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Tucson's best

Tamales food spots

There is a specific comfort in a warm, handmade tamale.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Rancheros Carnicería Grant image 1
Rancheros Carnicería Grant image 2
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Butcher shop deli combines fresh meat grilling with a small seating area serving authentic Mexican dishes. The space feels modern, clean, and welcoming, with an airy layout that invites browsing. Friendly energy fills the room as customers enjoy both shopping and eating on-site.

Fresh tamales come with a variety of dry and canned goods, veggies, and cheeses available. Prices stay reasonable, making it easy to grab a satisfying dinner.

Fresh meat options come with the choice to have it cooked, butchered, and packaged alongside sides. The food offers authentic Mexican flavors and consistently delivers delicious meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The meats at this market are so fresh and flavorful."

"I found the tamales here delicious and wonderful."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide selection of fresh meats and Mexican products.

2

Prices are considered very low for the quality of meat available.

3

Catering services are available for events and gatherings.

02
AMELIAS MEXICAN KITCHEN image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers an intimate, modern space with arts-inspired decor and maximum seating capacity. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, enhanced by salsa and merengue music and a busy, energetic crowd. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed option for seating.

Tamales come in several varieties like beef, red, and tamales con huevos with perfectly cooked eggs. Mini chimis and the bira tamales also stand out for their flavor.

Mexican food here stands out for its excellent quality and delicious flavors. The dining experience pairs great service with authentic Sonoran dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food to be wonderful and delicious."

"The birria ramen combo is a unique and delicious dinner spot."

"I found the tamales here to be delicious and well-seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Taco Tuesday to avoid long wait times.

2

Happy hour features buy one get one half off deals on select drinks.

3

Expect a busy crowd during Taco Tuesday; arrive early for the best experience.

03
HUMO COCINA MEXICANA image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, renovated Mexican restaurant offers covered patio with live music and comfortable outdoor seating with heaters and misters. Atmosphere feels authentic and fun, with a clean and cozy interior. Known for top-notch margaritas and standout dishes like chilaquiles and carne asada tacos.

Tamales come with red sauce that enhances their flavor. Options include Beef Tamales and tamales with eggs, all served with rice and refried beans.

Delicious Mexican food stands out with consistently excellent flavors. Service matches the food quality, making every visit smooth and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The food here is great and a fantastic value."

"I thought the Mexican food burritos were the best I have ever had."

"I found the tamales here to be just delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers $1.99 taco specials on Tuesdays.

2

Happy hour runs from 2:00 - 5:00 with $5 margaritas.

3

Live music is featured on Thursday nights.

04
Aguajito Meat Market image 1

Large grocery store offers fresh meats, homemade tamales, and warm corn tortillas with a variety of spicy salsas. Weekends feature an on-site grill preparing meats bought moments before. The atmosphere is lively and welcoming, attracting locals seeking authentic Mexican ingredients.

Fresh tamales come out on Tuesdays, featuring beef filled with green pepper, onion, and olive. Green corn tamales and homemade fresh corn tortillas also stand out alongside roasted chilies and red salsa.

Prepared foods stand out with fresh salsas and flavors that beat most grocery stores. Meat selections come with solid quality and taste.

People are saying

"The fresh salsas here are flavorful and packed a delicious heat."

"The beef tamales were incredible, filled with moist and savory beef."

"The prepared food, including the salsas, was excellent."

Good to know

1

Fresh tamales are available every Tuesday.

2

Chile árbol is a specialty item found only here.

3

The store offers a variety of fresh meats and vegetables.

05
Del Cielo Tamales Restaurant image 1

Mexican restaurant with cozy indoor and shaded outdoor seating featuring traditional clay dishware and warm wood finishes creates a homey vibe. Soft traditional Mexican music plays, adding a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The space welcomes diverse diners with vegan and gluten-free options and a dog-friendly patio.

Tamales here taste homemade and come in freshly made varieties like chicken, beef, and sweet green corn. Vegan options stand out as authentic and well-crafted, with all sauces made fresh too.

Food stands out with amazing Mexican dishes and some of the best tortillas around. Vegan options are excellent, and the overall quality makes it a favorite spot for hearty plates.

People are saying

"Their vegan food was amazing and high quality."

"The vegan food here is amazing, fresh, and high quality."

"The green corn tamales here are special and delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer all-you-can-eat buffets every Thursday and Saturday from 9 to 11:30 am.

2

The restaurant has a diverse vegan menu with many options.

3

Expect a wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

06
Plazita México Café image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers cozy, homey atmosphere with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, filled with locals who seem like regulars. It stands out for authentic, fresh Mexican food and a variety of margarita flavors.

Fresh tamales appear daily as specials, often paired with eggs, beans, and tortillas for breakfast. The tamales stand out for their excellent flavor and consistent quality.

Food here is consistently authentic Mexican with dishes that taste fresh and genuine. Service complements the excellent quality, making every meal satisfying and reliable.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is incredible and delicious."

"I loved the machaca and eggs for breakfast."

"I loved the tamales here; they were excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner on select nights.

2

The restaurant serves dinner from Wednesday through Sunday.

3

Parking is plentiful and easily accessible.

07
Perfecto's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Brightly painted interior with updated table settings creates a welcoming space. Energy centers on award-winning tamales, especially green corn tamales praised for their flavor and quality. Consistent food quality and a reputation for best tamales in town draw a steady local crowd.

Multiple awards highlight the Best Tamale of Tucson status here. The tamales feature good amounts of beef and a favorite green chile sauce, with the green corn tamale especially recommended.

Food stands out for being consistently very good and amazing. Service matches the quality of the food, maintaining a steady level of satisfaction.

People are saying

"I thought the tamales were totally awesome and delicious."

"These tamales are probably the best in town."

"I found the food here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long waits.

2

Expect a wait time for popular dishes like tamales, especially during holidays.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during busy times.

08
Mr. Toro Carnicería image 1
Butcher shop deli

Butcher shop deli combines clean, new space with an authentic Mexican meat market vibe. Open and lively atmosphere includes a taco shop and dine-in area offering traditional soups and dishes. Known for fresh, flavorful meats and a wide menu including tamales, caldos, and salsas.

Tamales come steaming hot with no fillers except one olive. They pack plenty of beef and offer varieties like red chili beef and green corn tamales.

Food here stays fresh and authentic with a great variety of Mexican items. Cuts of meat and prepared dishes come with top notch quality and good value, ready to eat or take home.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"I found this Mexican meat market to be phenomenal."

"I found the tamales steaming hot and delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer both eat-in and take-out options.

2

The place is very clean and well-maintained.

3

They serve a variety of traditional Mexican dishes and soups.

09
St. Mary's Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small takeout-only spot with no dine-in seating and several chairs to wait. Atmosphere feels clean and lively with a busy, inviting vibe. Known for authentic Mexican food with standout tamales and burritos.

Tamales feature moist and tender masa with chunks of sweet corn and melted cheese that create a rich texture and flavor. The green corn tamales offer a unique sweet taste that stands out.

Food offers great quality and delicious Mexican dishes at very affordable prices. Burritos stand out as a favorite, with consistently tasty fast food options available.

People are saying

"I ordered a dozen tamales and they were very good."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"You have to try the green corn tamales; they're sweet and unique."

Good to know

1

St. Mary's Mexican Food is a takeout-only restaurant with no seating available.

2

To order 2 dozen or more tamales, place an order in advance.

3

Tamales will be ready when you arrive if ordered in advance.

10
Cielos image 1
American restaurant

Courtyard with Southwestern charm features a tiled fireplace, fountain, and bird sculptures, creating a welcoming and relaxing atmosphere. Soft live music plays during dinner, enhancing the romantic and easygoing vibe. Outdoor patio and indoor spaces suit both intimate dates and semi-fancy family dinners.

Green tamales stand out with roasted green chili and poblano crema flavors. Vegetarian options include green corn tamales with calabacitas that deliver rich taste.

Food here stays consistently fresh and delicious. Every dish delivers an outstanding taste experience.

People are saying

"The food at this place's dinner spots is top-notch and flavorful."

"I found the food here to be truly exceptional."

"I thought the tamales here were outstanding and tasty."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6 PM daily.

2

The buffet costs $90 per person, which may not meet expectations.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for holiday events.

11
Carnicería Los Toritos image 1
Mexican grocery store

Mexican grocery store combines family-run atmosphere with well-stocked butcher and bakery sections. Warm, welcoming vibe fills the clean, organized space with authentic aromas. Fresh tortillas, homemade tamales, and a variety of meats stand out as distinctive offerings.

Homemade tamales cooked on-site by a personal cook stand out here. Options include vegan tamales and fresh tortillas, all made on premises alongside a meat counter.

Fresh meats, authentic Mexican ingredients, and Mexican bread stand out here. The variety of products includes quality bakery items and chicharrones, all tasting better than restaurant quality.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and well-selected."

"I loved the flavorful meat options at this grocery store."

"The tamales here are served by such friendly and dedicated staff."

Good to know

1

The butcher shop offers a wide selection of fresh meats and seafood.

2

The bakery features a variety of baked goods and Mexican candies.

3

The store is family-owned and family-run, providing a personal touch.

12
La Estrella Bakery Inc. image 1

Old-fashioned bakery with authentic Mexican pastries and fresh, thick tortillas fills with delicious aromas that create a cozy, homey atmosphere. It stays busy, especially early, drawing crowds for its soft conchas and varied sweet breads. Lines form quickly due to its reputation for quality and tradition.

Fresh beef tamales come in generous portions and offer a good flavor. A variety of tamales pairs well with pan dulce and tortillas available at the bakery.

Long lines show the food and rolls are popular. The menu offers fresh, delicious Mexican flavors with satisfying prices. Sweets and service also stand out.

People are saying

"I found some of the most delicious Mexican pastries here."

"I found the tortillas here to be excellent and fresh."

"I found the food here to be delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.

2

Parking is available on both sides of the building but can get hectic.

3

The bakery offers a great variety of authentic Mexican pastries and sweet breads.

13
Birrieria Guadalajara image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with an enclosed patio offers a homemade feel and authentic vibe reminiscent of taco places in Mexico. Atmosphere is relaxed and chill, filled with local charm rather than elegance. Limited seating and cash-only policy create an intimate, straightforward dining experience.

Green corn tamales stand out with their perfect moisture and full flavor. Fruit tamales, including a surprisingly yummy strawberry option, add variety to the menu.

Food features authentic Mexican cuisine with great seasoning, especially in the head burritos. Dishes taste like home cooking, made with simple, high-quality ingredients and a lot of care.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was the best I ever had."

"The Mexican food here is so authentic, just like Nana's kitchen."

"The green corn tamales were perfectly moist and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Birrieria Guadalajara only accepts cash or Zelle as payment methods.

2

Parking is very limited, with only two spots available for customers.

3

Seating is only available in an enclosed patio with fans and a swamp cooler.

14
Barista del Barrio image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Converted house offers covered outdoor seating with a quaint, cozy vibe and dog-friendly patios. The atmosphere feels artistic and local, with shared tables and a relaxed, breezy setting. Lines form regularly, reflecting steady popularity and a community feel.

Tamales come in unique varieties like vegan hemp and green tamale with a small piece of meat. They appear in bowls and burritos, often paired with beans, cheese, and green chilies, delivering distinctive flavors not found elsewhere.

Food quality stands out with well worth the wait dishes. Lines form often but move quickly, and ordering online makes pickup easy.

People are saying

"These grilled burritos are crispy outside and steamy hot inside."

"These breakfast burritos are clutch and tasty."

"These tamales are delicious, especially inside a burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking can be hard to find as it's located within a neighborhood.

2

Expect a long line during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

The ordering system can be confusing, so be prepared.

15
Maria Bonita Mexican Kitchen image 1

Mexican restaurant with traditional and modern decor creates a warm, family-friendly atmosphere enhanced by live Mariachi music at times. The space feels like a small piece of Mexico, quiet enough for easy conversation and welcoming to all.

Green corn tamales stand out with their rich flavor and come with good sized portions of rice and beans. They appear on combination platters alongside items like chile relleno and fajitas.

Food comes out hot and flavorful with a focus on authentic Mexican dishes. Every plate shows freshness and attention to detail in taste and portion size.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and full of authentic flavor."

"The Red Menudo and Tortilla Soup are great for date spots."

"I found the green corn tamales to be the most delicious I had ever eaten."

Good to know

1

The mariachi band performs every Friday night from 6:30 pm to 8:30 pm.

2

Parking can be a little challenging.

3

Seating can get limited, so it's best to call for reservations.

16
La Mesa Tortillas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Authentic Mexican restaurant with fresh homemade tortillas made daily in three sizes including whole wheat grain tortillas. Atmosphere feels traditional and genuine, reflecting classic flavors and recipes. Popular for breakfast burritos served with homemade salsa and a variety of tamales and empanadas.

Homemade tamales come with jackfruit, pork, beef, or chicken fillings. Seasonal green corn tamales appear alongside red beef tamales.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and outstanding flavor. Tortillas meet high standards and the overall menu delivers more than expected.

People are saying

"I found the tortillas here to be the best I've ever had."

"These empanadas taste like homemade tortillas from my great grandmother's comal."

"I found the homemade tortillas to be good."

Good to know

1

Check their website for current opening hours before visiting.

2

They charge a 50-cent fee for debit card transactions.

3

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long waits.

17
Hotel McCoy Tucson - Art, Coffee, Beer, Wine image 1

Retro motel showcases vibrant murals and local art in every room, creating a unique and immersive atmosphere. The space feels quiet and quaint, with a heated saltwater pool and a bar serving local beers and wines. Guests enjoy a community vibe with amenities like live music, board games, and outdoor chill areas.

Homemade tamales appear as a snack option in the lobby and office area. They come frozen for purchase and are described as delicious. Sometimes served alongside drinks like cold beer or local wine.

Food options include a food truck serving meals and delivering to rooms, popsicles in the lobby, and tamales. Breakfast features oatmeal and other quick, on-the-go items.

People are saying

"The hotel staff is so friendly and welcoming."

"The food here is so friendly and welcoming."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

The hotel has a happy hour from Monday to Thursday.

2

They hold movie nights on Fridays at the pool.

3

Every Tuesday night features an Irish folk ensemble with about fifteen musicians.

18
Salsa Verde Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Interior offers a sit-down dining experience with a recently remodeled, lively atmosphere that contrasts with a modest exterior. Casual and laid-back vibe welcomes guests to enjoy a salsa bar and diverse margarita flavors. Outdoor seating is available and pet friendly, adding to the relaxed setting.

Tamales come moist and flavorful, often made with corn and green chili. The red chile pork tamales stand out for their rich taste.

Food here stands out for its excellent quality and delicious flavors. The menu offers great value with a fast casual vibe that feels more like sit-down dining.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be very authentic and delicious."

"I found the Mexican food here to be so authentic and delicious."

"These tamales are so flavorful and moist."

Good to know

1

$5 margarita Mondays, taco Tuesdays, and $9.99 bucket of beer Thursdays are available.

2

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to previous visits.

3

A 25% gratuity is added for groups of nine or more.

19
Del Rancho Carniceria & Tacos image 1

Butcher shop combines clean, friendly atmosphere with an open salsa bar and small restaurant inside. Customers find high-quality seasoned meats alongside produce and tortillas, creating a lively spot for authentic Mexican flavors. Self-serve ordering and ample parking add convenience to the experience.

Authentic tamales come in a half dozen for 14 dollars. They taste excellent and are available to go.

Food comes fresh and cooked daily with excellent quality and made to order dishes. The hot food tastes great and is reasonably priced, with staff knowledgeable about food allergens.

People are saying

"I've never had better birria or al pastor tacos."

"I found the food here to be delicious and awesome."

"I emphasized how authentic the tamales were."

Good to know

1

Del Rancho Carniceria & Tacos is open from 7am to 8pm every day.

2

There is plenty of parking available, making it convenient to get a quick bite.

3

Tamales are priced at $14 for a half dozen.

20
El Sur Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small indoor dining area with a recently remodeled, bright, and comfortable space featuring roll-up windows and a bar setup. Atmosphere feels cozy, friendly, and festive, with occasional loudness due to size. Outdoor patio offers ample seating and a pleasant environment even in warm weather.

Fried green corn tamales stand out here, even when not on the menu. Juicy, hot tamales come from the tamale lady at the front door, with sweet corn tamales also noted as delicious.

Food here is consistently great Mexican cuisine with amazing flavors and reliable quality. Every dish delivers solid taste and service stays attentive.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and packed full of flavor."

"The outdoor seating is a lovely and pleasant dining area."

"I've never eaten a Molcajete as incredible as this one."

Good to know

1

Live music occurs from 9:30 pm until 2:00 am on Sundays.

2

Happy hour features discounted margaritas and free chips and salsa.

3

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

21
Mercado y Carnicería La Mexicana image 1

Small grocery store offers homemade corn tortillas, abundant cheese and queso Oaxaca, and imported Mexican candies and salsas. Prices change frequently and remain reasonable. Take-out food includes tacos de birria and white menudo, with a restaurant that stops serving by 4 pm.

Savory, spicy Birria and mouthwatering tamales stand out here. Green corn tamales come in half dozen packs and offer a good, solid flavor.

Food features delicious tacos and white menudo with good portions. Many dishes come reheated for take-out orders.

People are saying

"You have to try the savory, spicy birria and flavorful tacos."

"I enjoyed the good food, especially the tamales."

"The tamales here are mouthwatering and packed with cheese."

Good to know

1

The restaurant stops serving at 4 pm.

2

Prices at Mercado y Carnicería La Mexicana are reasonable.

3

They offer a variety of salsas and candies from Mexico.

22
Mi Nidito Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with warm, cozy decor resembling a traditional casita and festive, colorful atmosphere. Offers authentic Sonoran cuisine and renowned margaritas, creating a friendly, quiet space ideal for conversation.

Tamales here have a substantial size and flavorful beef with excellent seasoning. Masa texture is perfectly soft, though one version contains only potato and jalapeno without beef.

Authentic Sonoran Mexican food stands out with delicious, flavorful dishes and top-notch service. The menu offers a genuine taste of Mexican cuisine that consistently impresses.

People are saying

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be amazing."

"The Mexican food here is authentic and consistently really good."

"The tamales here are flavorful with excellent masa texture."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait, especially on weekends or evenings.

2

Parking can be difficult; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is recommended for some vendors.

23
Rosa's Mexican Food Restaurant image 1

Small, quaint Mexican restaurant with authentic atmosphere and traditional decor featuring great wall art. The vibe is warm and inviting, reflecting a family-like, friendly energy. Known for excellent margaritas and consistently delicious dishes like chicken chimichangas and chile rellenos.

Green corn tamales stand out with a sweet cornbread taste. The combination plate featuring tamale, red enchilada, and taco offers a well-balanced mix that ranks among the finest. These tamales match the quality of traditional homemade recipes.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with consistently excellent dishes like the homemade crunchy Sonoran tacos. The food stays outstanding every time, paired with friendly and fast service.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and remarkably authentic."

"I found the Mexican food here to be authentic and flavorful."

"I found the green corn tamales to have a great sweet cornbread taste."

Good to know

1

The carne asada plate costs $29.99, which may be considered expensive for the portion size.

2

Prices have recently increased, with some meals exceeding $30.

3

The restaurant is located in a strip mall at the corner of Ft Lowell and Campbell.

24
Tanias 33 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a simple, old school atmosphere and family-style seating that feels cozy and relaxed. Large tables accommodate groups, while Disney movies and dinosaur art add a casual, welcoming touch. The vibe is down to earth, making it a comfortable spot for quick bites or gatherings.

Corn tamales come from a Heaven's own recipe and stand out for their incredible deliciousness. The green chile tamales offer a notable flavor and are available to take home.

Mexican food here is consistently amazing with affordable prices and generous portions. Burritos and other dishes deliver great value and authentic flavors.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the delicious, homemade breakfast burrito with the best tortillas."

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"These corn tamales are made from Heaven's own recipe."

Good to know

1

Tanias 33 offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options.

2

Reservations or online orders are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

Prices at Tanias 33 are generally affordable for the portion sizes.

25
Little Mexico Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with dark, cozy dining rooms and art deco decorations creates a welcoming yet somewhat loud atmosphere due to no acoustic ceiling. The space offers ample seating but limited parking, attracting diners who appreciate authentic, flavorful dishes served quickly with generous portions.

Green corn and red tamales stand out with balanced heat and flavors that match traditional recipes. The #9 plate pairs tamales with eggs, beans, and a tortilla for a classic combo.

Food here is authentic Mexican with fresh, delicious flavors. Plates come in nice-sized portions that often invite seconds.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the shredded beef taco, is excellent."

"I thought the food here was fresh and delicious."

"These tamales taste exactly like the ones I grew up on."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Catering services are available, even on Sundays.

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