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Tamales and coffee in Illinois

A cup of coffee is the only logical way to round out a meal of tamales.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 1
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 2
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 3
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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.

Creative latte options like lavender latte, rose cardamom latte, and dulce de leche latte stand out. Both iced and hot versions, including a honey coconut iced latte and an oat milk latte, offer smooth, rich flavors.

People are saying

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

"Their coffee, especially the dulce de leche latte, is delicious."

"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.

02
Salsa’s Family Market image 1

Small grocery store with fresh salsas, homemade tamales, and a wide selection of spices and nondairy options. Atmosphere feels friendly and vibrant, reflecting a family-owned, neighborhood bodega vibe. Offers kitchen staples, sandwiches, and fresh coffee, making it a convenient spot for everyday needs.

Weekend tamales come fresh and house-made with options like sweet corn tamale. They pair well with salsa verde cruda and drinks like horchata latte or lemonade.

Fresh coffee comes with a horchata latte option served hot or cold. The coffee pairs well with homemade salsas, soups, dips, and tamales. Friendly service complements the neighborhood bodega vibe.

People are saying

"I found the homemade salsas here to be outstanding."

"I loved their coffee, especially the horchata latte."

"These weekend tamales are so good, I teared up eating them."

Good to know

1

Salsa’s Family Market offers a great selection of homemade salsas and staples.

2

They have house-made salsas, horchata, coffees, and sandwiches available.

3

Expect a friendly atmosphere with helpful staff at Salsa’s Family Market.

03
El Capitan Snacks & Coffee image 1

Large space filled with beautiful art and live plants creates a calming, cozy atmosphere with plenty of sunshine. The vibe suits working, meetings, and casual hangouts with good background music and free WiFi. Affordable prices and a community-focused spirit make it welcoming and inviting.

Tamales come fresh and fluffy with options like pork, chicken, and cheese with jalapeño. They pair well with drinks like horchata latte made with oat milk.

Coffee here stands out with horchata latte and hazelnut iced coffee options that balance sweetness well. The service is warm and welcoming, complementing the great coffee experience.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The coffee and churro here are delicious."

"These tamales are so fresh and fluffy."

Good to know

1

There is a free community parking lot next door.

2

They have a large space and WiFi for working.

3

The menu offers a variety of options for all cravings.

04
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.

Coffee here stands out for its perfectly crafted lattes and consistently excellent quality. The spot offers amazing vibes alongside top-notch food and drinks that make it a favorite neighborhood choice.

People are saying

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

"The avocado toast with chorizo and egg is so delicious."

"I thought the tamales were very 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.

05
Wheeling Donuts image 1
Donut shop

Small, family-run donut shop with an old-fashioned atmosphere and homemade donut aroma. Quiet space with small tables invites casual enjoyment. Known for fresh, soft donuts that offer great value and distinct flavor.

Excellent tamales stand out as a special treat here. They consistently deliver solid flavor and quality.

Drip coffee stands out with a richer taste than Starbucks. It pairs perfectly with buttermilk donuts for a classic combo. The coffee has a nostalgic vibe, reminiscent of a 90s cop diet.

People are saying

"These donuts are so fresh and tasty!"

"The coffee here is tasty and fresh."

"These tamales are delicious, soft, and fresh."

Good to know

1

A dozen donuts costs $12, making them very affordable.

2

Wheeling Donuts opens at 4 PM daily.

3

They can accommodate peanut allergies, making it family-friendly.

06
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.

Coffee here offers unique flavors like the tres leches latte with oat milk and the iced horchata latte with amazing taste. The pistachio latte includes bits that add texture, and the choco latte brings nostalgic chocolate notes.

People are saying

"The horchata latte here has an amazing flavor."

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

"This coffee spot is so cute and cozy, a really chill vibe."

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.

07
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.

Spanish coffee stands out as a fresh and well-prepared option. This spot offers a solid place to enjoy coffee alongside a meal in the neighborhood.

People are saying

"These tamales are so fluffy and flavorful."

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

"The coffee here is fresh and perfect."

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.

08
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.

Coffee comes with Colombian bread and empanadas that pair well. The cafe offers Pony Malta alongside its coffee and desserts.

People are saying

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

"I thought the empanadas were amazing and very good."

"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.

09
Que Buen Churro image 1

Churreria with a clean, modern vibe and an authentic station store feeling offers fresh-made churros prepared on order. The atmosphere is friendly and welcoming, making it a convenient spot for quick treats before catching a train.

Tamales come out very good and stand out especially on weekends. They appear on the menu only on some days and pair well with football Sunday.

Coffee comes out at super sonic speed, perfect for quick stops before the train. Options include hot fresh churros and Pumpkin Pie Iced Coffee, both tasty and satisfying.

People are saying

"These churros are absolutely delicious and delightful."

"I found the tamales here to be fantastic."

"The coffee and churros here are delicious."

Good to know

1

The shop is closed on Mondays, a busy commuter day.

2

They offer fresh tamales on select days.

3

Churros are made fresh right in front of you.

10
Café Fénix image 1

Small, colorful cafe with local artwork and handmade items creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere that feels like part of the neighborhood. Friendly team and community vibe make it a welcoming spot for working or catching up. Offers affordable, flavorful food blending American and Mexican influences.

Chicken tamales come out very flavorful with fresh-tasting masa that is not dry. Prices stay affordable while serving a mix of American and Mexican dishes including tamales and tortas.

Strong and consistently top-notch coffee fuels mornings and pairs well with food. Options include iced coffee and soy lattes, offering a reliable pick-me-up in a relaxing space.

People are saying

"The Cafe's coffee is top-notch and affordable."

"The chicken tamales here are excellent and flavorful."

"Their coffee was top-notch and a perfect pick-me-up."

Good to know

1

Two coffees and two breakfast sandwiches cost under $20.

2

Café Fénix offers free wifi.

3

They serve a mix of American and Mexican food, including tamales, tortas, and sandwiches.

11
Taqueria Mi Nuevo San Juan image 1

Small, cozy Mexican restaurant with a friendly atmosphere and clean interior. Music plays softly, creating a relaxing vibe. Mostly carries out with limited seating, known for quesabirria tacos and fresh salsas.

Fresh tamales come with a nice amount of filling. Pork tacos and tamales pair well together.

Mexican-style coffee stands out with coffee de olla and pot coffee offering rich, traditional flavors. Tacos pair well with these distinctive brews.

People are saying

"You have to try the quesabirria tacos; they're so flavorful."

"The tamales here tasted great and were seasoned well."

"I enjoyed the delicious coffee and tacos."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers $2 tacos, making it a popular day to visit.

2

Parking can be difficult due to shared spaces with other businesses.

3

The restaurant is primarily a carry-out place with limited seating.

12
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.

Cafe de Olla stands out with its spiced coffee flavor. This place serves a delightful treat for coffee lovers.

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."

"I loved the spiced coffee; it was a delightful treat."

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.

13
Chicago Breakfast Restaurant image 1
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.

Coffee varies here, with some visits noting great coffee and others just good coffee. To-go coffee comes in a styrofoam cup.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the coffee here was great."

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.

14
Aracely's Bakery image 1

Bakery offers authentic Mexican pastries with early opening hours starting at 4:30 AM. Atmosphere feels welcoming and comforting with staff interactions. Known for delicious tamales and conchas, it attracts those seeking traditional flavors.

Pork in red sauce tamales stand out for their rich flavor. The red chicken tamales earn high marks for taste. Tamales here are consistently fresh and delicious.

Horchata Latte stands out as a unique and delicious option. Other drinks like the horchata espresso and cappuccino also deliver strong flavors alongside good coffee quality.

People are saying

"These tamales taste like my grandma used to make them."

"These donuts are so fresh and delicious, way better than chain places."

"Their horchata latte coffee is delicious."

Good to know

1

The bakery opens at 4:30 AM, perfect for early morning shifts.

2

A torta costs $10 plus tax.

3

Cakes are priced around $35 for a 12-inch diameter.

15
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.

Coffee here is delicious with a variety of drinks like iced horchata and mazapan lattes. The drip coffee and pastries also stand out, making it a solid spot for a great local cup.

People are saying

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

"I'd come back just for their amazing breakfast sandwich."

"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.

16
Tamales Don Misael image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small Mexican restaurant with a cozy, homey atmosphere and family vibe. Tables are bolted down and small, suited for groups but limiting comfort. Space feels organized for takeout, with a friendly and quick pace during busy times.

Tamales here stand out for their bold flavors and a variety of fillings like spicy chicken verde and pork. The masa is rich and sometimes heavy, but the overall taste is consistently delicious and satisfying.

Coffee has a good flavor but is scarce in availability. It pairs well with breakfast, making for a delicious start to the day.

People are saying

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

"I thought the steak tacos were delicious."

"I found the coffee here to be good."

Good to know

1

The tamales cost $25.00 per dozen, which may be considered expensive.

2

During rush hours, expect a wait for your order.

3

The parking lot is small and located on the west side of the restaurant.

17
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.

Coffee comes with milk and tastes delicious. It pairs well with baked goods like tamales and arepas.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"I found the coffee here to be amazing."

"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.

18
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.

Quick coffee pairs with bread here. The coffee center feels limited.

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.

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