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Tamales and seafood

Finding tamales that feature fresh seafood turns a simple meal into a deliberate, slow experience.

Based on 616 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tamales Veracruz MRV image 1
Tamales Veracruz MRV image 2
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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.

Shrimp stands out with perfect cooking and strong flavor. Shrimp tacos deliver a fire taste and appear on variety plates alongside other meats.

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."

"The shrimp tacos here are fire and incredibly juicy."

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.

02
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with black walls and ambient lighting creates an intimate, elegant vibe. A cool cave-like hallway leads to extra seating, adding a unique touch. Music from a DJ keeps energy chill while good acoustics allow easy conversation.

Kare Kare Tamales blend Filipino and Mexican flavors in a unique fusion. They offer a mix of comfort and sophistication that stands out consistently.

Seafood shines with Filipino Ceviche featuring gulf shrimp and fresh clams served with wonton chips. Hamachi Kilawin offers a unique flavor combo paired with shrimp crackers, while the fried fish stands out as excellent.

People are saying

"The Filipino food here is fresh and creatively elevated."

"I'd return just for the delicious tamales."

"The seafood here is amazing, especially the crispy Pritong Rockfish."

Good to know

1

There is a public parking lot across the street.

2

Sampa does not have a liquor license yet; only mocktails are available.

3

Reservations are recommended for the tasting menu.

03
California Grill image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Latin American decor creates a homely, welcoming vibe with saints' statues and Virgin of Guadalupe imagery. Music features 80s Spanish ballads, adding to the authentic tropical atmosphere. Locals bring lively energy, making the place feel like an Abuelita's kitchen.

Moist tamales packed with chicken and well-seasoned masa stand out here. Prices range around $3 to $3.50, offering solid value.

Fried fish stands out with its crispy texture and whole presentation. Garlic shrimp offers a flavorful, garlicky punch. Quesadillas and pupusas add variety with their stuffed, savory fillings.

People are saying

"This Local Spot feels like entering an Abuelita's kitchen."

"I wondered how the pupusas could possibly be so cheap."

"The owner Joana was a joy to interact with."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash, so plan accordingly.

2

Meter parking is available outside, but finding a spot can be tough.

3

Prices are very reasonable, making it a great value for quality food.

04
Ditroit Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor dining occupies a narrow, hidden space with a chill vibe and lovely atmosphere. The spot feels like a small taco oasis with deliciously spicy salsas at a compact salsa bar. Seating uses plasticware, and the setting offers free parking nearby.

Menu includes elevated Mexican street food with tamales among staples. The pepper and cheese tamale stands out as a notable option.

Fish Flauta stands out as a signature dish, often paired with tacos like suadero and duck carnitas. Drinks like palo santo yuzu Agua Fresca complement the seafood offerings well.

People are saying

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing."

"You have to try the fish flauta; it's amazing."

"You have to try the pepper and cheese tamale."

Good to know

1

There is free parking at Ditroit Taqueria.

2

They have a parking lot right next to the restaurant, which provides peace of mind.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

05
Sabrositas Pupusas image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small outdoor setup offers only takeout with no indoor seating, creating a limited dining space. Crowded parking in a busy business district adds to the challenging access. Food features authentic Salvadoran pupusas with hefty portions and careful packaging for pickup.

Fried corn tamales and chicken tamales wrapped in grape leaves stand out here. The tamales de elote offer a sweet corn flavor, complementing the savory options well.

Shrimp comes deveined and pairs well with juicy, tender grilled steak or carne asada. Dishes include rice, beans, and tortillas for a complete meal.

People are saying

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

"The grilled steak and shrimp were savory, juicy, and tender."

"I had the tamales and they were very good."

Good to know

1

Parking is crowded and located in a busy business district.

2

The restaurant is wheelchair accessible.

3

Call ahead with your order to avoid long wait times.

06
Vallarta Supermarkets image 1

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.

A fresh meat counter offers a wide variety of seafood including fresh fish and good shrimp. Cooked options like fried fish and seafood platters are available in the grab and go section.

People are saying

"I loved this grocery store; it exceeded my expectations."

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

"I was surprised by the fresh seafood selection here."

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.

07
El Cholo - The Original image 1
Mexican restaurant

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-jalapeรฑo tamale offer distinct flavors that many find impressive.

Enchiladas with shrimp feature fresh seafood flavors and come in varieties like chicken and shrimp or cheese with shrimp. The mariscos enchiladas deliver a clear seafood taste that stands out.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican food; it was beautiful and delicious."

"The Mexican food's margaritas were excellent and a highlight."

"The seafood enchiladas were seasoned and spiced just right."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $9, with valet service available.

2

Green corn tamales are available from May through October.

3

USC students get 50% off with a valid ID.

08
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.

Wide variety of fresh seafood shines here, including octopus, shrimp, and a seafood tower. Dishes like the Molcajete De Marisco feature seafood cooked in butter and garlic, and spicy sauces get heated to boost flavor.

People are saying

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

"I loved the flavorful seafood, especially the shrimp."

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

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.

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