Papa's and Beer: A Casual Mexican Restaurant in Myrtle Beach

What Papa's and Beer Offers

Papa's and Beer is a casual Mexican restaurant in Myrtle Beach known for its laid-back atmosphere, generous portions, and straightforward menu of tacos, burritos, enchiladas, and grilled seafood. The restaurant draws a steady crowd of locals and visitors looking for unpretentious Mexican food without table service formality—you order at the counter and find a seat in the dining room or on the patio.

The space itself reflects the casual vibe: colorful décor, a full bar with beer on tap, and an open kitchen where you can watch food being prepared. Papa's and Beer sits on North Kings Highway in the heart of Myrtle Beach's restaurant district, making it easy to find and accessible whether you're staying nearby or exploring the area.

Key Takeaways

• Papa's and Beer operates as a counter-service restaurant, so you order at the counter and carry your food to a table rather than waiting for server service.
• The menu centers on traditional Mexican dishes—tacos, burritos, enchiladas, quesadillas—plus grilled fish and shrimp options that reflect the coastal location.
• The restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, with a full bar serving beer, margaritas, and other drinks.
• Pricing is moderate for the Myrtle Beach area, with most entrées in the mid-range for a casual dining experience.

Menu Highlights and What to Order

The menu stays focused rather than sprawling. Tacos come in several varieties—carnitas, carne asada, fish, and shrimp—and you can build them to your preference with toppings like cilantro, onion, and lime. Burritos and enchiladas follow the same approach, with options to add cheese, sour cream, or salsa. The kitchen also prepares quesadillas and chile rellenos for those wanting something beyond the standard offerings.

Because Papa's and Beer sits on the coast, the seafood options stand out. Grilled fish tacos and shrimp burritos use fresh catch rather than frozen, and the preparation is straightforward—grilled protein with simple toppings that let the seafood flavor come through. Sides include rice, beans, and chips with salsa, which arrive quickly after you order.

The bar menu emphasizes beer—both domestic and Mexican imports on tap—alongside margaritas and standard cocktails. The beer selection is the draw here; if you're looking for a cold drink with your meal, Papa's and Beer delivers without pretense.

Atmosphere and When to Go

The restaurant fills up during lunch and dinner hours, particularly on weekends and during the summer tourist season. If you prefer a quieter experience, weekday afternoons or early evening before 6 p.m. tend to be less crowded. The counter-service model means lines can form during peak times, but they move fairly quickly since the kitchen operates efficiently.

The patio seating is popular on warm days and offers a view of the surrounding commercial area. The indoor dining room has a casual, family-friendly feel—you'll see groups of tourists, families with children, and locals grabbing lunch or dinner. The noise level is typical for a casual restaurant: lively but not overwhelming.

Location and Parking

Papa's and Beer is located on North Kings Highway in Myrtle Beach, in a commercial area with other restaurants and shops nearby. Parking is available in a lot adjacent to the restaurant, which is convenient during most times of the day. During peak summer season or major events in Myrtle Beach, parking can be tight, but the lot usually has space.

The restaurant is accessible by car from most parts of Myrtle Beach within 10 to 15 minutes. If you're staying at a hotel on the beach or in the downtown area, a short drive or ride-share trip will get you there without difficulty.

Price Range and Payment

Entrées at Papa's and Beer typically fall in the $10 to $18 range, with tacos and burritos on the lower end and combination plates or seafood dishes on the higher end. Sides, drinks, and desserts are priced separately. For a casual meal in Myrtle Beach, this represents moderate pricing—not budget dining, but not upscale either.

The restaurant accepts cash and card payments at the counter. Tipping is standard practice at counter-service restaurants; most customers leave 15 to 20 percent for the staff who prepare and serve the food.

What Makes Papa's and Beer Different

Unlike sit-down Mexican restaurants with full table service, Papa's and Beer prioritizes speed and simplicity. You know what you're getting—fresh ingredients, straightforward preparation, and no surprises. The counter-service model appeals to people who want a meal without waiting for a server or lingering over a table.

The seafood focus also sets it apart from typical Mexican restaurants. While traditional Mexican cuisine features plenty of fish and shrimp, many casual Mexican spots in tourist areas lean heavily on beef and chicken. Papa's and Beer gives equal weight to grilled fish and shrimp, which makes sense given Myrtle Beach's coastal setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Papa's and Beer take reservations?

No. The restaurant operates on a first-come, first-served basis. You order at the counter and find your own seating. During busy times, there may be a short wait, but the counter-service model keeps lines moving.

Can I get food to go?

Yes. You can order at the counter for takeout and eat elsewhere, or dine in. Takeout orders are prepared the same way as dine-in orders and are ready within the same timeframe.

Are there vegetarian options?

Yes. You can order bean burritos, cheese quesadillas, chile rellenos, and vegetable-based tacos. Ask the staff at the counter about customizing any dish to remove meat and add extra vegetables or beans.

What are the hours of operation?

Hours vary by season and day of the week. Call ahead or check online before visiting, especially if you're planning to go early in the morning or late in the evening, as hours may differ from typical restaurant times.

Is the patio open year-round?

The patio is typically open during warmer months and may close or have limited use during winter. Weather and season affect outdoor seating availability, so check ahead if outdoor dining is important to your visit.