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Mexican food tamales in Tucson

You know that a real Mexican food experience is measured by the quality of the tamales.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Rancheros Carnicería Grant image 1
Rancheros Carnicería Grant image 2
Rancheros Carnicería Grant image 3
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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.

Bacon breakfast burrito stands out with rich flavors. Tacos deliver authentic taste. Pozole pairs well with grilled bread. Shrimp ceviche and pork carnitas offer fresh, delicious options.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The Mexican food here is great, and the staff is so friendly."

"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
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.

Fresh corn tortillas and homemade tamales stand out with moist, savory fillings like beef and green corn. The vibrant salsas offer fresh, flavorful heat made from ingredients like tomatillo and chile serrano, complementing meats grilled over charcoal.

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."

"I loved the homemade corn tortillas and savory beef tamales."

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.

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.

Authentic Mexican street tacos come with chorizo burritos and Birria that stand out. The salsa and enchilada sauce are highly praised for their flavor.

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
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.

Sonoran Mexican food stands out with excellent enchiladas and birria tacos that deliver rich, authentic flavors.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here has excellent, friendly service."

"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.

05
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.

Green chile tamales stand out with good amounts of beef and a favorite green sauce. Pozole stays consistently good, and fresh tamales often sell out quickly due to high demand.

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.

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.

Flour tortillas stand out as exceptionally fresh and soft. The caldo de queso offers a rich, comforting flavor. Tacos come with options like fried chicken and shredded beef, both well-seasoned and satisfying.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is incredible and delicious."

"You have to try the molcajete; it's packed with flavor."

"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
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.

Green Chile Tamales stand out with Poblano Crema and calabacitas. Short ribs come with rich mole sauce. Queso Fundido and guacamole offer creamy, flavorful bites. Tacos and strawberry-filled churros add variety and sweetness.

People are saying

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

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tacos, was fantastic."

"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.

08
Tortillas Bryan image 1

Store offers fresh, preservative-free tortillas with a variety of sizes and affordable prices. Atmosphere is cool and welcoming, featuring a tradition of greeting customers with a free hot tortilla. Only cash payments are accepted, and parking can be challenging.

Excellent tamales stand out here with rich flavor and satisfying texture. They offer a memorable taste experience that many find enjoyable and well-crafted.

Fresh, locally-made tortillas stand out with great quality and soft texture. Tamales are excellent, and burritos taste especially delicious with these light maize tortillas.

People are saying

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

"I found the Mexican Food tortillas to be the best in Tucson."

"I found the tamales here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Tortillas Bryan only accepts cash as payment and does not accept cards.

2

Parking is difficult to find near Tortillas Bryan.

3

You can ask for a free fresh tortilla when you visit.

09
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.

Offers exquisite tamales including chicken and beef with some of the best tortillas around. The vegan breakfast options stand out, and the horchata rice-based drink is notably exceptional.

People are saying

"Their vegan food was amazing and high quality."

"Their vegan Mexican food options were amazing."

"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.

10
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.

Breakfast burritos stand out with crispy grilled exteriors and steamy hot fillings. Chorizo and bacon options deliver excellent flavor, and vegan burritos offer a solid alternative. Tamales inside burritos add a unique touch.

People are saying

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

"These burritos are delicious and have a great homemade taste."

"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.

11
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.

Offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican dishes including menudo, tamales, and carne asada. Features a fresh selection of marinated meats and tortillas plus an excellent taco shop with standout cheese quesadillas.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and delicious."

"You have to try their tamales; they're steaming hot and delicious."

"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.

12
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.

Burritos stand out here, especially the red chili and veggie burritos. The tamales also get a lot of attention for their quality and price.

People are saying

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

"I loved the thick, meaty red chili and homemade tortillas."

"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.

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.

Birria tacos and menudo stand out for their authentic, homemade taste. The green corn tamales and refried beans are also highly notable for their freshness and flavor.

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
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.

Fresh tortillas stand out here, especially the homemade flour ones. The bakery also offers authentic Mexican pastries like pan dulce and tasty tamales, with menudo that is really great.

People are saying

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

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

"The Mexican pastries and tortillas here are always fresh and delicious."

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.

15
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.

Fresh homemade tortillas come twice a week in flour, corn, and whole wheat varieties. Tamales include jackfruit, pork, beef, chicken, and seasonal green corn options, while breakfast burritos feature homemade salsa.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

16
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.

Carnitas and menudo stand out as delicious traditional dishes here. Fresh, house-made tortillas hold up well for tacos and burritos, and homemade tamales are cooked on-site with vegan options available.

People are saying

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

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

"I tried the most authentic tacos I've ever had."

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.

17
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.

Tacos come grilled to order with generous ribeye portions and clean carne asada without gristle. An open salsa bar complements dishes like carnitas, grilled chicken, and street tacos with chips and guacamole.

People are saying

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

"The ribeye tacos are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"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.

18
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.

Homemade tamales stand out, available in the lobby and from a food truck. The spot also offers a beer bar and a clubhouse vibe with snacks like frozen tamales from Tucson Tamale Company.

People are saying

"The hotel staff is so friendly and welcoming."

"The staff here is so friendly and helpful."

"The Mexican food here is great, with lots of fun games."

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.

19
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.

Authentic Mexican food features mole chicken enchiladas and vegan fajitas loaded with bell peppers and roasted corn. The house fajitas stand out, and the salsa, service, and cleanliness all meet good standards.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican Food here is great, and the staff is attentive."

"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.

20
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.

Soft, fluffy corn tortillas stand out, perfect for tacos with tender carnitas. The menu features shredded beef chimichangas, flavorful tamales, and fresh, tasty street tacos with steak and birria. A chips and salsa bar complements dishes like enchiladas montadas and warm bean dip.

People are saying

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

"The salsa bar is usually well stocked with great options."

"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.

21
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.

Authentic Mexican food shines with Enchiladas Suiza, shrimp enchiladas with green sauce, and green corn tamales. Tacos also stand out as a solid choice.

People are saying

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

"The Mexican food here is fresh, flavorful, and delicious."

"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.

22
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.

Burritos here stand out for their large size and vegetarian options like carrot bacon and cauliflower. The horchata and red menudo also get strong mentions for authenticity and flavor.

People are saying

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

"Their burritos are amazing, especially the battered cauliflower."

"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.

23
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 here, with dishes like the green chile con carne chimichanga and carne seca burrito noted for their flavor. The tamale also draws attention for its taste.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the chimichanga; it's perfectly crisp and savory."

"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.

24
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 with red enchilada sauce, homemade crunchy Sonoran tacos, and green corn tamales that match traditional family recipes. Combination plates mix enchiladas, tamales, and tacos, offering a solid taste of local flavors.

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.

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