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Best of California

Tamale spots

You want a place that treats tamales with the care they deserve.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Cristino’s Bakery image 1
Cristino’s Bakery image 2
Cristino’s Bakery image 3
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Offers affordable tamales with perfect filling and bold taste. Burritos, especially chorizo breakfast, are hearty and satisfying. Small outdoor bench adds a homey atmosphere but seating is limited and bakery closes mid-afternoon.

Tamales feature perfect filling and a delicious taste that stands out. They pair well with other items like chorizo breakfast burritos and traditional sides such as beans and rice.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here was amazing and flavorful."

"I thought the Birria tacos were to die for."

"I thought their tamales were the best I have ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Cristino’s Bakery is take-out only with no seating available.

2

They’re open until 2 AM on Friday and Saturday nights.

3

The bakery only serves drip coffee and does not offer milk alternatives.

02
Panadería La Guadalupana image 1

Mexican bakery shines with freshly baked bread and warm bolillos in a clean, homey space. Tamales are a highlight, featuring moist masa and rich fillings like cheese, chicken, and mole. High demand means tamales often sell out early, proving their authentic taste.

Tamales feature light and moist masa with rich flavors like cheese and jalapeño, chicken, beef, and mole. They come out delicious and well-made, consistently satisfying across different varieties.

People are saying

"Their Mexican food tamales are so delicious and moist."

"I found the tamales here to be amazing and delicious."

"I found the bread to be delicious and always warm."

Good to know

1

Tamales usually sell out by 8am, so arrive early to get some.

2

The bakery offers a variety of Mexican sweet bread and baked goods.

3

Prices for the bread are surprisingly affordable compared to other bakeries.

03
Guisados image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco spot shines with authentic stews and high-quality ingredients. Tamales bring a fresh corn scent and taste like grandmother-made. Vibrant vibe indoors and a heated patio outdoors make it welcoming year-round.

Tamales offer a fresh corn scent that feels like home cooking. Mini samplers include tamales that match the quality of grandmother-made versions.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here has great tortillas and fresh ingredients."

"The outdoor patio is super cute and creates a really good vibe."

"You can try six different tamales on the sampler plate."

Good to know

1

Parking at Guisados can be difficult, so arrive early.

2

Expect to spend around $20 for four tacos.

3

The patio can get busy, so grab a table as soon as possible.

04
Shane's Tamales image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining area creates a welcoming vibe with friendly service. Menu shines with authentic vegan Mexican food, especially top-tier tamales in vegan and non-vegan options. Efficient service and eco-friendly packaging enhance the experience.

Tamales stand out for their rich flavor and come in both vegan and non-vegan options. The chicken, pork, and bean and cheese tamales are especially popular, with many finding them worth long drives to enjoy.

People are saying

"These vegan tamales are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"These tamales are generously filled and incredibly delicious."

"These dairy-free tamales are so delicious, I couldn't get enough."

Good to know

1

Shane's Tamales offers a special for half and full dozen tamales.

2

The restaurant is all vegan and offers gluten-free options.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to other vegan spots.

05
Panaderia Lucero image 1

Bright, clean bakery offers fresh pork tamales with a spicy red sauce that enhances flavor. Family-run vibe creates a warm, inviting space blending traditional recipes with modern touches. Authentic Mexican breads and pastries complete the hip, fresh setting.

Pork tamales come fresh every morning and taste delicious. A spicy red sauce pairs well with them, making the flavor stand out.

People are saying

"I loved their cafe de olla, it was delicious."

"I found their tamales to be the best I ever had."

"You have to try the Telera bread; it's the best I had in town."

Good to know

1

The pork tamales are made fresh every morning.

2

Panadería Lucero offers a variety of pastries and sweets.

3

The business is family-owned and operated, creating a warm atmosphere.

06
Los gordos comida y antojitos colombianos image 1

Colombian restaurant shines with authentic flavors like tamales and cheese empanadas. Fresh, well-seasoned dishes come with minimal wait times and affordable prices. Welcoming vibe suits those craving genuine Colombian food.

Lechona and tamales offer delicious flavor that stands out. Tamales come alongside stuffed potatoes and empanadas for a varied meal.

People are saying

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

"The food here feels like being back in Colombia."

"I found the tamales to be very tasty and delicious."

Good to know

1

The prices are very fair and affordable for Colombian food.

2

Expect minimal wait times before being served.

3

Meals are made with local ingredients for authentic flavor.

07
MANE'S BAKERY image 1

Bakery shines with delicious tamales like red and cheese with red peppers, offering rich flavors. Breakfast options include a hearty burrito with chorizo and fresh pastries. The place has a cheerful atmosphere that draws people for both sweet and savory treats.

Tamales come in all flavors, including red tamales and cheese with red peppers. They taste consistently delicious and stand out for their rich flavor.

People are saying

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

"The bread here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the tamales here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The bakery opens at 7am daily, perfect for early risers.

2

Expect fresh bread and pastries baked throughout the day.

3

Cash and credit cards are accepted for all purchases.

08
El Saltarin image 1
Mexican goods store

Tamales feature generous meat and delicious masa with balanced spice. Mexican candies add a sweet touch to the menu. Ordering tamales ahead is highly recommended due to their popularity.

Tamales come with a good amount of meat and taste very good and delicious. Calling ahead to order tamales is recommended.

People are saying

"The tamales here are delicious with a good amount of meat."

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

Good to know

1

Call ahead to order tamales to ensure availability.

2

Consider buying Mexican candies for a unique treat.

3

Parking may be limited, so arrive early.

09
Panaderia y pasteleria la Mexicana image 1

Bakery shines with vegan tamales that taste savory and authentic. Soft, flaky pan dulce offers a sweet, traditional treat. Welcoming vibe and freshly made goods make it a top spot for vegan Mexican pastries.

Vegan tamales stand out with savory fillings and a delicious taste. They come alongside other vegan treats like pan dulce and champurrado, making them a popular choice for holidays and weekends.

People are saying

"The dairy-free pan dulce is so soft and tasty."

"You have to try their vegan Mexican food, especially the tamales."

"You have to try the vegan tamales, they're so good."

Good to know

1

Vegan options are available starting at 6:30 am.

2

The bakery offers a variety of vegan traditional Mexican foods made fresh daily.

3

Pricing is reasonable compared to regular pan dulce.

10
La Cocina de Los Reyes image 1

Small space with intimate setting feels family-owned and welcoming despite loud music. Authentic Chiapas cuisine shines with handmade tortillas and rich sauces. Tamales impress with chipilin flavor and mole's complex taste, especially in chicken varieties.

Chipilin tamale offers a unique flavor not typical of most tamales. Mole tamales stand out with rich, complex taste, and all chicken varieties are available.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas are fresh, buttery soft, and delicious."

"I found the chipilin tamale to be delicious."

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be amazing."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers three types of sauces: red, green, and mole.

2

Portions are large and satisfying for most diners.

3

Prices are reasonable compared to similar establishments.

11
Nandri Indian Cafe image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious cafe-style spot offers curry tamales with Indian spices and a lively vibe from a live band. Kid-friendly atmosphere includes board games like checkers and chess. Ample seating and cheerful music make it a homey, welcoming place for families and food lovers alike.

Curry tamales stand out with Indian spices in the masa and curry both inside and on top. Chicken curry tamales come as part of a flight and pair well with dishes like Tandoori fried chicken and paratha.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the dosa."

"The owners are so kind and welcoming, making the curry experience special."

"You have to try the curry tamales; they're so tasty."

Good to know

1

You can host events there.

2

There are microphones and speakers, suggesting they might host karaoke nights.

3

The parking lot in the back is a big plus.

12
The Peruvian Spot image 1

Bright, inviting décor creates an authentic Peruvian vibe. Family-friendly with a kids' play corner keeps kids happy. Pork tamales deliver fresh, tasty flavors that satisfy. Spacious layout suits groups seeking a relaxed meal.

Peruvian tamales stand out with fresh, tasty flavors. Pork tamales offer a rich, satisfying taste that pairs well with other dishes like pork loin sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be the best I ever had."

"The Peruvian food here is so authentic, it transports you straight to Peru."

"I found the tamales here to be the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

They offer free coffee until 10:30.

2

The kids corner makes it special for families with children.

3

Parking is easy and the location is convenient.

13
Pupuseria Azacualpa image 1

Small family-owned spot serves authentic Salvadoran cuisine with fresh pupusas and sweet corn tamales. Cozy vibe invites patience during short waits. Prices stay affordable, making it a great choice for homey, flavorful meals.

Tamales de elote stand out with a sweet corn flavor. Chicken tamales taste rich and homey, similar to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic, especially the pupusas."

"I found the pupusas to be authentic Salvadoran food, just like home."

"I thought the Tamales de elote were the best I had."

Good to know

1

The pupusas cost under $5 each.

2

Expect a wait as pupusas are made to order.

3

The wait time is typically around 7 minutes.

14
Nantli Tamales image 1
Oaxacan restaurant

Oaxacan restaurant shines with authentic mole tamales and vegan options like mushroom and spinach. Warm atmosphere and attentive service make dining pleasant. Flavorful dishes and clear order updates keep guests coming back.

Tamales come in authentic Mexican flavors like mole and pineapple, with vegan mushroom and spinach options clearly labeled in separate trays. Orders arrive on time with clear updates, and the portions deliver strong flavor and quality.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"I had the best breakfast burrito I ever tasted."

"These tamales are so delicious and have great flavor."

Good to know

1

Expect a 15-minute wait during peak breakfast hours.

2

Halal meat options are available upon request.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

15
Tamales Brenda's image 1

Small spot with a friendly atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Tamales boast moist masa and generous fillings that taste fresh and savory. Cash-only keeps it simple and straightforward.

Tamales here have moist masa that melts in your mouth and a savory filling balanced perfectly. Each tamale tastes fresh and feels made to perfection.

People are saying

"These tamales have the most flavorful masa and savory filling."

"The Mexican food's tamales had moist, flavorful masa and generous fillings."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash.

16
Pupuseria La Estrella image 1

Enjoy large stuffed pupusas bursting with flavor in a welcoming atmosphere that feels like home. Savor sweet corn tamales, especially the flavorful elote variety, alongside a menu full of authentic Salvadoran dishes. Cleanliness and genuine taste make it a standout spot.

Tamales feature sweet corn prominently, with elote tamales standing out for their flavor. Options include both savory and sweet corn tamales.

People are saying

"The pupusas here are authentic, big, and tasty."

"I found the tamales to be excellent and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a variety of Salvadoran dishes.

2

Prices are competitive with similar restaurants.

3

The place is very clean.

17
K&J Sweets and Bakery image 1

Bright space with natural light and Latin pop music sets a cozy vibe. Pork tamales offer rich flavor but cost more than usual. Sweet aromas and custom baked goods make it a popular spot for casual snacks near the university.

Pork tamales stand out for their flavor and quality. They come at a higher price compared to typical tamales.

People are saying

"I loved their spongy, not too sweet marble cake."

"You have to try their homemade tortas and empanadas; they're so fresh."

"I had the best pork tamale that I have ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free for 90 minutes next to the bakery.

2

Prices for baked goods are generally affordable, with slices of cake around $6.50.

3

The bakery offers a variety of classic panaderia bread and Euro pastries.

18
El Pollo Dorado & Mexican Food image 1

Rotisserie chicken offers moist, juicy flavor and savory taste. Tamales bring a perfect spice level with flavorful bites, paired well with rice. Space stays very clean and prices are affordable with large portions.

Tamales have a perfect spice level around 6 out of 10 and deliver very flavorful bites. Rice pairs well with them, making the meal satisfying.

People are saying

"I found the food delicious, especially the juicy, flavorful chicken."

"I thought the asada burrito was bomb."

"I found the tamales here to be so good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The prices are very affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

You should ask for the habanero salsa for an extra kick.

3

They offer options beyond chicken, such as lengua and asada.

19
Santa Clara Farmers Market image 1

Small farmers market shines with handmade tamales like chicken verde and fresh local produce. Live music adds to the laid-back vibe while easy parking and seating make it perfect for casual visits. Sampling options and hot food stalls offer a flavorful experience for all tastes.

Handmade tamales stand out with chicken verde offering a flavorful option. Dumplings and tamales both show excellent quality alongside good breakfast burritos and sweets.

People are saying

"I found the farmers market to be small but charming."

"I enjoyed the really good, bold, and aromatic coffee."

"I thought the handmade tamales were excellent."

Good to know

1

The farmers market is open on Saturdays.

2

Parking is usually pretty easy, both in the lot and on the street.

3

There are several produce stands and some hot food options.

20
Josie's image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small family-owned spot shines with huge tamales and crispy chicken tacos. Warm, welcoming vibe makes takeout feel special. Affordable prices and fast service keep locals coming back.

Huge tamales stand out here, especially the chicken and beef varieties. They pair well with tostadas and offer a solid option when usual tamale spots sell out.

People are saying

"I found their crunchy chicken tacos to be the best."

"You have to try their super burrito; it's epic."

"I loved the chicken and beef tamales here."

Good to know

1

Mondays are fried chicken tacos day at Josie's.

2

Josie's is primarily a to-go place with only a couple of small tables.

3

The dining table area at Josie's is closed after 5:30 PM.

21
Lady R Bistro image 1
Restaurant

Small, cozy spot with Pop Art decor and close tables creates an intimate vibe. Sweet corn tamale shines with rich flavor, paired well with empanadas. Live music and a full bar offer diverse cocktails, making it vibrant and welcoming.

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

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.

22
La Cocina de Sivar image 1

Cozy spot with intimate atmosphere offers authentic Salvadoran dishes. Tamales shine with varied flavors like pisque and pollo, paired with pupusas and curtido. Warm vibes and clean space make it a hidden gem for calm dining.

Tamales come in several varieties including tamales de pisque with refried beans and tamales de pollo. They serve them alongside pupusas with curtido and salsa, adding to a diverse selection.

People are saying

"The pupusas here are authentically Salvadoran, with soft masa and flavorful fillings."

"The Salvadoran breakfast here is amazing and authentic."

"The tamales here are so flavorful and authentic."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is clean and well-maintained.

2

Expect minimal wait times due to low crowd levels.

3

The menu features popular Salvadoran dishes, including pupusas.

23
Almazan Bakery image 1

Bakery shines with fresh pan dulce and solid tamales full of flavor. Family-run vibe adds warmth. Prices are high, especially for coffee, but sandwiches and meat pastries offer good variety.

Tamales stand out with solid flavor and good quality. They come alongside dishes like menudo and tacos, offering a varied menu.

People are saying

"The bread here is always fresh and delicious."

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tamales, was great."

"I thought the tamales here were pretty great."

Good to know

1

The display cases should have prices for all items.

2

Prices may vary from what's displayed in the cases.

3

For 4 meat-stuffed and 2 Creme filled pastries, expect to pay about $16.

24
Taqueria Los Altos image 1
Taco restaurant

Small taco spot shines with authentic Mexican flavors and a great salsa bar. Soft tamales offer moist fillings and a rich smoky sauce. Quick service and generous portions make it perfect for casual dining or takeout.

Soft tamales come wrapped in tradition with moist fillings and a rich smoky red sauce. They pair well with other dishes like enchiladas and pozole.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos were incredible, especially the carnitas and carne asada."

"The salsa here tastes so fresh and authentic."

"The tamales are soft, flavorful, and wrapped in tradition."

Good to know

1

The tacos are priced at $11 for two, with generous portions.

2

Expect food to be ready in 10-15 minutes during busy hours.

3

The restaurant includes a free cup of consomé with each meal.

25
Golondrinas Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Stylish space with outdoor seating offers a quiet, family-friendly vibe. Mole tamales shine with rich flavor and moist texture. Freshly made sangria pairs well with mole enchiladas and burritos, while parking is easy with lot and street options.

Mole tamales stand out with their moist texture and rich flavor. They come alongside other dishes like pupusas and fajitas, adding variety to the meal.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"It's so convenient, they have their own parking lot."

"These tamales are delicious and moist."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the restaurant complex itself.

2

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining options.

3

Menudo is served on Saturday and Sunday.

26
Lalo's Bakery image 1

Small bakery offers fresh Mexican bread and soft tamales with spicy options like red pork and rajas. Lines form fast due to strong local support. Prices for tamales are a bit high, around 40 dollars per dozen.

Tamales come very soft and delicious here with options like red pork and spicy rajas that can make you sweat. A dozen costs around 40 dollars, which feels a bit pricey.

People are saying

"The bread here is always fresh and delicious."

"I found this bakery to be the best in town."

"I thought the tamales were good and very soft."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait outside if more than three people are inside.

2

The bakery has no seating available inside or outside.

3

A dozen tamales costs $40, which may seem expensive.

27
Niles Donuts image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop shines with moist tamales and spicy salsa roja that add bold flavor. Donuts offer a balanced sweetness and include unique options like Asian egg rolls. Quick bites come at affordable prices with high quality in every treat.

Tamales come out moist and flavorful with a perfect meat-to-dough ratio. The salsa roja served alongside adds a nice kick.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best donuts I've ever had."

"I found the Vietnamese coffee to be the best I've had."

"The tamales here are so moist and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Niles Donuts offers a wide variety of donuts and breakfast items.

2

Prices at Niles Donuts are very affordable compared to other shops.

3

Expect a quick service for a tasty bite at Niles Donuts.

28
Restaurant Primy's Mexican food image 1

Cozy Mexican spot with a calm vibe and friendly hosts makes it great for families. Tamales wrapped in banana leaf come in red pork and green chicken, plus a sweet piña option. Authentic homemade dishes shine in a clean, comfy space.

Tamales come wrapped in banana leaf and include options like red pork and green chicken. The piña tamales offer a sweet twist worth trying.

People are saying

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

"You've got to try the handmade tortillas here."

"I ordered the red pork or green chicken tamales every holiday."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for weekend brunch due to high demand.

2

The restaurant offers a buffet option on weekends.

3

They accept both cash and credit cards for payment.

29
Miss Donuts image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop serves mochi donuts and banana leaf tamales with pork and chicken. Prices are steep, like $21 for four small tamales. Atmosphere feels cramped, but sandwiches offer a quick lunch for tamale lovers and sweet tooths.

Tamales come in pork with red salsa and green salsa rib wrapped in banana leaves varieties. Four small tamales cost $21, with a mix of pork and chicken flavors available.

People are saying

"The pork and chicken tamales here are so delicious."

"I found the mochi donuts here to be awesome."

"I found the pork and chicken tamales delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices for tamales are high, with four small ones costing $21.

2

The doughnut selection is limited, which may disappoint some visitors.

3

They offer a variety of tamales and donuts for lunch options.

30
Martha's Bakery image 1

Bakery shines with fresh Mexican bread and banana leaf tamales that offer unique flavor and beautiful presentation. Clean space keeps prices fair despite location. Oaxaqueños tamales add a distinct taste, making every bite consistently delicious.

Banana leaf tamales stand out for their unique wrapping and flavor. The Oaxaqueños tamales offer a distinct taste, and all tamales come beautifully prepared and consistently delicious.

People are saying

"These banana leaf tamales are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I've never had tamales this delicious before."

"I found the bread here to be delicious and very tasty."

Good to know

1

Prices are higher than average due to the area.

2

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

3

The bakery offers a variety of pastries and bread.

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