantage of this prix fixe menu while you can!
My Favorite Things to Order at Papa’s Tapas
Tapas-style dining refers to a popular way of Spanish culinary culture that focuses on small plates of food, meant to be shared among friends and served with drinks. Personally, I prefer this way of eating because it allows you to try a little bit of everything.
Here are a few of my favorites from the menu at Papa’s Tapas. You can’t go wrong with any of these choices!
Gambas Al Ajillo is a very common Spanish dish consisting of shrimp sautéed with garlic, olive oil, and white wine. It’s a flavor bomb, for sure. When it’s served at the table, you can still hear the sizzle — one of the most delicious sounds you can hear. Fresh garlic and high-quality olive oil are important ingredients to Spanish cooking, and there is certainly no shortage of either when it comes to Papa’s menu. These are present in almost everything you’ll get.
If you’re a plantain fan like I am, you have to try the ‘Sweet Angels.’ Sweet plantains are wrapped in applewood bacon and drizzled with butter brandy. Now, I can’t have the butter — which I’m sure is amazing — but even without that drizzle, it’s still so delicious with the perfect balance of sweet and salty in every bite.
As much as you’ll want to fill up on all the yummy tapas, make sure to leave some room for Papa’s signature paella. Each paella dish uses traditional saffron rice and is made to order. So, yes, it takes some time. I highly recommend putting in your paella order toward the beginning of the meal, as it takes about an hour. They are priced out per person, so the size will depend on the amount of people in your party.
The Valencia is my favorite. It has everything! Chicken, shrimp, scallops, calamari, clams, mussels, and mahi. Other options include the seafood-only Marinera with lobster, shrimp, scallops, calamari, clams, mussels, and mahi; the Vegetariana with broccoli, zucchini, squash, peas, and carrots; and the Arroz con Pollo with — you guessed it — chicken.
If you’re craving some red meat, go for the grilled skirt steak. I tried it for the first time recently, and oh my goodness — it was cooked to sheer perfection. Juicy and tender medium rare with a beautiful charred exterior. It comes with your choice of grilled onions and mushrooms or homemade chimichurri. I will always choose chimichurri, given the option. This velvety smooth blend of herbs and spices is so bright and flavorful, and compliments steak so well.
There is plenty on the menu that is naturally gluten and dairy free, making it a very appealing place for those with dietary restrictions or allergies. The staff is super knowledgeable about the menu and is happy to accommodate.
A night out at Papa’s Tapas is like taking a trip to Old World Spain without ever having to leave the comfort of Downtown Delray Beach. The recipes have been passed down through generations. The family connection is strong. The flavors are even stronger, in the best way possible.
Papa’s Tapas is located at 259 NE 2nd Avenue in Delray Beach. The restaurant is open Monday through Thursday from 11:30 am-10 pm, Friday from 11:30 am-11 pm, Saturday from 12-11 pm, and Sunday from 3-10 pm.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post by Papa’s Tapas.
FAQs
Yes! There is a kids menu available for children 12 and under.
Reservations can be made using OpenTable. It’s not required but highly recommended during South Florida’s busy season, which typically lasts from October through May.
To find out more about how to purchase your own Papa’s Tapas franchise, call 561-403-9823 or email [email protected].
