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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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01
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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

"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
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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."

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.

03
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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

"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.

04
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Grocery store shines with fresh masa and handmade tortillas. Butcher shop offers flavorful carnitas and chicharrones. Tamales feature quality dough and authentic taste, with ingredients available for home cooking.

Tamale dough stands out with its quality and texture. The spot also stocks ingredients for making tamales and offers tamales alongside other items.

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.

05
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Juice shop serves massive tamales in flavors like pork and elote, perfect with small aguas frescas such as Agua Jamaica. Enjoy fresh fruit cocktails and homemade ice cream in a casual spot. Prices stay low, making it great for quick, flavorful Mexican snacks.

Massive tamales come in a variety of flavors like pork and elote. They cost around $3 and pair well with small aguas frescas like Agua Jamaica.

People are saying

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

Good to know

1

They offer a variety of snacks, tamales, fruit cocktails, and ice cream.

2

Homemade ice cream and fresh juices are available.

3

Prices are very affordable, with tamales and small aguas frescas at $3 each.

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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

"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
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Hole-in-the-wall spot serves authentic southern Mexican food with rich mole tamales and creamy cheese tamales. Quiet, organized vibe with real plates and tablecloths adds charm. Prices can feel high for portions but breakfast burritos are unique and tasty.

Mole tamales stand out with rich, deep flavors. Cheese tamales offer a creamy, satisfying bite. Both types are consistently great.

Good to know

1

Parking is available for free around the back of the restaurant.

2

Expect to pay around $41 for two burritos, which may feel overpriced.

3

The restroom has a door that wonโ€™t shut, making it inconvenient.

08
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Outdoor seating with bar seating creates a lively, retro vibe. Known for 24-hour service and iconic chili cheese burgers, it offers a cozy, historic atmosphere. Cheese tamales taste heavenly and pair well with chili fries and dogs.

Cheese tamale pairs well with chili fries and chili dogs. The tamales have a heavenly taste that appeals to many.

People are saying

"I found the chili-covered tamale to be heavenly."

Good to know

1

Tomorrow, 3/11, is the last day for the $2.99 burger specials.

2

Original Tommy's is open 24 hours for takeout only.

3

If there's no parking in the little lot, you can park across the street at their overflow lot.

09
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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."

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.

10
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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

"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.

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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

"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.

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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."

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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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."

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.

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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-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.

15
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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."

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.

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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

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

Good to know

1

Cash only, so come prepared.

2

Tamales cost $3.00 each.

3

The place is only available for takeout.

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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 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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Mexican grocery store offers freshly made tortillas and authentic ingredients in a cozy, slightly messy space. Tamales come fresh and hot with flavors like mole and pineapple, paired with sides like Spanish rice and guacamole. Atmosphere feels homey and natural.

Fresh and hot tamales come in a variety of types like mole, pineapple, and pork. They pair well with sides like Spanish rice, plantains, and guacamole, and are often served with beef broth or birria.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be the best, always fresh and hot."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide selection of authentic Mexican ingredients and Latin products.

2

Expect short lines during peak hours, making shopping quick and easy.

3

Parking is spacious but can fill up quickly during busy times.

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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

"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.

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

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.

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Tight, old-school deli buzzes with loud mariachi music and women slapping tortillas in sync. Handmade tamales shine with authentic masa and dried chilies. Outdoor community tables offer casual seating amid a nostalgic Mexican vibe.

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.

People are saying

"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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Small grocery store buzzes with freshly made tortillas and excellent masa perfect for tamales. Meat selection is strong and fresh. Crowded early with quick-selling sweet bread and biscuits, but limited parking adds to the busy vibe.

Masa for tamales stands out for its excellent quality and great flavor. Freshly made tamale dough and tortillas from pure fresh corn are available and consistently good.

People are saying

"The masa for the tamales is excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking can get full during festive weekends.

2

Get there early; sweet bread and biscuits sell out quickly.

3

Place your order a day in advance for guaranteed availability.

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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."

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
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Bakery shines with authentic Mexican bread that is buttery and fluffy. Tamales offer intense flavor with a perfect stuffing to masa balance, though pork tamales lean heavier on masa. Welcoming vibe pairs well with traditional flavors and breakfast staples like horchata.

Good to know

1

The bread is made daily, ensuring freshness.

2

Horchata is available alongside a variety of Mexican bread.

3

Expect a wide selection of breakfast options.

25
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Small Salvadoran spot shines with fresh pupusas and soft tamales in a cozy bakery vibe. Vegan options add variety, while banana bread sells out fast. Friendly, family feel makes it a local favorite with reasonable prices.

Good to know

1

Most breads and pastries sell out early, so arrive early for the best selection.

2

Parking can be difficult, but free residential parking is available nearby.

3

Expect a 20-25 minute wait for food after ordering.

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Small Mexican spot shines with chicken and cheese tamales served in combos with taquitos, rice, and beans. Cozy, historic vibe fills the crammed space, while staff in white shirts add to the nostalgic atmosphere. Bustling market setting keeps energy lively and intimate.

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.

People are saying

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

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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Cozy spot with a mom and pop vibe offers a welcoming space for family and friends. Tamales shine with varied styles like carnitas and green corn, plus fried options for texture. Outdoor patio with twinkle lights adds charm while festive music keeps energy relaxed.

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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Tamales come in several varieties like chicken with green sauce and cheese jalapeรฑo. Quality is mixed, with some tamales dry or bland. Prices are moderate at $3 each, and the menu focuses on traditional Mexican flavors with a simple setup.

Chicken tamales with green sauce and cheese jalapeรฑo tamales stand out. Quality has dropped, with tamales often dry and lacking flavor, sometimes missing cheese or using canned chicken. Each tamale costs $3.

People are saying

"I found the chicken tamales with green sauce delicious."

Good to know

1

Tamales cost $3 each, which may be considered pricey by some.

2

Expect a casual atmosphere, suitable for families and friends.

3

Takeout options are available for those who prefer to eat elsewhere.

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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

"I found the pork and chicken tamales delicious."

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.

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Latin American spot offers authentic tamales with rich, moist fillings like green chicken and pork. Small dining space fills quickly but atmosphere stays enjoyable. Neighborhood vibe adds charm to this high-demand eatery.

Tamales come packed with rich fillings and stay moist, never dry. Varieties like green chicken, pork, and corn tamales stand out for their authentic taste and satisfying size.

People are saying

"These tamales are delicious and packed with filling."

Good to know

1

Rosy's Tamales' tamales run out quickly due to high demand.

2

The price of one tamale is comparable to a cheeseburger animal style.

3

They might not have all varieties all the time, especially around holidays.

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