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Tamales and bread in Illinois

Made for those who refuse to choose between a traditional masa-based meal and a fresh loaf of crusty bread.

Based on 715 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Guatelinda Bakery image 1
Guatelinda Bakery image 2
Guatelinda Bakery image 3
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Small bakery and restaurant offers authentic Guatemalan pastries and traditional tamales with affordable prices. Atmosphere feels friendly and casual, attracting those seeking genuine flavors and textures. Selection is limited but focuses on quality and authenticity.

Offers authentic Guatemalan tamales including paches and pork tamales with rich flavor and texture. Tamales come alongside other traditional dishes like chuchitos and sweet breads.

Guatemalan sweet breads like the gusanito stand out for their authentic taste and good price. Other breads and pastries evoke a sense of childhood and pair well with traditional dishes like tamales and paches.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be amazing."

"I found the authentic Guatemalan bread here to be very good."

"I found the Guatemalan-style pastries here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

The bakery offers traditional Guatemalan baked goods and pastries.

2

Prices are affordable, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

It is located near the blue train station for easy access.

02
Gualtemalteca Bakery image 1

Small bakery offers authentic Guatemalan flavors with a wide variety of traditional dishes and baked goods. Atmosphere feels calm and pleasant, evoking a sense of being in Guatemala with a friendly and happy vibe. Prices tend to be high compared to typical local spots.

Homemade tamales showcase a style from Huehuetenango with a tasty introduction to bean tamales. The tamales are consistently delicious and stand out among other options in the area.

Fresh bread features a super rich flavor made with authentic Guatemalan ingredients. Samples often include freshly baked bread alongside traditional drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious, it reminds me of home."

"I thought the tamales here were amazing."

"This bread tastes like authentic Guatemalan food."

Good to know

1

Parking is available near the bakery.

2

The bakery offers a wide variety of authentic Guatemalan dishes and baked goods.

3

Prices for items can be higher than average, especially for coffee.

03
Mi Tierrita Colombia image 1

Small bakery with Colombian decor and no seating, focused on takeout. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, evoking a strong sense of Colombia. Known for authentic empanadas and pastries with distinctive flavors not common in the area.

Moist tamales filled with plenty of tender meat stand out here. They taste sabrosos and come alongside other delicious baked goods like empanadas and pandebonos.

Fresh Colombian bread offers authentic flavor with a warm aroma. Items like pandebono and ham bread stand out for their delicious taste and texture.

People are saying

"This bakery feels like a true slice of Colombia."

"I found the Colombian bread to be delicious and authentic."

"I loved the tamales; they were moist and filled with tender meat."

Good to know

1

Mi Tierrita Colombia is the first authentic Colombian bakery in the Chicago area.

2

The bakery specializes in Colombian bread, coffee, and desserts.

3

The space for eating inside is limited with few tables available.

04
Panaderia Don Lupe image 1

Family-owned bakery offers authentic Mexican pan dulce with fresh, soft bread and flavorful tamales. Friendly vibe fills a clean space where pastries are arranged appealingly. Prices are reasonable though receipts lack itemized details.

Tamales come with flavorful chicken and salsa inside. They are fresh and delicious, though some are sold raw.

Freshness stands out with fresh variations of bread available early in the day. The Mexican bread is consistently delicious and exquisite, earning praise for its quality and taste.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the tamales; they're so delicious and fresh."

"I found the tamales to be super delicious and fresh."

Good to know

1

The bakery is family owned, adding a personal touch to your visit.

2

The bakery maintains a clean environment for customers.

3

Prices are generally considered great for the quality offered.

05
Bakery El Dorado image 1

Small bakery offers Mexican bread arranged by the counter with pastries and desserts nearby. Soft, sweet conchas and freshly baked jalapeño bread stand out among the goods. A good-sized parking lot supports easy access.

Tamales come in rajas and red pork varieties with a delicious flavor. A dozen costs about $24, which is higher than past prices.

Jalapeño bread stands out as freshly baked and flavorful. Mexican bread includes options like chocolate bread priced around a dollar. Some bread items can be stale or expired, so freshness varies.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tamales, is awesome."

"I found the bread here to be delicious."

"I found the tamales to be awesome."

Good to know

1

There is a good-sized parking lot available for customers.

2

The bakery accepts credit cards and mobile payments.

3

Expect a variety of traditional Mexican pastries and bread.

06
La Fina Bakery LLC image 1

Small bakery offers delicious cakes, tamales, and cheese-filled bread with a clean and inviting atmosphere. Prices tend to be on the higher side but reflect the quality of the products. Customers appreciate the excellent bakery work and variety including bagels and unique items like Atomic Cake.

Tamales here have a rich flavor and come with fresh masa that stands out. Some find them delicious and well-priced, while others think they are overpriced.

Delicious bread stands out with a rich taste that complements the variety of cakes available. The red bread is especially notable for its flavor.

People are saying

"I found the cake here to be delicious and beautiful."

"I loved the tamales; they were so delicious."

"I found the bread to be delicious."

Good to know

1

The Easter Day Fun event features free cupcakes, strawberries, and pictures with the Bunny.

2

Raffle and tacos are included in the Easter Day Fun event.

3

Prices are considered high by some, but many find them fair for the quality.

07
La Luz Bakery image 1

Mexican-style bakery offers versatile selection of fresh, sweet bread and traditional Hispanic foods. Atmosphere carries amazing smells and good vibes with massive cakes that serve large groups. Early arrival is needed for popular items like tamales, which are highly regarded in the area.

Tamales come with a little spicy kick and a delicious flavor. They stand out as a top choice in the area.

Fresh and delicious Mexican-style bread stands out here, with a wide variety of sweet options. Bread stuffed with cheese is a notable choice, and overall the bread quality is consistently very good.

People are saying

"The tamales here are the best Mexican food I've ever had."

"I thought their tres leches cake was the best."

"I thought the tamales here were the best."

Good to know

1

Tamales sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

La Luz Bakery has two locations: one in Round Lake and another in Mundelein.

3

Prices for cakes range from $35 to $40, justified by their size and quality.

08
La Central image 1

Panaderia offers fresh, soft bread and well-priced pastries in a clean, modern setting. The atmosphere is consistent and inviting, with Mexican bread specialties like conchas and tamales standing out.

Green tamales stand out with their strong flavor. Some tamales come with incomplete filling and masa falling apart, yet they still hold a solid reputation.

Freshness stands out with bread often warm and straight from the oven. The texture is soft and melts in your mouth, especially with cheese and chili rolls and other Mexican bread varieties.

People are saying

"The bread here is always so fresh and soft."

"The pastries here are so delicious and sweet."

"I found the tamales here to be great."

Good to know

1

The pastries and cakes are very well priced.

2

They charge $3.00 for incomplete tamales with masa falling apart.

3

The bakery is always clean and modern.

09
Los Morales Bakery image 1

Small bakery offers authentic Hispanic pastries and a great selection of Mexican sweet bread. Cozy atmosphere invites visitors to grab a tray and choose from fresh, affordable baked goods. Family-owned spot features weekly new pastries and morning-only tamales, creating a unique, lively experience.

Tamales come fresh only in the morning and feature a simple masa-only filling. They cost about thirty dollars per dozen and stand out as a morning specialty alongside tacos and baked goods.

Fresh, warm bread stands out with Mexican sweet bread and Colombian bread offering great flavor. A wide selection of delicious pastries and baked goods complements the fresh bread.

People are saying

"This Mexican bakery has such fresh, authentic pastries."

"The bread here is so fresh and delicious."

"I found the tamales here to be sooo delicious."

Good to know

1

They sell tamales on weekends, but only in the morning.

2

Tortas and cemitas are available every day.

3

Expect a great selection of affordable pastries.

10
Johnnie's Beef image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with no-frills, cash-only setup and a busy, efficient kitchen creates an old-school vibe. Seating is primarily outdoor picnic tables packed closely together, leading to a crowded atmosphere. Lines form early, reflecting steady demand and a strict ordering process at a single cashier.

Tamales stand out with a unique taste that differs from others. They come with beef store style and giardiniera, offering a solid and affordable option.

Bread has a perfect crust on the outside and stays soft inside. It soaks up all the beef flavor without falling apart, making each bite rich and tender.

People are saying

"This beef sandwich is the best I ever had."

"The bread here is perfectly seasoned and holds up when dipped."

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

Good to know

1

Johnnie's Beef is cash only; no credit cards accepted.

2

The restaurant has outdoor seating only.

3

They open at 11am and often have long lines.

11
Yeli's Bakery image 1

Large, clean bakery with an old exterior and loud music inside. Offers authentic Mexican pastries with a wide variety of fresh, delicious bread and sweets. Atmosphere feels cute and lively, attracting those seeking traditional flavors.

Tamales here are consistently delicious and often paired with great bread. They sometimes lose freshness later in the day but generally stand out among other baked goods.

Bread here tastes like real Mexican bread from Mexico, with freshness and delicious flavor that stands out. The bread of the dead and other pastries capture authentic Mexican baking well.

People are saying

"The Mexican bread here is fresh and tastes like the real thing from Mexico."

"I can't imagine getting tamales anywhere else now."

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

Good to know

1

The bread is made the same day, ensuring freshness.

2

They offer a variety of authentic Mexican pastries.

3

Ordering a cake requires going in person; phone information is limited.

12
El Chicanito Bakery image 1

Bakery offers authentic tamales and fresh Mexican pastries with a wonderful selection of cakes and breads. Atmosphere is casual and clean, with English spoken for convenience. Prices are affordable, making it a popular spot for quality baked goods.

Tamales come moist and full of distinct flavor with options like cheese and pepper, pork in red sauce, and spicy chicken in tomatillo sauce. They taste fresh and authentic, consistently delicious across types.

Bread varies here from soft and tasty to hard and dry. Fresh Mexican pastries and budding bread stand out, but some items like banana bread taste artificial and lack color.

People are saying

"I thought the Mexican food, especially the tamales, was delicious and moist."

"I found the bread here to be soft and tasty."

"I thought the tamales were delicious and moist."

Good to know

1

Authentic tamales are available at the bakery.

2

The bakery has a wonderful selection of freshly baked items.

3

Prices for baked goods are generally affordable, with five bread rolls costing $9.

13
Aracely's Bakery image 1

Small customer area buzzes with activity and fresh Mexican bread and authentic tamales. Loud, casual atmosphere with busy service and a focus on traditional snacks. Offers variety of baked goods including empanadas, tortas, and pastries, some priced higher but made fresh daily.

Tamales come enormous, warm, and fresh with flavors like chicken, pig, and rajas with queso. They stay moist and flavorful without being dry, often praised as some of the best green tamales around.

Soft, fresh Mexican bread stands out here, especially the Conchas available with and without canela. A large variety of sweet breads complements the offerings.

People are saying

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

"I loved the cinnamon coffee and the big, delicious tamales."

"I found the bread here to be so soft and delicious."

Good to know

1

Prices for a medium Rosca are $35, with a smaller size available.

2

They accept card payments and various other payment methods.

3

The bakery offers a variety of traditional Mexican snacks and baked goods.

14
Azteca Bakery image 1

Bakery offers fresh breads and custom theme cakes with reasonable prices and free delivery. Atmosphere is busy, especially on Saturday afternoons, with limited English spoken. Quality varies, with excellent pastries but some decline noted in cakes and ice cream.

Tamales come fiery and delicious here, showing clear care in their preparation. Availability is limited to winter, which restricts access throughout the year.

Bread comes out fresh and warm daily with a great selection of sweet bread. The bread has a rich flavor and includes options like bread pudding.

People are saying

"They did an awesome job decorating the cake perfectly."

"I loved the pistachio ice cream with plenty of pistachio bits."

"The bread here is always fresh and warm."

Good to know

1

Azteca Bakery offers pre-orders for custom theme cakes.

2

There's no bathroom available, so plan accordingly.

3

I recommend doing in-person orders instead of over the phone.

15
Estrella Bakery image 1

Mexican bakery offers fresh Mexican-style bread with big, fluffy conchas and a wide pan dulce selection. Atmosphere feels homey and clean, with a heavenly smell inside. Pricing varies, and parking is ample.

Tamales are ready at 5 am, so getting there early is key. They used to be very good but have declined lately, though some still find them good.

Fresh baked bread stands out with Mexican-style flavors and a great variety of sweet bread. Staff pack bread in a big box to keep it fresh and protected.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be delicious and very well-made."

"I enjoyed starting my day with a quick cup of coffee here."

"You need to get here early because the tamales sell out fast."

Good to know

1

The tamales are ready at 5 am, so arrive early for the best selection.

2

Expect to pay around $2.25 per loaf of bread.

3

There is plenty of parking available near the bakery.

16
Panaderia Coral image 1

Small bakery offers soft Mexican bread and authentic tamales with a delicious fresh flavor. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to other bakeries. Space is limited, creating a cozy but compact atmosphere.

Tamales come in red and green varieties, but orders may not match requests exactly. Some tamales have a raw, undercooked masa and can be dry, leading to poor quality and waste.

Fresh bread comes with cheese and jalapeño in the rolls, offering a spicy kick. The bread is soft and carries a taste reminiscent of Mexican sweet bread.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be delicious and super soft."

"The bakery's bread rolls are delicious and filled with cheese."

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

Good to know

1

They charge for debit card use without prior notice.

2

The price of the rosca has increased this year.

3

Two bread rolls cost $5.47, which is on the pricier side.

17
La Esperanza Bakery image 1

Small bakery with an authentic Mexican atmosphere and a homey, warm feel. Offers a big selection of baked goods including fresh, delicious bread and traditional pastries. Prices are reasonable and the place feels welcoming.

Tamales wrapped in banana leaf stand out with a verde style that many find delicious. Weekend tamales come with a variety of baked goods and sweets, though some tamales can be a bit dry.

Bread here has a fresh and warm quality with a taste that recalls Mexico. The sweet bread balances sugar well without being overpowering, offering a delicious and tasty experience daily.

People are saying

"These pastries are soft, fluffy, and not too sweet."

"The bread here is amazing, warm, and delicious."

"I found the tamales on the weekend to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Bring cash to save money, as some vendors may not accept cards.

2

The bakery offers a wide selection of baked goods, including gelatins and tamales.

3

Expect a small space with a limited selection of items.

18
Mariscos San Pedro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, seaside-style interior with thoughtful decor creates a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Loud Mexican and Latin music fills the space, making conversation challenging amid the busy service environment. Tables often sit close to kitchen activity, adding to the lively, energetic vibe.

Duck tamale comes with mole sauce and is served alongside rice and beans. Mole flavor is rich but can overpower the tamale itself.

Fresh toasty bread comes with dishes and works well for dipping in rich sauces. Corn bread stands out as a substantial option, while whole loaves served cold can be too hard to eat.

People are saying

"The seafood here, especially the dorade and tostadas, is creative and delicious."

"The duck tamale in mole was rich in flavor."

"The cornbread was the most substantial and great item."

Good to know

1

Monday night deals offer great value for diners.

2

Expect delays if events start later than scheduled.

3

Reservations are recommended for busy nights to avoid long waits.

19
Lupita's Joliet Bakery, Inc image 1

Sweet aroma of pan dulce fills the air, signaling authentic Mexican pastries and bread. Shelves often run low due to high demand, encouraging early visits. Known for fresh bread and traditional cakes, the bakery offers a focused selection that reflects its specialty.

Tamales cost about $3.00 and are claimed to be fresh and made daily. Some tamales are dry and tasteless, with masa that is not cooked properly.

Bread comes out freshly made every day, always soft and fresh. The bakery offers authentic Mexican pastries and bread that taste delicious.

People are saying

"The bread here is always so soft and fresh."

"The bakery's bread and pastries are so fresh, they take you back to childhood."

"I thought the tamales here were great."

Good to know

1

The bakery specializes in authentic Mexican pastries and bread.

2

Arrive early to ensure a good selection, as items run out fast.

3

Tamales are available for about $3.00 each.

20
Pan y Pizza Pa' Ya- Irving Park image 1

Bakery offers authentic Colombian cuisine with heavenly baked goods like pandebono and almojábanas. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming with pleasant music enhancing comfort. Regulars enjoy traditional flavors and a cozy environment that feels like home.

Tamales feature a mix of rice and corn dough with meat inside. Some versions are very salty and lack traditional elements like bacon, differing from Colombian styles.

Fresh bread comes out soft and delicious with a Colombian style that stands out. Cheese bread is a popular choice to take home, and the snacks like fritters pair well with the bread.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The bread here is delicious and so fresh."

"The tamales here have delicious flavor and good meat."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back of the restaurant.

2

Pizza slices are available after 11AM.

3

All menu items are reasonably priced.

21
Rubí's Bakery image 1

Bakery offers a wide selection of Mexican breads and pastries with fresh cakes and desserts prominently displayed. Atmosphere stays clean and orderly with a welcoming vibe and reasonable prices. Bread and tamales vary in quality, but cakes often stand out for their delicate design and taste.

Tamales here vary in quality, with some being spicy and very good, while others fall short and are considered the worst by some.

Freshness stands out with bread always super fresh and available early in the day. A unique concha flavor and a great selection of Mexican breads add variety and richness beyond typical options.

People are saying

"The strawberry tres leches cake was moist, fresh, and perfectly balanced."

"The cakes from this bakery are beautifully crafted and perfect for any celebration."

"These tamales were very good and spicy."

Good to know

1

Rubí's Bakery offers a wide selection of freshly baked goods, including cakes and pastries.

2

Prices are reasonable, with cakes costing around $26 to $28.

3

There is ample free parking available on the street and beside the building.

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