Papi's Cuban & Caribbean Grill — Restaurant in Atlanta

We've loved Papis for years, but we've been relegated to take out during the pandemic. I stopped ordering through take out services (e.g. Doordash) because they always seemed to forget part of my order (particularly drinks) when I ordered from that particular restaurant, and I'd have to spend 30 minutes on the phone with the company trying the get a credit. When I realized the Krog Street location was now open, we were thrilled so I placed an online order last night.

I was surprised to get a text and email pretty quickly confirming that my order was ready for pickup, but we decided to head over anyway. When we got there my husband said the front desk person first said he didn't have an order under my name, then told him it would be ready in "2 minutes" (again, we received confirmation that it was ready BEFORE we left home). 10 minutes later, he got our food. The biggest shock though was opening the entree containers. They smashed all the foods together (rice, beans, meat, maduros, sauce, what appears to be pico de gallo) so it looked like an absolute mess (please see pics). I didn't even want a sauce, but the online service forces you to pick one. I've never in my life seen a restaurant mix a side sauce into your food (and not serve it on the side). Our kids wouldn't eat any of it (for obvious reasons). I was absolutely shocked they would serve food this way. I've ordered takeout from Papis MANY times. Entrees are always served in the multi section type containers so each item is separate. Beans are always served in a separate container with their natural juice. I've never seen anything like this - it's not an appetizing presentation to say the least so beware if you order from the new KSM location. I suspect it's only happening there and hopefully they will correct these issues as the food is usually quite good. I will continue to support them on the rate occasion when I can trek to Ponce/Myrtle in person, but the KSM location has some...

Stopped here with a friend for lunch, after an Elevation Worship pop up in Atlanta! Had an amazing time at Papi's!!.. wasn't expecting that much out of a small Cuban restaurant, but you know how it is, when you just craving some great Cuban food! We had grilled chicken platters, with black beans, veg. and rice, with plantains and a yucca! Top it off with a couple Cafe Con leche's and some Cuban toast,.. the food entrees, Cafe coffee's, and a couple specialty drinks, that were actually taken back twice to resemble 1' we asked about, but not on their menu, and without 1' complaint from us, she insisted on redoing them until she felt they were made just right, without even asking'!?.. I must say, Service like that', especially these days'?.. in my opinion is nothing short of Amazing!! The taste, quality, and care given to prepare everything served to us, was exactly how I remembered it years ago!!.. Compliments to the chef and all the crew in the kitchen,☝🏼😎🤌🏼 simply Awesome!! And our wonderful waitress, tender, all the staff and crew,.. a special thanks to all of you🙏🏼, who had a part in making our Great Day in Atlanta,.. feel Priceless!!.. and definitely 1' to Remember❣️ Well Done 🙌🏼, Thank You🙏🏼 for Excellent Vibes, Outstanding Authentic Cuban Taste, and Truly, the Best Service, Kindness, and Care shown, that I have seen in years!.. 1' that you can still Feel'... not forced, faked, thrown out or forgotten, like so many Values we had, have become Today. All packed into this little spot called Papi's downtown, is Well worth the Big V. I. P. Treatment we felt that Day! Bringing back the Love'.. 1' Lil spot at a time!! If you're downtown be sure to stop in to give a little, and get back A...

This is not my first time eating at Papi’s; in fact, I’ve been a loyal customer for years, frequenting both this location and the one in Stockbridge. However, this year has marked a steep decline, and today I reached my breaking point. Even 24 hours later, my frustration hasn’t subsided, compelling me to share this experience.

With a craving for Cuban food, I committed to a 30-minute drive, only to be served pure disappointment. Flavorless food: The food was shockingly bland, lacking even a hint of the rich, bold flavors one expects from authentic Cuban cuisine. Coming from Miami, I know what these dishes should taste like. The congri, pork, and tostones were flavorless, devoid of any seasoning that might hint at their heritage. It was a betrayal of the cuisine’s vibrant reputation. Shrinking portions: The serving sizes were noticeably smaller than in my previous visits, leaving me questioning the value for my money. Unacceptable service: The gentleman at the counter was dismissive and inattentive, treating me as though I was an inconvenience rather than a paying customer. The look of irritation on his face made it clear that he had no interest in providing decent service. It was as if my presence alone was a nuisance.

I left hoping to salvage my day with a satisfying meal, but that hope was dashed after the first bite.

Final verdict: I couldn’t bring myself to finish it—I threw the food away in disgust. To be honest, I cook better than this. Papi’s, you need...