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Tamales in Los Angeles

Tamales that taste like they came from a family kitchen rather than a mass-production line.

Based on 739 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Oaxacan restaurant

Oaxacan restaurant shines with authentic mole tamales and vegan options like mushroom and spinach. Warm atmosphere and attentive service make dining pleasant. Flavorful dishes and clear order updates keep guests coming back.

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.

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
Miss Donuts image 1
Donut shop

Donut shop serves mochi donuts and banana leaf tamales with pork and chicken. Prices are steep, like $21 for four small tamales. Atmosphere feels cramped, but sandwiches offer a quick lunch for tamale lovers and sweet tooths.

Tamales come in pork with red salsa and green salsa rib wrapped in banana leaves varieties. Four small tamales cost $21, with a mix of pork and chicken flavors available.

People are saying

"The pork and chicken tamales here are so delicious."

"I found the pork and chicken tamales delicious."

"I found the mochi donuts here to be awesome."

Good to know

1

Prices for tamales are high, with four small ones costing $21.

2

The doughnut selection is limited, which may disappoint some visitors.

3

They offer a variety of tamales and donuts for lunch options.

03
El Gallo Giro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Open kitchen shows fresh food prep in a chill, friendly space. Delicious chicken tamales shine as a main draw. Known for fresh bread and standout tacos, it offers consistent quality and a clean environment.

Tamales stand out here with a delicious chicken option and consistently good flavor. Many visits focus on these as the main draw.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos and tortas, is delicious."

"I thought the bread here was always fresh and delicious."

"I found the tamales here to be so good."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait for carnitas during peak lunch hours.

2

El Gallo Giro opens early and stays open late.

3

Prices are considered high, with drinks costing around $15.31.

04
California Grill image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Latin American decor with Virgin of Guadalupe imagery sets a warm, authentic tone. Moist tamales filled with chicken offer great value at $3 to $3.50. Lively locals and 80s Spanish ballads create a tropical atmosphere that feels 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.

People are saying

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

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

"The tamales here are moist and packed with chicken."

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.

05
Tamales Alberto image 1
Mexican restaurant

Authentic Mexican spot offers soft tamales like green chicken and mole with rich flavors. Cozy, casual vibe with small outdoor tables welcomes dogs. Affordable prices and traditional dishes make it a great casual eatery.

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.

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.

06
Sampa image 1
Filipino restaurant

Dark, moody space with ambient lighting sets an intimate vibe. Kare Kare Tamales offer a unique fusion of Filipino and Mexican flavors. Cool cave-like hallway adds a unique touch while DJ music keeps energy chill and conversations easy.

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

People are saying

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

"This fine dining reimagines Filipino classics with a refined sensibility."

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

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.

07
Tamales Veracruz MRV image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy spot offers authentic Mexican flavors with standout tamales featuring a savory chicken mole taste and generous portions. Casual, friendly vibe suits quick meals or relaxed dining, making it a neighborhood gem with a clean, comfortable feel.

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.

People are saying

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

"The chicken burrito was generous and well-seasoned."

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

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.

08
The Original Tamale Co. image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot offers large tamales with green chicken and sweet corn flavors. Outdoor seating on a cozy back patio adds charm. Fresh masa scent fills the air, creating an authentic atmosphere that keeps locals coming back.

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.

People are saying

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

"The tamales at the Farmer's Market were so good."

"The salsa here has the meat outside the masa."

Good to know

1

Parking is very limited, which can be a problem.

2

The tamales are $4 each and are pretty big and filling.

3

They don't take small orders over the phone.

09
K Bakery image 1
Bakery

Bakery shines with authentic Mexican bread and savory tamales like green chicken and red pork. Offers fresh, affordable snacks and vegan options in a vibrant, chill setting with plenty of seating. Perfect for those craving traditional Hispanic flavors.

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.

People are saying

"I loved the sweet bread and bolillos here."

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

"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.

10
La Morena Bakery & Tortilleria image 1

Bakery shines with spongy masa perfect for tamales and delicious tamale dough. Sweet bread and yellow tortillas offer rich flavor. Atmosphere feels authentic, focusing on traditional Mexican baked goods and homemade quality.

Masa for tamales stands out as spongy and salty, delivering a homemade feel. Tamale dough tastes delicious, though some tamales can be hard, dry, and lack flavor.

People are saying

"The tamale masa here is the best I've ever had."

"The Mexican food here has the best tamale dough, just like homemade."

"I found the sweet bread to be the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

La Morena Bakery & Tortilleria specializes in fresh dough for tamales.

2

Tamales are made fresh daily and available for purchase.

3

Cash is preferred, but credit cards may be accepted.

11
Lupita's Tamales image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican spot shines with generous tamales packed with meat and sauce. Casual, family-owned vibe offers clean, well-lit space and informal service. Popular for holiday lines, it accepts cash but has spotty 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.

People are saying

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

"I thought the food here was the best I had."

"I loved their chilaquiles burrito; it was great."

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.

12
Ramirez Bakery image 1

Bakery inside a shopping center offers fresh tamales that sell out fast and soft pan dulce like vanilla conchas. Cash-only policy keeps lines moving during busy mornings. Most grab food to go, but limited seating is available for a quick bite.

Tamales come out fresh in the morning and sell quickly. They taste great and tasty with a variety available alongside other snacks like jello and sweet bread.

People are saying

"I thought the tamales here were awesome and tasty."

"The bread here is soft, sweet, and has an amazing flavor."

"The Tres Reyes cake from this bakery is soft, pillowy, and tasty."

Good to know

1

Ramirez Bakery is a cash-only establishment.

2

Parking is difficult to find near the bakery.

3

The bakery sells out quickly, especially the vanilla conchas.

13
El Mexicano Market image 1
Mexican grocery store

Small Mexican grocery store offers fresh tortillas and high-quality masa perfect for tamales. Sinaloa style tamales are ready-to-eat and delicious. Vibrant, cramped layout feels like a traditional mercado full of authentic ingredients.

Sinaloa style tamales come ready-to-eat and taste very good. The market sells fresh masa dough that many find the best for making tamales, with all ingredients available for purchase.

People are saying

"This grocery store has the freshest meat and tortillas I've ever had."

"Their fresh tortillas and tamale dough are the best I've had."

"The tamale dough here has a very good consistency."

Good to know

1

The market has a large parking lot for customers.

2

Expect a crowded shopping experience, especially on weekends.

3

The market offers high-quality meat at fair prices.

14
Sabrositas Pupusas image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small outdoor spot offers authentic Salvadoran pupusas and fried corn tamales wrapped in grape leaves. Only takeout is available, with careful packaging for easy pickup. Busy business district means crowded parking and limited access.

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.

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.

15
Sandra's Tamales image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small takeout spot shines with fresh, moist tamales featuring saucy pork and beef fillings. Red chicken and sweet elote tamales offer unique flavors. Expect long holiday lines and cash-only payments, with tough parking nearby.

Tamales come with a saucy pork or beef filling that stays moist and tasty. Red chicken and sweet elote tamales stand out for their flavor and texture.

People are saying

"These tamales are the best Mexican food I've ever tasted."

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

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

Good to know

1

Cash only, so come prepared.

2

Tamales cost $3.00 each.

3

The place is only available for takeout.

16
La Perlita image 1

Family-owned bakery shines with handmade Mexican bread and a cozy atmosphere that feels like a community hub. Tamales impress with perfectly seasoned masa and tasty fillings like chicken and Port jalapeno cheese. Warm hospitality invites a casual, relaxed visit.

Tamales feature perfectly seasoned masa with delicious fillings like chicken and Port jalapeno cheese. Both savory and sweet options stand out for their excellent flavor.

People are saying

"These tamales are the best Mexican food I've had in a while."

"I thought this was the best bakery I have ever visited."

"I thought the tamales here were the best I'd had in a while."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for special orders like rosca de Reyes.

2

The bakery operates on a serve-yourself model; grab items and pay at the counter.

3

The bakery is open every day, making it convenient for visits.

17
La Indiana Tamales image 1

Small spot serves fresh handmade masa tamales with rich pork in red sauce and green chili cheese. Family-run with a no-frills atmosphere and high demand means lines form. Offers a variety of authentic Mexican snacks focusing on tradition and quality.

Tamales here have moist, flavorful masa with a rich, well-seasoned pork in red sauce and fresh chicken in green sauce. The green chili and cheese tamale stands out as especially good.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tamales, is moist and flavorful."

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

"This food is the best spot for tamales in town."

Good to know

1

There is no indoor seating; all orders are to go.

2

Expect long lines during holidays due to high demand.

3

Street parking is the only option available.

18
El Cholo - The Original image 1
Mexican restaurant

Historic Mexican spot shines with green corn tamales from May to October and classic Hispanic dishes. Cozy, nostalgic decor sets a warm vibe. Strong, flavorful margaritas add to the inviting atmosphere.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

19
La Usuluteca image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Bright red awning marks a clean deli with authentic Salvadoran flavors. Tasty tamales come with sweet bread and Salvadoran quesadillas. Casual, inviting atmosphere suits quick lunches or takeout with an in-house bakery offering pan dulce and pupusas.

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

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.

20
Little Barn Coffee House image 1
Vegan restaurant

Outdoor patio with dog-friendly seating creates a cozy vibe. Tamales offer gluten-free, vegan-friendly options full of flavor. Small space and walk-up ordering keep it casual and intimate.

Tamales pack a lot of flavor and come in multiple varieties. They serve as a gluten-free and vegan-friendly option that stands out for being satisfying and well-made.

People are saying

"I loved the vegan breakfast burrito and chicken pesto sandwich."

"The outdoor seating is really cute and atmospheric."

"The tamales here are legit and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The establishment is fully vegan with many plant-based dishes.

2

There are no customer restrooms available at Little Barn Coffee House.

3

They ask that people don’t stay longer than an hour.

21
Original Tommy's World Famous Hamburgers image 1

Fast food spot serves spicy chili tamales with optional extra chili. Open 24 hours with a busy lunch vibe and utilitarian seating inside and out. Atmosphere feels like 1970s nostalgia but can get rough at night.

Chili tamales come with a spicy, flavorful chili topping. Options include chili cheese tamales that some find greasy. Extra chili is available to add on the side.

People are saying

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

"I loved the chili on everything, especially the burgers."

"You have to try the chili tamales; they're spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

They are open 24 hours, including the drive-thru.

2

Parking is available in the rear of the restaurant.

3

Prices have increased significantly, so check the menu before ordering.

22
Ditroit Taqueria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Enjoy elevated Mexican street food with standout pepper and cheese tamales in a chill outdoor dining spot. Savor spicy salsas from a compact bar while relaxing in a cozy, hidden space with free parking nearby.

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

People are saying

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

"The carnitas tacos are tender and flavorful."

"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.

23
Wow Tamales by Tamales House - North Hills image 1

Small Mexican spot shines with moist tamales packed with chicken or beef. Friendly staff offer quick service and sometimes free samples. Parking is tough due to a tiny lot and busy street, but the family vibe makes it worth the visit.

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.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be delicious and moist."

"The food here is delicious and very traditional."

"These tamales are so delicious, everyone loved them."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but the lot is small.

2

The parking can be challenging.

3

Expect to spend around $40 for five tamales and drinks.

24
Colombia Parce image 1
Colombian restaurant

Colombian restaurant shines with authentic comfort food and a warm atmosphere filled with lively Colombian music. Tamales Tolimenses impress with perfect seasoning and a homemade, flavorful taste. Cozy yet vibrant, it suits both quiet meals and lively gatherings.

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.

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.

25
Pupusería Cuzcatlán image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Cozy Salvadoran spot shines with melt-in-your-mouth tamales and delicious pupusas. Soft music adds to the peaceful atmosphere. Simple recipes and fair prices make it a great choice for comfort food lovers.

Melt-in-your-mouth tamales feature a simple yet perfectly flavored recipe. These tamales focus on well-executed simplicity rather than eccentric stuffing or heavy seasoning.

People are saying

"The Salvadoran food here is fantastic and authentic."

"These tamales are melt-in-your-mouth heaven."

Good to know

1

The prices are reasonable, making it affordable for families.

2

The place maintains a clean environment, including restrooms.

3

Dishes are prepared without excessive grease, promoting healthier options.

26
Tamale Man image 1
Mexican restaurant

Walls show family photos and awards, creating a homey atmosphere. Tamales are huge and moist, with red-pork ones spicy and saucy, and green chile and cheese full of flavor. Authentic Mexican breakfast shines in 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.

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.

27
Wow Tamales by Tamales House - Reseda image 1

Small space with a warm family atmosphere and loud music sets a lively tone. Tamales shine as large, fresh, and flavorful, made from scratch with diverse fillings. Prices are higher but portions are generous, making it a solid choice for authentic eats.

Tamales here are large, fresh, and made from scratch with a variety of fillings like pork, chicken mole, and spinach cheese. They stay moist and flavorful, standing out from typical dry tamales.

People are saying

"These tamales are delicious, moist, and full of flavor."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tamales, is simply fantastic and rich in flavor."

"These tamales are the best breakfast I've had in a while."

Good to know

1

Parking is available but can be difficult to find during busy hours.

2

Expect to pay around $27 for six tamales, averaging $4.50 each.

3

The restaurant has limited seating with only six tables available.

28
King Taco image 1
Taco restaurant

Spacious taco spot offers a peaceful atmosphere and friendly staff. Mole tamales deliver exceptional flavor while street tacos and carne asada burritos remain authentic favorites. Ideal for quiet meals with consistent, tasty dishes.

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.

People are saying

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

"I went back just for the green salsa."

"I found the mole tamales exceptionally flavorful."

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.

29
Vallarta Supermarkets image 1

Grocery store shines with a hot foods bar and a self-serve tamale station offering fresh, flavorful tamales. Friendly staff and lively music create a welcoming vibe. Strong Latin American products and a cozy cafeteria make quick meals easy and enjoyable.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the parking here to be ample and accessible."

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.

30
El Huarache Veloz image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mom and pop Mexican spot offers affordable prices and a casual atmosphere with mostly Spanish-speaking staff. Tamales come with grilled meat options but can be hit or miss. Food includes tasty huaraches and chilaquiles, though some dishes vary in quality.

Tamales come with grilled meat options and appear alongside dishes like chilaquiles and chiles rellenos. Some tamales are too soft or disappointing, and orders can sometimes be mixed up with soup instead.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and very good."

"I loved the Mexican food, especially the tamales and huaraches with grilled meat."

"I loved the tamales made with grilled meat."

Good to know

1

Prices at El Huarache Veloz are generally affordable, but some items have increased.

2

The staff primarily speaks Spanish, which may help Spanish-speaking visitors.

3

Expect to pay extra for additional salsa cups.

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