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Tamales in California

You are looking for tamales that aren't on every tourist map and require a bit of effort to find.

Based on 481 Opinions
+478
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Updated June 2026
01
Lady R Bistro image 1
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Restaurant

Small, cozy restaurant with Pop Art decor and close tables creates an intimate setting. Live music adds energy while a full bar offers diverse cocktails. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, blending a speakeasy vibe with family-friendly warmth.

Sweet corn tamale stands out with its rich flavor. Tamales come alongside empanadas and other dishes that pair well together.

Offers an authentic speakeasy vibe that feels genuine and low-key. Stands out as a great little hidden gem that doesn't advertise itself openly.

People are saying

"The food here was delicious and amazing."

"The live music here was so great."

"I loved the tamales with queso fresca crema and corn on top."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

Expect wait times of over 30 minutes during peak hours.

3

Limited parking is available close to the entrance.

02
Birrieria Enriquez: North Park's Finest Taco Restaurant image 1

Cozy hole-in-the-wall with a communal atmosphere featuring a long table, festive lights, and candles. The vibe is friendly and family-oriented, with authentic Mexican decor and calming jazz music in the morning. The space feels welcoming and comfortable, inviting guests to relax and enjoy.

Tamales come piping hot with melted cheese and steam when broken into. Varieties include beef birria and pineapple tamale, all full of flavor and cooked to perfection.

This spot stands out for its perfectly curated menu and feels like a true hidden gem in the area. It offers a unique experience that surprises many after Sunday service.

People are saying

"I've never had birria this rich, savory, and satisfying before."

"I enjoyed the greatest lemonade I ever had."

"I thought the tamales were the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour fish or shrimp tacos are available on Wednesday and Thursday from 5 to 8 pm.

2

Parking can be difficult and frustrating in the area.

3

There is easy side street parking available nearby.

03
Al Carbon Pollos Asados Estilo Sinaloa image 1

Small space fills with smoky charcoal aroma that defines the cooking style. Atmosphere feels authentic and cozy despite being a bit cramped. Offers traditional Sinaloa-style roasted chicken with a clean, well-kept environment.

Sweet corn tamales stand out with their freshness and delicious flavor. Pork and corn tamales also offer a satisfying taste that pairs well with other dishes like enchiladas.

This spot stands out as a hidden gem with a surprising charm. It offers a unique experience that feels tucked away from the usual places.

People are saying

"You have to try their delicious pork and corn tamales."

"I thought the grilled chicken was smoky, juicy, and packed with authentic flavor."

"I discovered this culinary treasure; it's the best place to eat."

Good to know

1

They have a special price on Tuesdays.

2

The restaurant is very clean.

3

Prices are fair for the quality of food.

04
Nosotros Cafe image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-run Mexican restaurant with cozy blue velvet booths and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Lively salsa music plays, creating a community vibe that feels like family. Bakery area displays conchas and stuffed peeps, adding a charming touch to the decor.

Huge tamales come with perfect masa and fillings like spiced chicken, pork, and cheese with chile. They taste rich and flavorful.

Offers a quiet atmosphere away from crowds and unique menu items not found in typical cafes. Provides a cozy setting that feels tucked away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"The Cafe's service felt like a warm welcome, making everyone feel valued."

"These tamales are delicious and clearly made with care."

"I found this place to be a great hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Pupusas must be preordered with a minimum of six for availability.

2

Pupusas are available on Fridays and Saturdays.

3

The cafe avoids using styrofoam and plastic for take-out packaging.

05
Mystic Mocha image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with cozy indoor space and extensive outdoor seating filled with dogs and picnic tables. Atmosphere feels artistic and inviting, with a pet-friendly vibe and peaceful patio perfect for conversations. Frequented by down-to-earth people, it offers excellent WiFi and outlets for work.

Vegan tamales stand out here, often praised for their flavor and paired with vegan bacon. They heat tamales in a microwave or warmer, but availability is limited since they often run out and restock weekly.

Offers a quiet atmosphere away from busy spots and serves unique coffee blends not found elsewhere. Known for its cozy vibe that feels like a well-kept secret.

People are saying

"I dreamed of their amazing breakfast burritos."

"I love their vegan tamales and vegan bacon."

"I found Mystic Mocha to be a hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited on the second and fourth Mondays and Tuesdays due to street sweeping.

2

There is no onsite parking; however, plenty of adjacent street parking is available.

3

The cafe offers free alternative milk options, which is rare in coffee shops.

06
ChapMayan image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy coffee shop with Guatemalan-inspired decor and authentic cultural music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Drinks feature in-house syrups and come with oat milk included, enhancing the handcrafted experience. Small space fills with earthy, vibrant energy and offers a unique neighborhood vibe.

Guatemalan tamales stand out for their rich flavor and authenticity. The menu includes chapin tamales and chuchitos, all noted for their delicious taste.

An inviting little spot with a welcoming atmosphere and a quiet charm that feels like a true hidden gem.

People are saying

"I loved the coffee; it was strong and balanced."

"It's a cozy spot with a warm, homey feel and Guatemalan-inspired decor."

"I loved the delicious tamales and coffee here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find on weekends due to the small size of the coffee shop.

2

The bathroom is located in the back and requires going through the kitchen.

3

They offer a daily pour over and flavored lattes made with in-house syrups.

07
El Mezcalito image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy restaurant with beautiful Latin decor and three TVs showing soccer games. Atmosphere feels lively but not loud, filled with laughter and conversation. Known for authentic Mexican food and 5-star quality margaritas.

Tamales have a high masa content with less meat inside. They come alongside dishes like enchiladas and chile relleno on combination plates. The tamale and pozole stand out as not quite matching homemade versions.

Tucked away in a quiet spot off Baseline and Hellman, this place stands out as a hidden gem. Its secluded location makes it a unique find away from the usual spots.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and packed with flavor."

"I found this place to be a hidden gem tucked away."

"These tamales are among the best I've had from a restaurant."

Good to know

1

Happy hour specials are available Monday through Thursday from 2 to 5 PM.

2

The restaurant has plenty of parking available, even during lunch hours.

3

The bill for two people with drinks and appetizers averages around $51.

08
Anguiano's Bakery image 1

Tiny Mexican bakery offers authentic pan dulce with freshly baked, individually wrapped bread that melts in the mouth. Atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, resembling a clean, cozy cafe where care shows in every detail.

Tamales come in red and chicken varieties priced at three dollars each. Some tamales are half open, and the green chicken tamale tends to be dry and spicy.

Offers a traditional Mexican bakery experience with a unique twist. Located in a shopping center with plenty of parking and tucked away near a family restaurant.

People are saying

"Their pastries are soft, fluffy, and perfectly sweet."

"You have to try these empanadas; they're so flavorful and delicious."

"You have to try the tamales; my husband loved them."

Good to know

1

They bake fresh bread every morning.

2

The bakery offers custom orders, such as conchas in specific colors for events.

3

They have tamales on Saturdays.

09
Sarinana's Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Converted house with four small tables and murals by Jose Ortiz creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. Quiet and unpretentious, it feels like a family kitchen where familiar faces often gather. The vibe is tranquil and steeped in history, offering a genuine taste of traditional Mexican cuisine.

Tamales come in large portions with varieties like pork, cheese, chicken, and corn. They have a rich, satisfying flavor that many find exceeds expectations and pairs well with other Mexican dishes.

Tucked away in an industrial area, this spot stands out as a hidden gem with a 50-year-old history. It offers great Mexican food in a small, off-the-beaten-path setting.

People are saying

"I thought the tamales here were the best I'd ever tasted."

"It's a true hidden gem, a diamond in the rough for great Mexican food."

"It's a family owned place that's been around for generations."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing all day on Tuesday.

2

Parking is limited; consider arriving early or using nearby lots.

3

Tamales cost $3 each, which may be considered pricey by some.

10
VegainzLA image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small space with tropical dining area and free arcade machine creates a unique setting. Atmosphere blends modern-day hippie vibe with loud live DJ energy and friendly faces. Regulars enjoy vegan-focused menu praised for flavorful, healthy options.

Jackfruit tamales stand out as a popular choice here. The tamales are well-liked and come alongside other options like wraps and sushi burritos.

Offers a nice hidden gem vibe with good parking nearby. Quiet spot that feels off the beaten path.

People are saying

"The vegetarian food here is beyond delicious and flavorful."

"This place is a hidden gem with good parking nearby."

"I love the crispy oyster mushrooms spread on nachos."

Good to know

1

Expect long waits during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The menu features a variety of options like wraps, sushi burritos, and tamales.

3

Orders are generally prepared quickly, ensuring a smooth dining experience.

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