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Authentic tamales

You are looking for the specific technique and tradition that only comes from a recipe passed down through generations. Anything less than the real thing is just a substitute.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
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Oaxacan restaurant

Oaxacan restaurant offers a warm and inviting atmosphere with attentive service and a down-to-earth vibe. Regulars enjoy authentic, flavorful Mexican dishes like breakfast burritos and mole tamales that stand out for their quality and taste.

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.

Mexican food here features authentic flavors and quality ingredients. Tamales stand out as truly traditional and flavorful.

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.

02
Tamales Veracruz MRV image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple, cozy interior creates a friendly, casual atmosphere that suits quick meals or relaxed dining. Regulars enjoy authentic Mexican flavors with standout dishes like tamales and chilaquiles. The spot feels like a neighborhood gem with a clean, comfortable vibe.

Tamales come fresh with a good chicken to masa ratio and savory, sweet, nutty chicken mole flavor. Options include banana leaf tamales and portions are generous and satisfying.

Big, authentic Mexican flavor stands out here with dishes like banana leaf tamales and empanadas. The menu offers a variety of authentic Mexican dishes not typical at other spots.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is packed with authentic, homemade flavor."

"I found the tamales here to be great and second to none."

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

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday.

2

Street parking is available off Wilton for easy access.

3

The menu includes many vegetarian options alongside meat dishes.

03
Tamales Alberto image 1
Mexican restaurant

Authentic Mexican restaurant with hole-in-the-wall charm and small outdoor tables that welcome dogs. Atmosphere feels affordable and casual, with a focus on soft, flavorful tamales and a variety of traditional dishes. Seating is limited but includes both indoor and outdoor options, creating a cozy, unpretentious vibe.

Green chicken tamales and mole tamales stand out with rich, authentic flavors. Varieties like pork with red sauce and chili and cheese offer excellent taste and good value.

Authentic tamales stand out with traditional flavors. The chilaquiles also capture genuine Mexican taste in a simple, unpretentious setting.

People are saying

"These tamales are the yummiest I ever had."

"I found the Mexican tamales here to be authentic."

"The green salsa has a nice kick and great flavor."

Good to know

1

You have to purchase tamales in half dozen or more, with no option for partial flavors.

2

Tamales Alberto offers vegan options for their chilaquiles.

3

Parking can be a little tough, but there is open street parking available.

04
Colombia Parce image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere with Colombian ambient music setting a pleasant tone. The vibe ranges from quiet and cozy to lively depending on the music volume. It attracts those seeking authentic Colombian comfort food with a variety of flavorful dishes.

Tamales Tolimenses stand out with their perfect seasoning and well-cooked peas. The Colombian tamale offers a subtle yet strong flavor that feels homemade and very flavorful.

Cuisine features authentic Colombian flavors with a wide variety of traditional dishes. Food tastes fresh and real authentic in every bite.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and thoughtfully prepared."

"The food here is full of authentic Colombian flavor."

"These tamales are amazing, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and wait times can exceed three hours.

2

Menu prices are higher than average for the quality offered.

3

No toddler seats are available for families with young children.

05
Tamale Man image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walls display family pictures and awards, creating a homey atmosphere. Tamales stand out as large, flavorful, and moist, often compared to homemade cooking. The place offers authentic Mexican breakfast with a welcoming, dive-style setting.

Tamales come huge and moist with a perfect balance of masa and filling. The red-pork tamales are saucy, meaty, and spicy, while the green chile and cheese ones offer a fantastic flavor.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. Dishes taste super authentic and deliver genuine Mexican cuisine.

People are saying

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

"The food here is super authentic and delicious."

"You'll feel right at home with their welcoming coffee."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $39 for two super tamales with rice and beans.

2

Prices listed online may differ from actual prices at the restaurant.

3

Bring cash as some vendors may not accept credit cards.

06
La Noche Buena Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a cozy, historic vibe nestled in a bustling market setting. Staff wear white shirts and caps, adding to the nostalgic atmosphere. The space feels crammed and intimate, creating a lively yet comfortable dining experience.

Chicken and cheese tamales appear on combos and a la carte orders. Tamales come without meat in some options. Combos include tamales with taquitos, rice, and beans for a set price.

Dishes deliver authentic Mexican flavors using quality ingredients. The restaurant feels like a genuine local spot with true-to-tradition food.

People are saying

"The carnitas tacos and tamales here are delicious."

"These tamales taste exceptional, made with fresh ingredients."

"I found the most authentic Mexican food here."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is located on Olvera Street, which is a narrow market street.

2

La Noche Buena Restaurant opens at 7am, perfect for early risers.

3

A plate of beans and rice with a choice of egg costs $9-$10 per person.

07
Los 5 Puntos image 1

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.

Offers authentic Mexican cuisine with a focus on East LA tacos that have a flavorful, old-school taste. Food is made quickly and includes items like burrito de surtido and homemade tortillas.

People are saying

"The food's authentic Mexican taste, especially the sopes and tamales, is delicious."

"These tamales are tasty and full of beef."

"You have to try the authentic East LA tacos here; they're incredible."

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.

08
K Bakery image 1
Bakery

Bakery offers authentic Mexican bread and traditional Hispanic snacks in a vibrant, no-frills setting with ample seating. The atmosphere stays chill and inviting, attracting many bread lovers. It stands out for fresh, affordable options including vegan choices and savory dishes alongside sweets.

Tamales come in green chicken, red pork, and cheese with strips varieties, all very tasty. They stand out as some of the most enjoyable and savory tamales around.

Offers authentic Mexican flavors with a no frills, mom and pop vibe. Prices stay affordable, making genuine Mexican food accessible.

People are saying

"I loved the sweet bread and bolillos here."

"I loved the variety of sweet breads and fresh fruit water."

"I found the pan dulce here to be delicious and authentic."

Good to know

1

K Bakery offers a variety of authentic Mexican pastries and savory dishes.

2

Parking is available on the street, but it can be challenging.

3

Prices are not displayed on many items, so be prepared for surprises.

09
Armenia Restaurante Salvadoreรฑo image 1

Interior divides into two areas with a central cash register partly obscured by snacks. Atmosphere feels cozy and family-friendly, enhanced by soft Salvadoran music from a live trio. Decor includes beautiful landscapes of El Salvador and festive touches, creating a pleasant and welcoming environment.

Freshly made tamales stand out here, especially the chicken tamale, fried corn tamales, and tamales de elote. The flavors are consistently delicious and remind of traditional tastes.

Meals feature authentic Salvadoran flavor with hearty dishes and pupusas that stand out. A wide variety of delicious breads also highlight the genuine taste.

People are saying

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

"I found the fried corn tamales here to be very delicious."

"I loved the authentic pupusas, packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

Parking is readily available near the restaurant.

2

The bathrooms are very clean and well-maintained.

3

Expect a variety of Central American dishes on the menu.

10
La Original Panaderia El Salvador image 1

Tiny bakery offers authentic Salvadoran bread with a wide variety of freshly baked sweet bread and pastries daily. Atmosphere feels cozy and intimate due to small space and no dine-in options. Bread is consistently warm and soft, drawing a loyal following for its quality and traditional flavors.

Tamales feature a thin dough and include beans inside. They come alongside pupusas and a specialty sweet bread.

Offers authentic Salvadoran bread and quesadilla. Food stays true to Salvadoran flavors.

People are saying

"I found the Salvadoran bread to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the Salvadoran quesadillas to be made to perfection."

"The bread here is always delicious and freshly baked."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a wide variety of Salvadoran bread and pastries.

2

Freshly baked sweet bread and pastries are available daily.

3

Prices at the bakery are competitive compared to other local options.

11
King Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Spacious taco restaurant with a simple, peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff. Regulars enjoy authentic street tacos and green salsa, often praising carne asada burritos and mole tamales. The place suits quiet gatherings and offers consistent taste across visits.

Mole tamales stand out with exceptional flavor. Chicken and green chile tamales also show up well, alongside consistently delicious options like carne asada and red tamales.

Food and drinks show authentic Mexico City flavors. The menu stays consistently authentic with solid tacos and traditional drinks.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos here were the world's best Mexican food."

"I found the mole tamales exceptionally flavorful."

"I found the food here to be solid and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the rear with enough space for wheelchairs.

2

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

3

The restaurant is open late, making it a good option for late-night dining.

12
Catrina Mexican & Seafood image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful decorations and live Mariachi music creates a laid-back atmosphere with a friendly vibe. Spacious interior offers comfortable booths and a bar, making it suitable for family dinners. Dark-tinted windows and ongoing decor improvements add to its unique character.

Tamales come in carne asada, chicken enchilada, beef, and rajas con queso varieties. Portions tend to be thin and served with a separate salsa.

Food offers true authentic Mexican flavors with a subtle twist. Family-owned style brings hearty portions and flavorful dishes that stand out among Mexican spots.

People are saying

"The food here is excellent and tastes authentic, not Americanized."

"The beef tamale here has excellent meat quality with rich, delicious sauces."

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

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 8am.

2

Taco Tuesday features special deals, announced via Instagram.

3

There is a 4% surcharge for credit card payments.

13
La Usuluteca image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Bright red awning marks a clean deli with an in-house bakery offering pan dulce and pupusas. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, suitable for quick lunches or takeout. Regulars enjoy authentic Salvadoran flavors alongside an array of baked goods.

Tasty tamales come with sweet bread and Salvadoran quesadillas. The tamales have a delicious flavor that stands out.

Food and desserts show authentic Central American flavors. Fresh, authentic Salvadorian pastries stand out as a key feature.

People are saying

"The pupusas and pan dulce here are so delicious."

"I loved this authentic Central American bakery and its pastries."

"I loved the tamales here; they were so tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is ample and easy to find near La Usuluteca.

2

They charge an extra $0.50 for credit card payments.

3

A quesadilla costs $12, which is on the higher side.

14
La Flor De Yucatan Bakery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy bakery with authentic Yucatecan baked goods and freshly made bread fills the air with warm aromas. Casual setup includes outdoor tables but mostly favors takeout and delivery. Known for unique hojaldra and flavorful tamales, it offers a genuine taste of Yucatรกn cuisine.

Tamales come with flavorful chicken and pork fillings and have a good balance of filling to masa. Some tamales arrive frozen and very cold, but they maintain authentic taste.

Offers authentic Yucatecan baked goods like hojaldra and tamales with a cozy atmosphere. Prices tend to be on the higher side for these traditional items.

People are saying

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

"I loved the flavorful tamales, perfectly filled."

"I think their hojaldra is the best, truly authentic."

Good to know

1

They offer both baked goods and tasty Yucateco dishes.

2

The bakery offers a variety of traditional Yucatecan breads.

3

Takeout is popular due to the small size of the bakery.

15
King Taco # 2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Classic Mexican restaurant with cafeteria-style seating and plentiful indoor and outdoor tables. Atmosphere blends old school East Los Angeles charm with a family-friendly vibe despite occasional high noise levels. Food truck and outdoor vendors add to the lively, traditional setup.

Juicy pork tamales feature generous, tender meat paired with two salsas. They stand out as very juicy and preferred over tacos and burritos here.

Tacos come with authentic Mexican flavors and the salsas are spicy hot. Horchata tastes very authentic and the prices stay affordable for the quality.

People are saying

"I thought the tacos and burritos here were outstanding."

"The salsa roja had the perfect kick."

"I found the tacos to be the best authentic tacos I had."

Good to know

1

King Taco # 2 is open until 3am, but expect long lines after 1am.

2

Parking is plentiful at King Taco # 2, making it easy to visit.

3

The location can get very busy during Dodgers game days, so plan accordingly.

16
Guelaguetza Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious indoor and outdoor seating features colorful decor and authentic Oaxacan roots. Live music, including a marimba band and mariachi, creates a lively, noisy atmosphere that immerses diners in culture. A large mezcal selection complements the vibrant setting.

Handmade corn tortillas accompany mole tamales that showcase traditional Oaxacan flavors. The tamales stand out for their authentic preparation and rich taste.

Real authentic Mexican food shines here, especially the Mole and Oaxacan dishes. The Tlayuda stands out as a very authentic and delicious option.

People are saying

"I tasted the most authentic Oaxacan food I've ever had in the USA."

"The atmosphere here is so lively with live music and colorful decor."

"I found the handmade tamales here to be perfect."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially on weekends.

2

The restaurant only accepts cash, so plan accordingly.

3

Valet parking is available but can be expensive.

17
El Gallo Giro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Freshly baked bread and roasting meat create a welcoming aroma that fills the space. Mexican music adds a lively energy, encouraging movement and dance. The Dia de los Muertos theme and altar provide a distinctive cultural touch that enhances the inviting atmosphere.

Tamales here have light meat filling and sometimes lack strong flavors like pineapple or corn. Some tamales are undercooked, and the Oaxacan tamale is priced high without matching quality.

Traditional Mexican bread comes fresh daily with authentic homemade flavor. Salsas hold true to classic recipes, and service feels genuine and authentic.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I loved the tamales here."

"I found the food to be super authentic and amazing."

Good to know

1

The tamales are not ready until 9am on weekends.

2

The parking lot is small and often crowded.

3

El Gallo Giro offers over 35 varieties of traditional breads.

18
La Fonda Antioquena image 1
Colombian restaurant

Small space filled with Colombian culture and live music creates a family-friendly and vibrant atmosphere. The setting feels cozy and traditional, welcoming guests with warmth and energy. Crowding is common due to limited seating, adding to the lively vibe.

Tamales come fresh and delicious here, with a standout aji sauce that rivals versions from Colombia. Both the tamales and pandebono show clear attention to authentic flavors.

Fresh, homemade dishes showcase authentic Colombian cuisine with strong Antioquian flavors. The food consistently tastes genuine and traditional.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions were great."

"I loved the authentic Colombian food here; it tasted homemade."

"The tamales here are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking at La Fonda Antioquena is always packed during meal times.

2

Double-check your bill before leaving to ensure correct charges.

3

An 18% service charge is automatically added to your bill.

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