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Tamales and tacos in Los Angeles

You do not want to choose between a quick handheld bite and a proper meal. You need a place that respects the craft of the tamale while offering the variety of a taco shop.

Based on 592 Opinions
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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.

Tacos feature rich, savory birria with perfectly tender meat and a flavor-packed consomรฉ dip. The asada tacos and Quesa Birria Taco with an egg offer strong, enjoyable flavors.

People are saying

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

"The birria tacos are outstanding with rich, savory meat."

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.

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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.

Tacos come with handmade tortillas and fillings like buche, cabeza, and lengua. Options include carnitas and tacos de chicharron, all served delicious and fresh.

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.

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Small Mexican restaurant with limited dine-in space and family-owned roots offers a clean, well-lit setting. The atmosphere is casual and straightforward, with generous portions of highly regarded tamales that draw long holiday lines. Service is informal, with cash accepted and inconsistent online ordering.

Tamales come packed with lots of meat and sauce and strong flavor. Chicken, pork, and cheese varieties stand out with high quality and generous portions.

Tacos come with care and love in their preparation. Options include cabeza meat tacos and others that pair well with burritos and tamales.

People are saying

"I thought these were the best tamales I ever had."

"I thought the tamales here were some of the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

They accept cash, but Uber Eats orders are often canceled.

2

Expect long wait times on weekends; arrive early for a seat.

3

Parking is usually available near the restaurant.

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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.

Meat tacos come stuffed with meat and feature handmade tortillas made without machines, highlighting traditional methods. Carnitas and tripe tacos stand out, paired well with horchata water.

People are saying

"You have to try the carnitas tacos; they were amazing."

"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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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.

Tacos come in varied styles alongside pupusas, tamales, and burritos. Options include tacos, tortas, and sandwiches with savory flavors for breakfast and lunch or dinner.

People are saying

"They offered a variety of food options including tacos, tortas, and burritos."

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

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.

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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.

Tacos come in carne asada, potato, and picadillo ground beef varieties, all with strong flavors. Crispy potato and shredded beef tacos offer a satisfying texture contrast.

People are saying

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

"I thought the potato tacos were the best."

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.

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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.

People are saying

"You have to try the green corn tamales; they're fantastic."

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.

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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.

Soft tacos and grilled fish tacos feature prominently alongside tamale carnitas and beef tacos. Mexican combos often pair enchiladas with tacos, offering a satisfying mix of flavors.

People are saying

"The grilled fish tacos here are great and authentically made."

Good to know

1

Parking around Gloria's Cafe is not the best due to the surrounding apartments.

2

Happy hour is all day on Fridays with great deals on drinks.

3

The portions at Gloria's Cafe are huge at a reasonable price.

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