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.
Salsas strike a perfect balance of heat and kick with a touch of pain. They complement tacos topped with nopales, cilantro, and onion, adding spicy but perfect flavor to each bite.
"These tamales are tasty and full of beef."
"The carnitas here are juicy and flavorful."
Good to know
On Saturdays and Sundays, they serve menudo.
Parking is tricky, so I parked on a nearby street and walked over.
The line can get long on weekends, but it moves fast.
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.
Green salsa stands out with its amazing flavor and pairs well with tostadas. Salsas on the table are consistently delicious and enhance the meal.
"These tamales taste exceptional, made with fresh ingredients."
"The salsas here are amazing and delicious."
Good to know
The restaurant is located on Olvera Street, which is a narrow market street.
La Noche Buena Restaurant opens at 7am, perfect for early risers.
A plate of beans and rice with a choice of egg costs $9-$10 per person.
A small Mexican restaurant with a back patio offering outdoor seating. The air carries a strong scent of fresh masa and simmering chiles, creating a rich, authentic atmosphere. Known for large, flavorful tamales made without lard, it draws a crowd despite limited parking and a takeout-focused setup.
Big and tasty tamales stand out here, especially the green chicken and sweet corn varieties. Prices stay fair, and many return regularly for these flavorful tamales.
Chicken tamales come with salsa verde that is flavorful and moist. Green salsa stands out as really good, complementing the tamales well.
"I thought the tamales here were the best I ever had."
"The salsa here has the meat outside the masa."
Good to know
Parking is very limited, which can be a problem.
The tamales are $4 each and are pretty big and filling.
They don't take small orders over the phone.
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.
Green salsa stands out with its spicy kick and warmth. Portions come with chips and salsa that complement breakfast well.
"These tamales are the yummiest I ever had."
"The green salsa has a nice kick and great flavor."
Good to know
You have to purchase tamales in half dozen or more, with no option for partial flavors.
Tamales Alberto offers vegan options for their chilaquiles.
Parking can be a little tough, but there is open street parking available.
Small, casual Salvadoran spot offers fresh pupusas and vegan options in a cozy, family atmosphere. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, with food made to order and reasonable prices. Bread and pastries sell out early, highlighting local popularity.
Red salsa stands out with its mild spice and good flavor. Pupusas come with generous fillings and pair well with curtido and salsa, enhancing the overall taste.
"The pupusas are exceptional, generously filled and perfect with curtido and salsa."
Good to know
Most breads and pastries sell out early, so arrive early for the best selection.
Parking can be difficult, but free residential parking is available nearby.
Expect a 20-25 minute wait for food after ordering.
Historic Mexican restaurant with nostalgic decor and divided dining areas creates a cozy, old-timey vibe. Strong, flavorful margaritas and classic Hispanic dishes define the experience. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a mix of quiet booths and lively spaces.
Green corn tamales stand out with a seasonal window from May through October. The sweet corn tamales and a corn-jalapeño tamale offer distinct flavors that many find impressive.
Salsa here is consistently on point, with the salsa verde standing out as excellent. Extra chips and salsa often come generously with the order.
"The chips and salsa were delicious and homemade."
"You have to try the green corn tamales; they're fantastic."
Good to know
Parking costs $9, with valet service available.
Green corn tamales are available from May through October.
USC students get 50% off with a valid ID.
Small, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a family atmosphere and wide variety of tamale flavors. Tamales are moist and delicious, often considered some of the best in the area. Parking is challenging due to a small lot and busy intersection location.
Tamales here are delicious and moist with generous portions of chicken or beef. They stay tasty for days and come with fast service and friendly staff who sometimes offer complimentary samples.
Salsa here offers a good amount of spice, especially the salsa verde which is worth asking for. Sometimes it comes reluctantly and in small amounts, but adding extra salsa makes dishes noticeably spicier.
"I found the tamales here to be delicious and moist."
"These tamales are so delicious, everyone loved them."
Good to know
Parking is free but the lot is small.
The parking can be challenging.
Expect to spend around $40 for five tamales and drinks.
Tiny space with a cozy, mom and pop vibe and a welcoming atmosphere suits family and friends gathering. Festive music plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the relaxed energy. Outdoor patio features twinkle lights and ample space for seating.
Complimentary chips come with homemade salsa that has a lighter yet spicier flavor. The salsa delivers a slow burn that sneaks up gradually.
"The salsa has a slow burn that sneaks up on you."
Good to know
Parking around Gloria's Cafe is not the best due to the surrounding apartments.
Happy hour is all day on Fridays with great deals on drinks.
The portions at Gloria's Cafe are huge at a reasonable price.
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.
Complimentary chips and salsa come with every order. The salsa tastes great and pairs well with the guacamole.
"The beef tamale here has excellent meat quality with rich, delicious sauces."
"The chips and salsa were good."
Good to know
Breakfast is served on Saturdays and Sundays starting at 8am.
Taco Tuesday features special deals, announced via Instagram.
There is a 4% surcharge for credit card payments.