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Guide to San Diego

Tamales

Made for those who track down authentic tamales with the dedication of a culinary historian.

Based on 444 Opinions
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01
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Bright, inviting dรฉcor creates an authentic Peruvian vibe. Family-friendly with a kids' play corner keeps kids happy. Pork tamales deliver fresh, tasty flavors that satisfy. Spacious layout suits groups seeking a relaxed meal.

Peruvian tamales stand out with fresh, tasty flavors. Pork tamales offer a rich, satisfying taste that pairs well with other dishes like pork loin sandwiches.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be the best I ever tasted."

Good to know

1

They offer free coffee until 10:30.

2

The kids corner makes it special for families with children.

3

Parking is easy and the location is convenient.

02
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Small spot with a friendly atmosphere and welcoming vibe. Tamales boast moist masa and generous fillings that taste fresh and savory. Cash-only keeps it simple and straightforward.

Tamales here have moist masa that melts in your mouth and a savory filling balanced perfectly. Each tamale tastes fresh and feels made to perfection.

People are saying

"These tamales have the most flavorful masa and savory filling."

Good to know

1

They only accept cash.

03
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Bright, modern donut shop offers a cozy, warm atmosphere perfect for quiet moments. Unique, delicious donuts pair well with perfect 10 tamales known for exceptional taste. Limited seating and early sell-outs add urgency to early visits.

Tamales here stand out for their exceptional taste and are often rated a perfect 10 out of 10. They set a high standard for flavor and quality among similar dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the tamales here were out of this world."

Good to know

1

They're sold out of their top flavors by 10am.

2

Visiting early provides the best selection of Donas.

3

You can't expect to have a full selection of donuts after lunchtime.

04
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Fresh masa makes tamales stand out with rich Oaxacan flavors like mole and cheese. Homemade birria and fresh tortillas have a strong local reputation. Atmosphere feels unclean and outdated, with some expired products and mixed pricing.

Fresh masa stands out for making tamales. Oaxacan tamales with mole and cheese offer rich flavors.

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially during peak hours with over 20 people in line.

2

Prices for tortillas and produce are generally good compared to other local stores.

3

Cleanliness could be improved, as there are concerns about mold on tortillas.

05
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Sizable dining room creates cozy family vibes with an authentic Salvadoran feel. Corn tamales offer a moist texture and homestyle flavor, while chicken tamales are well-seasoned. Known for best pupusas, the place stays lively yet comfortable for conversation.

Corn tamales have a moist texture and a homestyle flavor. Chicken tamales are also well-seasoned and enjoyable.

People are saying

"I loved the chicharron pupusas, they were so good."

Good to know

1

Parking can be very difficult, especially on weekends after church.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times.

3

The restaurant is known for its cleanliness and calm atmosphere.

06
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Mexican grocery store offers fresh tamales with kind service at the tamales station. Enjoy vibrant atmosphere with balanced music and airy layout. Find fresh tortillas and salsas alongside a full selection of produce and prepared foods.

Fresh tamales come with excellent service from kind staff at the tamales station. Prepared meals include tamales de pollo, tortillas, salsas, and guacamole, all made fresh and ready to take home.

People are saying

"The tamales here are delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, and Mexican groceries.

2

Daily specials provide great deals on selected items throughout the week.

3

The hot food section features a large selection of ready-to-eat meals.

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Mexican bakery shines with fresh Conchitas and a wide sweet bread selection. Tamales are greasy and less rich, scoring 4 out of 10, but pair well with pollo de salsa verde. Atmosphere highlights traditional flavors despite some pricey items.

Tamales here have a greasy texture and score low on richness, rated 4 out of 10. Some find them delicious and recommend pairing with pollo de salsa verde for lunch.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be the best in San Diego."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers a wide variety of Mexican sweet bread.

2

Prices for bread range from $1 to $3 each.

3

Popular items include conchas and empanadas.

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Super fancy dining room with Instagramable decor and a lively vibe hosts energetic crowds enjoying sweet corn tamales with soft texture. Fast-paced social spot offers standout cocktails at a full bar, all within a strict 90-minute table limit.

Sweet corn tamales stand out with their super soft texture and natural sweetness. They appear on sampler plates alongside chilaquiles and machaca, making them a notable part of the meal.

People are saying

"The sweet corn tamales here are so soft and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

Expect to wait 1 to 2 hours for a table on weekends without a reservation.

3

The atmosphere can be loud due to frequent birthday celebrations.

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