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Mexican food and tamales in Denver

Traditional tamales that honor the craft instead of just filling a plate with masa.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chivis Tacos image 1
Chivis Tacos image 2
Chivis Tacos image 3
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Taco restaurant

Small dining area features self-serve salsa bar and art-covered walls creating an authentic Mexican vibe with a gritty street-food atmosphere. Warm and welcoming energy fills the space, making it feel like home with positive, nostalgic vibes. Late-night hours and a convenient parking lot support a lively, hopping scene.

Moist and fluffy tamales come filled and ready on a plate. They offer a delicious and satisfying bite every time.

Tacos stand out with birria and adobado varieties that many find exceptional. Flautas and chips with salsa also play a key role in the Mexican food experience here.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is authentic and amazing."

"You have to check out the salsa bar; it's a great addition."

"I found the tamales to be fluffy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Chivis Tacos is open late until 3 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.

2

They offer $2 tacos all day on Taco Tuesdays, except for barbacoa and lengua.

3

Barbacoa and lengua tacos cost $4 regardless of the day.

02
Alameda Café image 1
Restaurant

Rustic decor with colorful murals and gothic style creates a warm, cozy atmosphere. High ceilings and an open kitchen add spaciousness, while a full bar serves drinks alongside authentic Mexican dishes. The vibe is inviting and casual, with a focus on flavorful, spicy food and affordable prices.

Tamale breakfast plate offers a big serving size and rich flavor. The tamales come smothered and pair well with huevos rancheros on the tamale platter.

Chilaquiles stand out with bursting flavor and a specialty status here. Breakfast burritos also offer a tasty option for Mexican food lovers.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast here was delicious and great quality."

"I found the chilaquiles to be very tasty and authentic."

"I thought the tamale breakfast plate was delicious."

Good to know

1

The café offers $5.25 handheld burritos to go.

2

Parking at the café can be tight.

3

The café closes at 3 p.m. daily.

03
Carniceria Los Dos Toros image 1

Grocery store offers authentic Mexican meats and a wide variety of fresh produce with reasonable prices. Bakery section features incredible tamales and pastries alongside other traditional foods. Clean, efficient setup allows quick shopping trips.

Tamales here stand out for their rich flavor and tasty red variety. Pastries also pair well, making them a frequent choice for a quick stop.

Tamales and pastries stand out as incredible and highly tasty. The barbacoa and carnitas offer solid traditional flavors. Menudo and carne asada options are also available and well-prepared.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be really good and tasty."

"I found the tamales and pastries to be incredible Mexican food."

Good to know

1

Prices for meat are reasonable and products look fresh.

2

The carniceria offers a wide variety of products.

3

You can find everything needed for a carne asada here.

04
Sarahi's Kitchen image 1
Mexican restaurant

Huge space with a large well-stocked bar and a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like family. Music and upcoming karaoke add to the lively yet comfortable vibe. Known for authentic Mexican dishes and superb margaritas, it offers an inviting experience without a liquor license yet.

Chicken green chile tamales stand out with rich flavor and tender texture. They pair well with roast beef and fresh passion fruit water, making the tamales the highlight of the meal.

Tacos stand out with fresh, flavorful ingredients and a unique Taco Tuesday deal. Pozole and enchiladas come highly praised, alongside fresh salsa and chips that are mild in spice.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really fresh and flavorful."

"I found the tamales to be the best Mexican food I had ever had."

"Sarahi's tamales are made with such amazing skill, you'll want to give her a raise."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $1.50 each, making it a popular deal.

2

Reservations are not required, but call ahead for tamale availability.

3

The restaurant is currently waiting on their liquor license.

05
Los Cuates Mexican Restaurant image 1

Quaint Mexican restaurant with authentic flavors and a tiny, simple dining area featuring lovely murals. Atmosphere is quiet and peaceful, creating a friendly but somewhat subdued vibe. Known for affordable, made-from-scratch breakfast burritos and accommodating larger groups.

Velvety masa filled with juicy chicken and potatoes in a mild red chile stands out. The tamales have a good masa consistency and flavor reminiscent of a Puerto Rican pastelle.

Offers authentic Mexican food with dishes like menudo, el pastor, and steak tacos. Breakfast burritos feature homemade green chili and the salsa is super spicy and flavorful.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing breakfast burritos here."

"These enchiladas with melted cheese were amazing."

"You have to try the breakfast burritos; they're amazing and a great value."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens at 6 am during the week.

2

Expect extra charges for rice, beans, and sauce not listed on the menu.

3

The restaurant accommodates large parties, such as groups of 18.

06
La Pasadita Inn image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, family-run Mexican restaurant feels like sitting in a kitchen with home-cooked food. Cozy, intimate atmosphere with traditional decor and a pleasant outdoor patio. Known for authentic dishes and great margaritas.

Tamales come with green chile and pack a spicy punch. They taste homemade and pair well with a cold beer on the patio.

Chimichangas stand out as a signature dish, often described as the best in the area. Enchiladas receive high praise for flavor, while tamales come with a notable spicy kick.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is authentic and delicious."

"The green chili here is mild, flavorful, and made with love."

"I thought the tamales and green chili were delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the street or in the nearby Safeway parking lot.

2

Expect to pay more than the menu prices for some items.

3

Dogs are not allowed on the patio.

07
Cafecito image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with a Latin aesthetic and colorful, bright interior featuring floor-to-ceiling glass. Spacious and cozy seating options include couches, high tops, and large tables, suited for working or socializing. Atmosphere is clean, comfortable, and lively with good music and free wifi.

Tamales here stand out for their delicious flavors and variety, including pork and cheese options. They pair well with drinks like cafe de olla and cafecito.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and bacon with habanero salsa options. Portions are generous and flavors are solid, paired well with drip coffee. Pork tamales also appear as a tasty choice.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and robust."

"These tamales are incredible and soul-healing."

"You have to try their huge, delicious breakfast burrito."

Good to know

1

Cafecito opens early at 6am, perfect for early risers.

2

Parking is easy to find, but can fill up during busy times.

3

The cafe has many seating options, suitable for groups or solo work.

08
Malinche Audiobar image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant blends Japanese fusion with authentic Mexican atmosphere and vinyl DJ spinning Spanish rock. Intimate space features special sound system and clever soundproofing, creating a warm, nostalgic vibe. Unique mezcal selection and inventive dishes like Tempura de Hoja Santa and chilmole octopus define the experience.

Rabbit tamale stands out with its fig mole that adds a unique sweetness. The dish captures authentic Mexican flavors and leaves a memorable impression.

Rabbit tamale with fig mole captures authentic Mexican flavors. Al pastor tacos and chilaquiles served midday stand out. A taco stand outside offers amazing tacos that complement the indoor menu.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, with unique flavors."

"You have to try the rabbit tamale with fig mole."

"The al pastor tacos here are the best tacos I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with solid drink options.

2

Reservations are recommended due to the small and cozy space.

3

You can order tacos from the taco truck outside to enjoy inside.

09
Tacontento image 1
Restaurant

Tiny restaurant offers authentic Mexican and Guatemalan cuisine in a clean, cozy space with good music and comfortable seating. The vibe is adorable and inviting, attracting diners who appreciate great margaritas and generous portions. Hidden location adds to its hole-in-the-wall charm.

Chicken tamales stand out with amazing flavor. They taste different from traditional Mexican tamales but remain delicious and exceptional.

Tacos shine with birria and quesabirria options, paired with well-seasoned, distinct salsas. Tortas like the Al Pastor and Cubano stand out for their rich flavors and generous portions.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is amazing, especially the tacos."

"The food here is authentic Mexican and Guatemalan."

"I thought the tamales here were delicious and exceptional."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks, making it a great deal.

2

Late happy hour is perfect for after-work gatherings.

3

You can pay your check using the QR code on the receipt.

10
Tortilleria Panderia Abarrotes La Pasadita image 1

Small family-run bakery offers fresh homemade tortillas, variety of traditional breads, and authentic salsas. Atmosphere feels local and welcoming with a focus on quality and affordability. Regulars come for fresh pastries and tamales, making it a hub for casual family gatherings.

Tamales here taste like homemade classics with fresh tortillas and flavorful fillings like rajas and chorizo. They keep tamales refrigerated for freshness and accept WIC cards, showing care for families.

Freshly made flour tortillas stand out for their softness and perfect size, ideal for breakfast burritos. Tamales match homemade quality, with salsas and refried beans also noted for their rich, authentic flavors.

People are saying

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

"These tamales taste as good as my mama's."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tortillas and salsas, is amazing."

Good to know

1

The store offers a variety of fresh flour and corn tortillas.

2

Multiple pastries can be purchased for less than $10.

3

Parking is ample and easily accessible.

11
Tortilleria Las III Americas image 1

Tortilla shop buzzes with steady lines and quick service despite a tiny entrance. Freshly made tortillas stand out as best in town, paired with authentic Mexican staples like menudo and tamales. Prices lean toward the higher side, but quality and daily freshness keep demand high.

Cheese and chili tamales stand out for their flavor. Fire tamales add a spicy twist. Menudo pairs well with tamales here, both surpassing typical restaurant quality.

Fresh, handmade tortillas stand out as the highlight, always warm and tasty. Burritos like the Picadillo Rojo and green pork rind versions offer rich flavors, while tamales and menudo add variety with great taste and authenticity.

People are saying

"I found the tortillas to be fresh and delicious."

"I thought the burritos here were amazing and delicious."

"I thought the burritos here were amazing."

Good to know

1

They make tortillas fresh daily, ensuring they're warm when picked up.

2

A dozen flour tortillas costs $4.75, offering great value.

3

Ordering ahead helps ensure you get exactly what you want.

12
BRAVO CAFFE image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop offers welcoming colorful decor and natural light that creates a cozy warm atmosphere. It stays quiet and relaxing, making it suitable for work or casual chats. The space features ample comfortable seating and plays Spanish music to enhance the vibe.

Tamales smothered with green chili come with rice and beans, making a full meal. Plates cost about four to six dollars and offer spicy, flavorful tamales consistently.

Tamales come with rice and beans and cost about four dollars per plate. Breakfast burritos, empanadas, and tamales run around five dollars and stay consistently good. The horchata latte is delicious and can be customized with different types of milk.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and great."

"I loved the creamy, cinnamon-spiced horchata latte."

"The horchata latte is creamy, sweet, and delicious."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking available at BRAVO CAFFE.

2

BRAVO CAFFE serves coffee, pastries, burritos, empanadas, and tamales.

3

The café does not have outdoor seating.

13
Tamales By La Casita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with authentic New Mexican atmosphere and family-oriented vibe. Seating is limited but includes outdoor options along a bike path. Known for best tamales in town, it draws steady lines and a lively crowd.

Tamales by the dozen come in red and green varieties with a quart of chile verde. These tamales stay perfect to go and have a reputation as the best in Denver and even the entire world.

Tamales come in red and green varieties and stay perfect to go. Smothered breakfast burritos also stand out as a popular choice.

People are saying

"Their green chili is not too spicy and very yummy."

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

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand, especially during lunch hours.

2

Parking is available but can be crowded during lunchtime.

3

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

14
Tonantzin Casa de Café image 1

Colorful café doubles as an art gallery with local artwork displayed throughout and a secluded patio that feels like a private courtyard. Atmosphere blends creative energy with relaxing vibes, attracting people who enjoy both art and quiet spaces. Indoor and outdoor seating accommodate a mix of casual visitors and those working or socializing.

Weekend tamales offer pork and cheese varieties with a distinct Latin American flair. The red pork tamale stands out as a popular choice, paired well with specialty drinks.

Menu highlights include red pork tamales and a breakfast burrito with bacon, eggs, potatoes, cheese, and green chili. Drinks feature house-made horchata lattes that are rich and not too sweet.

People are saying

"I loved the authentic Mexican coffee drinks with fun twists."

"I found the weekend tamales here to die for."

"The tamales here are delicious, especially on weekends."

Good to know

1

Tamales are only available on weekends.

2

The entryway is ADA compliant for easy access.

3

The cafe has both indoor and outdoor seating areas.

15
Tortilleria Cuauhtemoc image 1

Fresh corn and flour tortillas stand out for their rich, home-style flavor and warmth. The bakery offers day-old tortillas at reduced prices, which stay soft for days. Communication happens mostly in Spanish, creating an authentic atmosphere.

Epic tamales stand out here with rich flavors and satisfying texture. They deliver a solid, authentic taste that defines the tamale experience.

Fresh corn tortillas stand out for their taste and quality. The tamales also receive strong praise. A friendly atmosphere adds to the experience.

People are saying

"I thought the corn tortillas were the best I had ever tasted."

"The Mexican food here has the best, freshest tortillas."

"The tamales here have really fresh tortillas."

Good to know

1

Day-old tortillas are available for less than half price.

2

Tortillas stay fresh for days without getting hard.

3

Expect a language barrier as staff may not speak English.

16
Pochitos Tortilla Factory image 1

Tamale shop with counter service and occasional views of tortilla production offers heritage corn and flour tortillas alongside large, homemade tamales. Atmosphere feels charming and inviting, with a focus on quality that justifies higher prices. Street parking is limited, and a nearby park provides a spot for picnics.

Huge tamales stuffed with lots of meat stand out here. The tamales are delicious and filling, often paired with cheese enchiladas or chili for a complete meal.

Tamales stand out with their huge size and meat stuffing, offered in three varieties. Fresh corn and flour tortillas complement the tamales, alongside great salsas and pico de gallo.

People are saying

"I thought the handmade flour tortillas were the best I ever had."

"I thought their tamales were some of the best."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tamales, is the best I've had."

Good to know

1

The price for a dozen tamales is $26 in-store, despite online listings of $17.

2

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking if busy.

3

The restaurant operates on a counter service model for takeout.

17
El Nopalito Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant offers authentic home-style meals with a relaxed and welcoming vibe. Frequented for affordable, large portions and notable breakfast burritos, it sits tucked in a busy strip mall with a bustling neighborhood atmosphere.

Pork green chile tamales stand out with a rich, smothered style not listed on the menu. Meaty tamales offer a hearty option alongside other Mexican dishes.

Breakfast burritos stand out with chorizo and carnitas flavors paired with refried beans that taste unique. Tamales, pozole, and menudo offer authentic, well-priced options reflecting classic Mexican dishes.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast burritos here to be ridiculously good."

"Their breakfast burritos are ridiculously good and well sized."

"I loved the pork green chile tamales; they were fire."

Good to know

1

Items are reasonably priced, offering good portion sizes.

2

Parking can be tight due to the busy strip mall location.

3

Breakfast burritos are available at a reasonable price.

18
Los Robles Mexican Food image 1

Small, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a rustic vibe next to a gas station. Atmosphere feels cozy and friendly with a cheerful mood for dining in. Known for authentic Mexican food and generous portions.

Tamales feature tender masa and chicken with a perfectly spicy green chili. They come with fresh pico de gallo and lettuce, adding brightness to the dish.

Breakfast burritos stand out with rich flavors and a generous filling. Tacos like Asada, Carnitas, and shredded beef come with fresh pico de gallo that enhances each bite.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is really flavorful with amazing salsas."

"The birria tacos with consommé were so flavorful and delicious."

"The tamales here are tender with spicy, flavorful green chili."

Good to know

1

The restaurant opens early at 6:00am for breakfast options.

2

Parking is available across the street or at the connected gas station.

3

Carry-out options are available for those staying at nearby hotels.

19
La Popular Food Company image 1

Cozy mom-and-pop tamale shop with authentic Mexican flavors and award-winning breakfast burritos. The atmosphere includes great music and a small bakery offering classic baked goods. Customers appreciate the handmade tamales and tortillas, with a steady flow of locals valuing quality and tradition.

Handmade tamales feature great masa and fillings that taste like traditional family recipes. They are made from scratch and hand wrapped, offering a consistently delicious, authentic flavor.

Handmade tamales stand out for their authentic taste and scratch-made quality. The smothered beef and green chili burrito offers a rich, satisfying flavor that many find unforgettable.

People are saying

"I traveled 400 miles for these delicious tamales."

"The green chili in their burritos is divine and transcendent."

"The Mexican food here, especially the tamales, is always good."

Good to know

1

They offer to-go salsa, tortillas, tortilla shells, and chips.

2

Tamales are made from scratch, enhancing their flavor.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

20
Santiago's Mexican Restaurant image 1

Small Mexican restaurant offers authentic breakfast burritos and hot green chili with affordable prices under $4. Atmosphere feels like a family store with clean, cozy space and hanging plants. Takeout-only setup gets busy during peak hours, with patio seating available but no delivery.

Smothered tamales come as a filling plate option. Each tamale costs $3.00 and pairs well with guacamole and tostadas.

Breakfast burritos with pork and green chili stand out for being quick and delicious. Barbacoa tacos and burritos smothered in hot green chili with added chicharrónes also feature prominently.

People are saying

"I thought the breakfast burritos were always so good."

"These breakfast burritos are incredible and always the same."

"I loved their smothered tamales plate."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers takeout only; no dine-in options available.

2

Expect long wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider arriving early.

21
El Chalate Restaurant image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Salvadoran restaurant offers authentic dishes with affordable prices and large portions. The space is well lit and clean, creating a peaceful and welcoming atmosphere. Pupusas stand out as a signature item, praised for their flavor and size.

Corn tamales taste simple but very good with flavorful beans and perfectly cooked plantains. Combo plates often include a tamale paired with beans and rice or other items.

A working person's spot with burritos, tacos, and enchiladas featuring rich cheese. The steak burrito stands out, and combo plates mix chile relleno, beef burrito, and cheese enchilada.

People are saying

"The pupusas here taste like home, just like I remember from El Salvador."

"The Mexican food here is delicious and a great value."

"The tamales here are huge and very tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers authentic Salvadoran dishes at reasonable prices.

2

Expect to pay around $9 for a filling meal.

3

The restaurant has a reputation for cleanliness issues.

22
El Taco De Mexico image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a diner vibe and authentic old school feel offers simple booth seating and a nice outdoor patio. Atmosphere is lively and welcoming, filled with joy and laughter from the kitchen. It feels like a neighborhood institution known for its genuine Mexican experience.

Green chicken tamale smothered in sauce stands out with rich flavor. The menu offers massive variety including tamales paired with carnitas tacos or chicken enchiladas.

Smothered burritos with green chili and chorizo stand out as a signature dish. Chile relleno burrito and tongue tacos offer authentic, flavorful Mexican food that has earned a James Beard award.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food here set my standard for Colorado Mex."

"I thought the Mexican food here was delicious and authentic."

"I loved the green chicken tamale smothered in sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; order at the counter upon arrival.

2

Expect a wait time of 30 minutes during peak lunch hours.

3

Parking is limited; consider arriving early to find a spot.

23
Camargo Tamales Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with a small, unassuming space tucked behind a liquor store. Atmosphere feels local and authentic, mainly serving take-out with homemade tortillas and classic tamales that draw a loyal crowd. The vibe is straightforward and unpretentious, focusing on traditional flavors rather than trendy or upscale dining.

Tamales here get a lot of love for their pork and red Chile versions. Texture varies, with some tamales being hard or overly soft, but many find them outstanding and a local favorite.

Massive burritos packed with shredded beef, fajitas, and smothered beans stand out here. Fresh, homemade tortillas and tamales add to the authentic Mexican food experience.

People are saying

"I found the Camargo's special burritos delicious and amazing."

"You have to try the smothered bean burrito; it's just like I remembered."

"I thought the tamales here were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Prices for items like a beef burrito can reach $14.75 after tax.

2

Everything is made in-house, ensuring freshness.

3

Camargo's is primarily a take-out joint.

24
Que Bueno! Mexican Grille image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small airport restaurant offers a fun atmosphere with great music and multiple sports TVs. It feels lively and busy but also welcoming, with a vacation mood and friendly energy. The space is compact, creating a cozy yet bustling environment.

Pork tamales come with a green sauce that adds a nice kick. Plates include beans and rice, and the tamales offer a good spicy flavor with decent quality.

Tacos and breakfast burritos stand out with fresh flavors. Guacamole and nachos come with fresh salsa and add a tasty touch. Breakfast quesadilla with chorizo arrives quickly with verde sauce.

People are saying

"Jenny and Lizbeth at the bar will take care of you."

"The Mexican food service here is so quick and friendly."

"I found the tamales to be excellent and tasty."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a full menu during breakfast hours.

2

Expect reasonable prices for airport dining, with meals averaging around $19.

3

Vegetables may incur an extra charge on your order.

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