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Tamales for breakfast

Tamales that feel like a proper, sit-down breakfast rather than a rushed, on-the-go morning snack.

Based on 727 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Chicago Breakfast Restaurant image 1
Chicago Breakfast Restaurant image 2
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Breakfast restaurant

Cozy diner-style space with a warm, family-like atmosphere and Mexican-themed decor. The restaurant offers authentic Mexican breakfast dishes alongside American options, attracting a diverse crowd. Free parking in the rear and a varied menu add to its inviting, community-focused vibe.

Pork tamales stand out with a moist, delicious texture. They pair well with sides like a skillet or pancakes.

Breakfast features perfectly cooked eggs over easy, crispy but tender hash browns, and well done bacon that is not burnt. American and Mexican dishes offer a variety of homemade flavors.

People are saying

"I found the breakfast delicious and the coffee was great."

"The Mexican food here is delicious, especially the chilaquiles."

"These tamales are so good and not dry at all."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available around the back of the restaurant.

2

The menu features a variety of options from Mexican to American.

3

They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner all day.

02
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 1

Small interior space with cozy indoor seating and a covered outdoor patio creates a calm, welcoming vibe. Quiet atmosphere suits one-on-one conversations and relaxed visits. Regulars enjoy the unique flavors and careful preparation that enhance the experience.

Tamales come with the right amount of heat and have excellent flavor and texture. Breakfast tamales pair well with drinks like dulce de leche lattes and cortados.

Breakfast features two eggs dishes and breakfast sandwiches paired with coffee and lattes. Options suit a quick stop or a casual meal.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating is great, and the food is delicious."

"Their breakfast crepes and dulce de leche lattes are amazing."

"The tamales here are excellent and the staff is very friendly."

Good to know

1

The outdoor seating is dog friendly and offers a pup cup for pets.

2

There is free parking available around the neighborhood.

3

They accommodate various dietary needs for customers.

03
Cafe del Sol image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy space with beautiful decor and comfortable sofas creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Music plays softly while a bookshelf with games and books adds a charming touch. Variety of seating options and a business card table support both relaxation and local connections.

Tamales come hot and ready to eat, with a moist texture and authentic flavor. The green tamale stands out as particularly tasty, and even the red tamales impress with their flavor.

Breakfast features a chorizo breakfast burrito and a green tamal. Drinks include horchata latte iced and Heart-Chata espresso.

People are saying

"The horchata latte here has an amazing flavor."

"This cafe is super cute and cozy with lots of plants."

"I loved the breakfast burrito with chorizo and horchata latte."

Good to know

1

They have two tables outside, so if you have a dog, you can sit outside too.

2

The cafe is small and can get busy, limiting seating availability.

3

The menu includes muffins, bagels, burritos, croissants, and various coffee drinks.

04
Sabroso! Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with quirky warm decor and intimate indoor seating plus a noisy street-side patio. Atmosphere feels authentic and welcoming, with staff engaging in celebrations and live entertainment. Guests often bring their own tequila to complement the homemade margarita mix.

Tamales come big and meaty, with pork and chicken options. The chicken tamale with green sauce stands out as especially flavorful.

Steak and breakfast burritos stand out as the main highlights. The menu offers a nice variety focused on hearty, flavorful options. This spot serves a great breakfast brunch experience.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be incredibly authentic and delicious."

"These tamales are the biggest and most flavorful I've ever had."

"I considered the breakfast burrito the best I have ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

You can bring your own beer, making it a BYOB spot.

3

Expect large portion sizes for the price you pay.

05
Tasa Coffee Roasters image 1

Spacious coffee shop with modern, stylish decor and bright, airy atmosphere creates a warm and welcoming vibe. Comfortable seating and plentiful outlets support relaxed work or socializing. A small glass room showcases on-site coffee bean roasting, adding a unique touch to the experience.

Soft, flavorful tamales stand out here with a solid reputation. Nearby, larger tamales offer more size and flavor at the same price.

Breakfast sandwiches stand out here, especially the cinnamon toast version paired with a latte. Tamales with red pork and green chicken also serve as a tasty breakfast option that reheats well.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was great and delicious."

"I thought the tamales were very good."

"I thought the breakfast sandwich was unbelievably good."

Good to know

1

They serve tamales on weekends.

2

They roast their own coffee beans right in house.

3

Tasa sources coffee beans from women-owned farms.

06
Tio’s Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a cozy, family-friendly space with bright, clean decor and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The menu features amazing tamales and fresh, homemade salsas that attract repeat customers. Seating includes chairs and a bar table suited for small groups or individuals.

Tamales come moist and flavorful with options like green chile chicken, red pork, and even dessert tamales. They offer a good amount of chicken and stay affordable while delivering consistent taste.

Breakfast features a flavorful breakfast special and chicken with green sauce tamale. The menu offers solid options for both breakfast and lunch tacos.

People are saying

"These tamales are so fluffy and flavorful."

"I found the authentic Mexican food to be affordable and delicious."

"I wished I had ordered more of the flavorful tamales for breakfast."

Good to know

1

Parking is available off street.

2

Only up to five people can dine in at the restaurant.

3

Prices range from $1 to $10, making it affordable.

07
Santa Masa Tamaleria image 1

Small tamale shop with diner-style counter seating and authentic Mexican decor creates a cozy, family-oriented atmosphere that feels like dining at a friend's home. The space is lively and welcoming, energized by attentive owners and regulars focused on fresh, flavorful food preparation.

Soft, moist handmade masa forms the base of tamales with great flavor. Unique options include a strawberry dessert tamale and a pork tamale topped with sauce and pico, plus tasty vegan choices with poblano peppers and onions.

Breakfast service impresses with quick and friendly attention. Mexican breakfast dishes offer rich flavors and satisfy cravings even in the afternoon.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was off the charts delicious."

"You have to try the Italian beef tamales; they're Chicago on a plate."

"Their tamales are phenomenal and delicious for breakfast."

Good to know

1

Pozole is only available on weekends at Santa Masa Tamaleria.

2

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

3

Everything is made to order, so be prepared for a short wait.

08
The Great American Bagel image 1

Bagel shop offers fresh bagels with a variety of flavors and diverse food options beyond bagels. Atmosphere feels lively and inviting, making it suitable for breakfast and coffee. Pricing tends to be on the higher side compared to similar places.

Weekend offerings include homemade tamales that stand out. The pork tamales with green sauce draw family favorites consistently.

Breakfast features a veggie supreme with egg option that combines taste and nutrition. Quick service makes it a solid spot for a grab-and-go breakfast paired with coffee.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were great."

"I had to check if my sandwich was made correctly."

"I loved the bagels; they're among the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Ordering a bagel costs $3, with cream cheese adding $2.25.

2

Butter on the side costs an additional $1.25.

3

The shop offers a variety of food options beyond bagels.

09
LA TACITA DE PLATA image 1
Guatemalan restaurant

Small restaurant offers authentic Guatemalan cuisine with large portions and rich, flavorful dishes. Cozy atmosphere includes a Latin convenience store selling Guatemalan snacks. The setting is intimate and well organized, attracting those interested in ethnic food experiences.

Huge tamales stand out here, especially the Guatemalan style ones. Pork tamales bring a surprisingly spicy kick, while the Chuchito tamale offers a perfect blend of masa and savory fillings.

Desayuno Chapin and Chuchito stand out as breakfast options. The Guatemalan breakfast takes about 20 minutes to cook despite being labeled quick.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and well prepared."

"I loved the authentic Guatemalan food and flavors here."

"These tamales are huge and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a small convenience store selling Latin items.

2

Parking is limited in the small corner plaza where the restaurant is located.

3

The restaurant offers authentic Guatemalan dishes that provide a taste of Central America.

10
La Luz Bakery image 1

Bakery offers Mexican pastries, large tamales, and tres leches cake with reasonable prices. Displays are clean and inviting, creating a kind atmosphere. Variety includes tamales, cakes, cookies, and bread with a focus on authentic flavors.

Tamales come fresh and warm with options like pork and chicken. They offer both mild and hot varieties, with large size and good flavor, though some find them a bit dry with less meat.

Breakfast includes a fantastic breakfast sandwich along with tortas and tamales that work well for everyday meals. Options focus on hearty, flavorful choices.

People are saying

"This bakery has excellent baked goods."

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

"I loved their tortas and tamales for breakfast."

Good to know

1

Most items are labeled with prices, making it easy to choose.

2

Expect to pay $20 for a cake, which is reasonable.

3

They charge higher fees for credit card payments.

11
Molcajete Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with limited seating and a takeout-focused atmosphere. Offers authentic dishes like tacos and fajitas with juicy, well-cooked meat and a variety of vegetarian options. The space feels welcoming and warm despite its size.

Soft masa wraps the tamales without overpowering the fillings. Sauces offer a perfect balance that complements the delicious tamales well.

Breakfast features a breakfast burrito that stands out for its flavor and size. The overall morning menu offers amazing options that satisfy early cravings.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and fresh."

"The tamales here are served by the sweetest, friendliest people."

"Their breakfast burrito is the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers discounted tacos, making it a popular event.

2

The restaurant has limited dine-in seating, so arrive early.

3

Expect smaller portion sizes compared to other Mexican restaurants.

12
Mix Mex Cue image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining with a friendly, laid-back vibe and a cute back patio. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming for families, creating a comfortable and inviting space. The setting is small but visually appealing, encouraging guests to linger.

Green chicken tamale and steak torta stand out as tasty options. Tamales come with a sour taste that might seem unusual. They are popular enough to be worth taking home.

Breakfast features off-menu tacos with scrambled eggs, cheese, and brisket on Sundays. The menu includes breakfast burritos, omelettes, and quesadillas alongside truffle fries.

People are saying

"You have to try the Mexican food; the homemade tortillas are amazing."

"I loved the breakfast tacos and burritos here."

"I found the green chicken tamale delicious."

Good to know

1

The parking lot is located behind the building.

2

They accept card and have a Zelle barcode.

3

They offer a discount if paid in cash.

13
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.

Breakfast features tacos with fried cheese tortillas and thick chorizo paired with egg, cheese, and avocado. Other options include baja fish tacos, pan de elote cakes, guava donuts, and a breakfast burrito with shrimp.

People are saying

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

"The breakfast tacos are flavorful with chorizo and fried cheese."

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

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.

14
A Cup Of Joe image 1
Coffee shop

Cozy cafe with local artwork and a Hispanic cultural vibe fills the space with sunlight and a lively playlist. Seating offers comfortable spots to relax amid creative decor. Atmosphere feels welcoming and reflects pride in origins.

Tamales offer a mix of experiences with some being very tasty and a weekend favorite. The pork (red) tamales have dry masa and little pork, lacking flavor for pork tamale lovers.

Breakfast features fresh, delicious sandwiches with options like bacon and sausage egg and cheese. The food combines warmth and contrasting flavors for a comforting start to the day.

People are saying

"I loved this coffee shop; it felt like a safe space."

"The coffee here is actually good; I enjoyed it."

"Julian was a good person and made my experience better."

Good to know

1

There is no public restroom available for customers at A Cup Of Joe.

2

Parking is a challenge if spaces are full on Archer.

3

It is best to park on a side street.

15
Maria’s Tamales Y Champurrado image 1

Mexican restaurant with calm atmosphere and welcoming vibe featuring a big mural and on-point music. It attracts those who appreciate authentic tamales and value-packed tacos. The space feels family-owned and friendly.

Tamales here are authentic and home style, with options like pepper and cheese and spicy chicken varieties. They come in large quantities on short notice and are easy for kids to eat.

Breakfast burrito stands out with rich flavors and generous fillings. It delivers a satisfying and hearty start to the day.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and great tasting."

"These tamales are so flavorful and tasty."

"I had the breakfast burrito; it was out of this world."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay a 3.99% fee for credit card payments.

2

Cash is preferred for payments to avoid extra fees.

3

The restaurant often runs out of tamales due to high demand.

16
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.

Breakfast includes a corn arepa and a breakfast plate with fresh, tasty food. Meals come from a spot that also serves bakery and pizza items.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I thought the breakfast was delicious and tasty."

"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.

17
Tamales Y Mas Tamales image 1

Small space offers a cozy atmosphere with a friendly vibe that feels like home. Tamales come in a wide variety and taste authentic and fresh, often prepared while waiting. Prices tend to be on the higher side compared to street vendors.

Tamales come large and meat-filled with a homemade feel and generous portions. They offer a variety of flavors, including Oaxacan style, all with rich, delicious taste.

Cozy and clean atmosphere suits a quick breakfast. Chilaquiles with eggs and carne asada offer a delicious start to the day.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be amazing and flavorful."

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

"I loved the tamales and atole drinks for breakfast."

Good to know

1

Tamales Y Mas Tamales accepts credit cards, making payment easier.

2

Expect to pay around $76 for thirty tamales, including tax.

3

The restaurant is known for its fresh tamales made to order.

18
Jefa Tacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with vibrant Latino decor and bright murals creates a friendly, lively atmosphere. Music plays loudly, sometimes featuring a mariachi band, adding to the energetic vibe. Popular for authentic tacos and michelada specials, it draws a steady crowd despite limited seating.

Tamales here have a large selection and sell out quickly. They come highly recommended and pair well with the guacamole.

Breakfast includes Jefa tacos and breakfast tacos that pack a lot of flavor. The menu recently added these options, making it a solid choice for a morning meal.

People are saying

"The quesabirrias here are absolutely amazing, a must-try."

"I found the breakfast and Jefa tacos to be delicious."

"You have to try the tamales; they're amazing and sell out fast."

Good to know

1

The tacos are 2 for $5 on Friday.

2

Their 2-for-$5 Taco Tuesday deal is unbeatable.

3

Most recently, they offered a $5 michelada special on Thursdays.

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