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Guide to California

Tamales and tortilla spots

Tortillas that are made with care in a space that feels like a neighborhood staple instead of a factory.

Based on 911 Opinions
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01
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Small space with simple tables creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels family-owned and welcoming but can be noisy with loud music and conversations. Known for authentic Chiapas cuisine with handmade tortillas and rich sauces.

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.

Handmade tortillas come out fresh and hot with a buttery soft texture. They offer a layered, complex flavor that pairs well with traditional dishes like mole and menudo.

People are saying

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

"I found the chipilin tamale to be delicious."

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.

02
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Small, family-run Mexican restaurant with a cozy, inviting atmosphere and limited seating. The space feels like a home-style kitchen, creating a warm, comforting vibe. Known for authentic dishes like menudo and tamales, it draws a steady crowd despite its understaffed, intimate setting.

Tamales come in red and green pork or chicken varieties and include sweet options like strawberry or corn. They stay moist and flavorful without being greasy or salty, reflecting the style typical of San Luis Potosi.

Handmade tortillas come soft, especially the flour tortilla. Soups include corn, carrots, potatoes, zucchini, and cabbage, served with rice and tortillas.

People are saying

"The pozole here is so good, I couldn't stop eating it."

"These tamales are so delicious, moist, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in a mall next to 7-11.

2

The restaurant has only a few tables, so seating is limited.

3

They accept phone orders for takeout.

03
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Taco restaurant offers small indoor seating and a cute outdoor patio with heating for colder days. Atmosphere feels vibrant and welcoming, with a cool vibe inside and a lively outdoor scene. Tacos stand out for their high-quality ingredients and authentic stews, attracting a crowd that appreciates variety and flavor.

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

Handmade tortillas stand out for their freshness and homemade quality. They serve as a great base for tacos with excellent toppings.

People are saying

"The homemade tortillas here are outstanding and delicious."

"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
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Grocery store includes butcher shop, bakery, and fresh produce sections. Atmosphere centers on fresh masa, handmade tortillas, and flavorful carnitas and chicharrones.** Offers a variety of traditional Mexican ingredients and prepared items like tamales and tacos.

Tamale dough stands out with its quality and texture. The spot also stocks ingredients for making tamales and offers tamales alongside other items.

Handmade tortillas stand out with fresh corn flavor and soft texture. Burritos, tacos, and chicharrones all come wrapped or served with these handcrafted tortillas.

Good to know

1

They offer fresh masa and quality meat.

2

This place is the best for buying tamale ingredients.

3

They also sell all kinds of fruits and vegetables.

05
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Mexican restaurant with a peaceful back patio and culture-appropriate music creates a welcoming atmosphere. Busy and popular spot known for handmade tortillas and affordable, tasty tacos. The setting feels like a neighborhood gem with a clean, neat dining room and plenty of parking.

Beef tamales stand out with tasty fillings and a soft texture. Prices lean toward the higher side but the flavor matches the cost.

Soft, handmade corn tortillas stand out with a homemade style and perfect cooking. They hold up well with fillings like pollo and carne asada, making tacos delicious even when ordered as takeout.

People are saying

"I thought the handmade tortillas with carne asada were amazing."

"I found the tamales here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos at two dollars each.

2

Expect longer wait times on Taco Tuesdays due to high demand.

3

There is plenty of parking available near the restaurant.

06
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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.

Tortillas de harina come fresh and pair well with grilled chicken, peppers, and onions. The salsa complements the tortillas, making the sides hit just right.

People are saying

"The tortillas here are a great deal with the whole chicken."

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

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.

07
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Store offers freshly made tortillas and homemade birria with strong local reputation. Atmosphere shows lack of cleanliness and outdated maintenance, with some products expired. Prices vary from reasonable for tortillas to high for other items.

Fresh masa stands out for making tamales. Oaxacan tamales with mole and cheese offer rich flavors.

Freshly made corn tortillas stand out for their delicious taste and quality. Lines form because many find the wait worth it for these excellent tortillas.

People are saying

"I found the tortillas here to be the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours with over 20 people in line.

2

Prices for tortillas and produce are generally good compared to other local stores.

3

Cleanliness could be improved, as there are concerns about mold on tortillas.

08
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Family-run Mexican deli with a calm, welcoming atmosphere and steady customer flow. Menu features handmade tortillas, fresh ingredients, and authentic dishes like tamales and Machaca. Small town charm blends with traditional, spotless setting and fair prices.

Steaming fresh tamales come extra juicy and homemade with every order. They prepare everything from scratch, including tortillas and salsas, making the tamales stand out.

Flour tortillas stand out for their exceptional softness and almost magical flavor. Corn tortillas are homemade and deliver a fresh, crispy texture that clearly shows the care in preparation.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the breakfast burrito and tamales here."

"I haven't found a better burrito, the tortillas are the best."

Good to know

1

Catering services are available at fair prices for events.

2

The restaurant closes at 5 PM daily.

3

Expect a short wait time during peak hours.

09
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Handmade tortillas made fresh to order define the space, creating a homemade food vibe and authentic Mexican atmosphere. The environment feels cozy and welcoming, with a family-run energy that invites guests to enjoy traditional dishes in a clean, open setting.

Tamales come with moist masa that is thinner than usual and filled with fresh meat or chicken. Cheese and jalapeรฑo options pair well with green and red sauces for added flavor.

Fresh tortillas come straight from the kitchen, soft and melting in your mouth. These house-made tortillas stand out for their amazing freshness and delicious flavor.

People are saying

"I found the handmade tortillas here to be super fresh and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

All tortillas are made by hand and made to order.

2

You have to pre-order the masa a day in advance.

3

The restaurant had a perfect health inspection report.

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Market combines rustic look with a relaxed atmosphere that feels like a Mexican vacation. It offers full-service bakery, deli, and BBQ spot, plus a beer cave with craft selections. Space feels cozy and a bit cramped, with friendly staff and a variety of international foods.

Fresh-made tortillas and vegan masa support making tamales here. The market offers a wide variety of meats, homemade tortillas, sauces, and tamales with great meat quality and delicious flavor.

Fresh tortillas are made in-house with a wide variety including burrito size flour tortillas. Homemade tortillas come warm and pair well with meats and salsas available at the market.

People are saying

"You've gotta try their homemade tortillas; they're made fresh right here."

"I found the tamales here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of international and local food products.

2

Expect to find fresh tortillas and a bakery with house-made goods.

3

Prices on meat are competitive, making it a great value for shoppers.

11
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Grocery store offers a clean, well-lit space with a hot foods bar and self-serve tamale station. Energy stays lively and comfortable with friendly staff and good music. Customers find a cafeteria area for quick meals and enjoy a strong selection of Latin American products.

Fresh meat section features best tamales with a solid selection of prepared foods including tamales and sushi. Tamales stand out among other offerings like fresh fruit bowls, bakery goods, and Agua Frescas.

Warm, fresh tortillas come straight from the station, with flour tortillas tasting homemade. The tortilla section sits alongside a variety of fresh foods and homemade salsas.

People are saying

"I was impressed with the variety of fresh foods, including tamales."

"The flour tortillas taste homemade and are made fresh before your eyes."

Good to know

1

The supermarket has a butcher shop with a great selection of meats and seafood.

2

Expect a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables available daily.

3

The store features a grab-and-go section with ready-cooked meals.

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Guatemalan restaurant with a mini bakery and traditional decor offers a laid-back atmosphere with TVs showing soccer games. The vibe is inviting and family-friendly, featuring authentic dishes like pupusas and atol de elote. Generous portions and good music create a relaxed dining experience.

Tamales come with chipilรญn, offering a traditional flavor. They appear alongside handmade tortillas and other classic dishes like platanos fritos and empanadas.

Fresh tortillas come handmade and served warm with beans for dipping. Breakfast plates include fresh tortillas alongside eggs, chorizo, and plantains.

People are saying

"The pupusas here are enormous and savory, with crispy cheese edges."

"I thought the tamales here were great."

Good to know

1

There is a 30-40 minute wait during peak hours, especially on weekends.

2

The menu features Guatemalan, Salvadorian, and Mexican dishes, with a focus on traditional cuisine.

3

Take-out special includes a dozen pupusas and four horchatas for $55.

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Mexican grocery store offers wide aisles and an expansive, bright layout with an inviting atmosphere that feels like a festival. Live music, a bustling food court, and outdoor dining areas create a lively community space. Unique features include a ceviche bar, tamale bar, fresh-made tortillas, and an excellent bakery with sweet bread and bolillos.

A tamale bar offers warmed tamales ready to eat. Fresh tortillas and a ceviche bar complement the selection. The tamales come with chili sauces for home use.

Freshly made tortillas come off a large machine right on site, showcasing their simple and organic three-ingredient recipe. The selection includes house-made tortillas alongside chips, all crafted with care and freshness.

People are saying

"You can watch them make the tortillas right before your eyes."

"I found the tamales delicious and loved the warmed tamales bar."

Good to know

1

Samples are offered on weekends for visitors to try products.

2

The market is known for its wide variety of Mexican ingredients.

3

Fresh produce and authentic Mexican items are well-stocked.

14
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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.

Handmade tortillas stand out with their fresh texture and authentic flavor. They pair well with tacos, tortas, and chili verde, enhancing each dish.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the excellent homemade tortillas here."

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.

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Tight, old-school deli with authentic Mexican vibe and loud mariachi music outdoors. Women slap tortillas in sync over a giant comal, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. Outdoor community tables offer casual seating despite worn furniture.

Handmade tamales here are very delicious and come in all types. Ingredients like masa, dried chilies, and leaves are available for making tamales at home.

Handmade tortillas come fresh off a giant comal where ladies slap them in sync. The tortillas taste extraordinarily fresh and tasty, and the tortilla chips stand out as so good.

People are saying

"The handmade tortillas here are fresh and so yummy."

"These tamales are tasty and full of beef."

Good to know

1

On Saturdays and Sundays, they serve menudo.

2

Parking is tricky, so I parked on a nearby street and walked over.

3

The line can get long on weekends, but it moves fast.

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Mexican restaurant offers authentic traditional cuisine with handmade tortillas and rich menudo. Atmosphere feels beachy and welcoming with futbol on TV and lively older men socializing. Prices remain very fair and the place stays super clean.

Tamales come out dry here. They appear alongside tacos, soup, and quesadillas on the menu.

Handmade tortillas stand out with their freshness and solid quality. They pair well with great salsa and complement dishes like menudo and chorizo.

People are saying

"You have to try their tamales; they're authentic and made with love."

"I found the handmade tortillas to be on point."

Good to know

1

Parking is tricky; you need to pass the light and turn right.

2

Neca Kitchen serves authentic traditional Mexican cuisine.

3

Call ahead for takeout orders as everything is made fresh.

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Market combines fresh produce, affordable meats, and homemade tortillas in a slow-paced setting. It features a beer cave and a full butcher section with competitive prices. The atmosphere feels welcoming and convenient for quick shopping trips.

Fresh tamales come daily with handmade flour tortillas. Hot tamales are also available, making for a great takeout option.

Freshly made flour and corn tortillas come out hot and soft. Handmade tortillas pair well with daily fresh tamales and in-house salsas.

People are saying

"I loved the fresh flour tortillas and warm corn tortillas."

"I thought the tamales here were great and fresh."

Good to know

1

The store has a full butcher section with affordable meat prices.

2

Parking is plentiful and easy to access.

3

The produce area is extensive and always well-stocked.

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Butcher shop offers affordable prices and generous meat portions with excellent tortillas and phenomenal carnitas especially on weekends. Tamales vary widely in quality, ranging from best in town to poor and reheated. Phone and website contact are unreliable.

Freshly made tamales stand out for their quality meat and rich flavor. Both savory and dulce tamales offer a delicious taste that pairs well with other Mexican foods like tortillas and carnitas.

Freshly made tortillas stand out for their delicious and fresh quality. Yellow corn tortillas show great flavor and texture.

People are saying

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

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

Good to know

1

The prices at Ramirez Meat Market are affordable.

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Small grocery store offers freshly made tortillas, excellent masa for tamales, and a strong selection of meats. Atmosphere feels busy and packed, especially early when sweet bread and biscuits sell quickly. Parking space is very limited, adding to the crowded experience.

Masa for tamales stands out for its excellent quality and great flavor. Freshly made tamale dough and tortillas from pure fresh corn are available and consistently good.

Fresh-made tortillas come warm and soft, made from pure fresh corn and tamale dough. Packs of tortillas and masa for tamales are consistently delicious and highly recommended.

People are saying

"I thought the tortillas here were the best I had ever tasted."

"The masa for the tamales is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking can get full during festive weekends.

2

Get there early; sweet bread and biscuits sell out quickly.

3

Place your order a day in advance for guaranteed availability.

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Small storefront with limited seating creates a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere. Crowds gather, especially on weekends, giving the place a busy, lively vibe. Authentic Guerrerense Mexican flavors stand out despite the compact space.

Green mole and red mole stand out with tamales nejos. Mole verde also pairs well with tamales tortilla, offering rich, traditional flavors.

Soft, handmade tortillas come with dishes like goat birria and menudo. They pair well with traditional coastal flavors and a touch of spice.

People are saying

"You have to try the handmade tortillas here."

"I tried the red mole tamales nejos and menudo."

Good to know

1

Expect limited parking availability near the restaurant.

2

The restaurant can get busy during weekends, so arrive early.

3

Prices are generally high, with meals costing around $35.

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Small grocery store with a focus on authentic Latin flavors and freshly made flour tortillas. Atmosphere tends to be busy and tense, with customers often in a bad mood. Offers exceptional fresh meat and produce, alongside homemade pastries and hot soups.

Tamales come fresh made with pure MAZA and include spicy pork options. Some tamales are hot and flavorful, but occasional issues with hygiene appear.

Freshly made flour tortillas stand out for their soft texture and authentic taste. Corn tortillas and chips also maintain consistent quality, reflecting attention to traditional preparation methods.

People are saying

"These tamales are spicy and delicious."

"I found the tortillas here to be the best I could find."

Good to know

1

Apple Tree Market offers a variety of authentic groceries and food with a focus on Latin flavors.

2

The butcher shop provides fresh meat at competitive prices compared to larger supermarkets.

3

In March 2024, Apple Tree Market accepts EBT stamps for hot foods.

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Small space fills with warmth and neighborhood pride, creating a homey atmosphere. Handmade tortillas and authentic menudo stand out as soulful, flavorful dishes. Prices are high, and portions vary, but the vibe remains unapologetically genuine.

Tamales come fresh out of the pot with a wonderful and flavorful taste that matches traditional expectations. The elote tamale stands out as sweet and tender, evoking a nostalgic feel.

Fresh, handmade tortillas soak up flavors well, especially in the red salsa chilaquiles which are saucy and tangy. Tortillas and service stay consistently on point.

People are saying

"The tamales here are warm, soulful, and unapologetically flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $39 for two servings to go.

2

Two eggs on the side cost $8, while a plate with two eggs and rice costs $18.

3

The restaurant can get busy, so plan for potential wait times.

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Supermarket offers wide variety of Hispanic foods and freshly cooked items like carnitas and tamales. Spacious and very clean environment with a welcoming atmosphere and aromas from the food court. Prices vary, with some items affordable and others higher than nearby stores.

Tamales come in a variety of flavors and are consistently delicious. They offer both fresh and cooked options alongside other dishes like chiciron.

Fresh tortillas come in yellow corn variety and taste good. They pair well with guacamole and green salsa.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be the best I have ever had."

"I loved the fresh tortillas they offered."

Good to know

1

Vallarta Supermarket offers a wide variety of Hispanic foods and products.

2

The prices on meat during sales are often unbeatable.

3

EBT is accepted for cold items only.

24
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Small diner-style space offers cozy no-frills charm with warm, vibrant colors that add authenticity. Atmosphere stays easygoing and casual, attracting those seeking authentic Mexican cuisine with homemade tortillas and standout tacos.

Homemade tortillas come fresh and soft, crafted onsite with care. The thick corn tortillas hold up well to heating and elevate every dish, from burritos to tacos.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in the small strip mall.

2

They serve menudo only on weekends.

3

The combination meal costs under $13.00.

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Small taco spot with only three tightly packed tables offers a lively and energetic atmosphere. Interior features well-decorated, neat design that creates a welcoming, homey vibe. Music plays loudly, adding to the high-energy environment despite the compact space.

Tamales de corundas and elote tamales stand out with strong corn flavors. Tamales come fresh from the pot, ready to eat without fuss.

Freshly made tortillas stand out with their soft texture and handmade quality. They come with dishes like carnitas and birria combos, complementing the meats and sides well.

People are saying

"The tortillas here are freshly handmade and soft."

"These elote tamales taste just like eating corn."

Good to know

1

Carnitas sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

Street parking is available, but can be limited during busy hours.

3

The menu includes vegan options alongside traditional dishes.

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Mexican restaurant combines spacious seating with a bakery and market offering pastries and produce. Atmosphere stays warm and welcoming with a lowkey chill vibe and cozy decorations. Food service moves quickly despite kitchen activity, creating a lively but comfortable environment.

Bulk masa for tamales is available and considered really good. Hot tamales come from the cafe but tend to be greasy and hard. Large orders for parties or whole pots are allowed.

Tortillas come fresh from a working tortilla factory attached to the shop. They offer a variety of tortillas, including flour and corn, made for both the store and other restaurants.

People are saying

"I thought the masa for the tamales was really good."

"I found the tortillas here to be very good."

Good to know

1

A large order of beans or rice costs $12.95 each.

2

They allow bulk orders for parties or large gatherings.

3

The tortilleria is attached to a working tortilla factory.

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