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Lunch tamale spots

A lunch spot serving tamales where you can actually take a break instead of eating at your desk.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Sabroso! Mexican Grill image 1
Sabroso! Mexican Grill image 2
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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.

Lunch offers delicious Mexican dishes with generous portions that often leave leftovers for next day. The atmosphere feels fun and family-friendly.

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."

"This lunch spot's burritos are massive and hit the spot."

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.

02
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.

Frequent visits for lunch highlight the burger and tacos as common choices. The spot draws regulars looking for a quick, satisfying midday meal.

People are saying

"These tamales are so fluffy and flavorful."

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

"The Lunch Spot tamales are so moist and flavorful."

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.

03
Taqueria Tejupilco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy space with only a few tables creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere feels casual and authentic, with a chill, pleasant vibe. Known for authentic Mexican food and affordable prices, it draws those seeking fresh, flavorful tacos in a hole-in-the-wall environment.

Tamales come out very tasty and stand out among other dishes like tacos and tortas. They hold up well in a menu full of varied Mexican options.

Lunch includes a burrito with al pastor and natural aguas. The menu offers solid options for a midday meal.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be the best."

"This lunch spot has delicious Mexican food with fresh ingredients."

"I found the tamales here to be full of flavor and authentic."

Good to know

1

The al pastor burrito costs only $10.

2

They offer different sizes of burritos, including a 'junior' size.

3

The prices at Taqueria Tejupilco are very affordable.

04
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.

Lunch features some awesome options including a chicken and bacon sandwich that stands out.

People are saying

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

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

"The flavor at this Lunch Spot is insanely good."

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.

05
Taco Moro image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space with vibrant colors and entertaining artwork on the walls creates an intimate atmosphere. Lively 80s music videos play, adding to the warm and welcoming vibe. The place draws people looking for authentic tacos and a comfortable setting.

Corn tamales stand out with rich flavor and great texture. The green tamale offers a unique taste that surpasses many others. Overall, tamales here taste really good and are consistently satisfying.

Lunch features a variety of warm, fresh churros available any hour. Frequent visits make it a regular part of the lunch rotation near the office.

People are saying

"The steak tacos here are made with real, high-quality steak."

"The quesabirria tacos at this Lunch Spot are amazing."

"I highly recommend the quesabirria; it was perfect."

Good to know

1

Taco Moro is certified halal, with the entire menu being halal.

2

Dinner costs around $16 for three steak tacos, rice, and beans.

3

Parking is easy with plenty of available spaces.

06
Tacos Los Primos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, casual space with authentic Mexican food and loud Mexican music sets a lively tone. Families and diverse diners gather, enjoying plentiful parking and an open patio. Shrimp and steak tacos stand out as local favorites.

Tamales come fresh and warm right off the pot with moist, meaty fillings like green salsa chicken and red pork. The chili pepper tamale stands out as extremely good and flavorful.

Lunch here offers a break from typical fast food with more satisfying options. The spot is worth visiting especially when getting car service nearby.

People are saying

"I loved their Mexican Food, especially the tacos."

"I found the tamales here to be moist, meaty, and flavorful."

"The carne asada burrito and tacos here are really yummy."

Good to know

1

Parking is available at Tacos Los Primos.

2

Queso birria is the house specialty according to the menu.

3

All additional baskets of chips and salsa cost $3 each.

07
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.

Back patio seating offers a relaxed spot for lunch. Steak tacos provide a satisfying portion and work well for a midday meal during a break or to take home.

People are saying

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

"The steak torta is perfectly balanced and seasoned."

"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.

08
El Milagro Tortillas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a cafeteria style setup featuring food behind glass and self-service ordering. Atmosphere feels authentic and lively, reminiscent of a local taco shop in Mexico with warm details and historic facade. Popular spot known for affordable, big portions and some of the best tortillas and tamales.

Savory and sweet tamales come in excellent variety with authentic flavors that remind of childhood. Chicken and pork tamales stand out as delicious and addictive offerings.

Quick lunch tacos make this spot a solid choice for a midday meal. It fits well into a regular lunch routine with consistently fantastic food.

People are saying

"This taco is humongous, stuffed with steak and rice."

"I found the tamales authentic and reminiscent of childhood."

"This lunch spot's tacos are stuffed with big chunks of steak."

Good to know

1

Get there early as they sometimes run out of tortillas by 11:30 AM.

2

To guarantee tamales, call ahead and pay in advance.

3

Expect big portions at reasonable prices.

09
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.

Lunch features a mix of Mexican and classic American dishes. Options cover both lunch and dinner menus with familiar 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.

10
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.

Lunch features unique items like the Italian beef tamal. Meals inspire planning for return visits.

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."

"You have to try the Italian beef tamal at this lunch spot."

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.

11
Peru Criollo image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian restaurant with colorful textiles and traditional art creates an authentic setting. Atmosphere stays lively yet intimate, with salsa music at a comfortable volume. Small, cozy space features custom-made lights and welcomes BYOB with a corkage fee.

Pork tamales come fresh and flavorful with perfect preparation. They serve well as an appetizer alongside ceviche and pair nicely with Maracuya fresh water.

Late lunch visits focus on Peruvian food with solid options. Weekend lunches draw casual crowds seeking authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and tastes like Peru."

"The pork tamales here are so fresh and flavorful."

"The waitress at this Lunch Spot was so friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Heads up: Peru Criollo is BYOB, but they charge a small corkage fee.

2

Reservations are recommended for weekend dining to avoid long waits.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can be limited during peak hours.

12
Odge's image 1
Hamburger restaurant

Small burger joint with nostalgic decor and an old school vibe feels like stepping into a community spot or mini museum. Crowded but cozy space hosts a steady flow of locals enjoying classic burgers and fries. Prices stay fair, matching the vintage atmosphere and quality food.

Tamales here come with a mix of opinions. The regular tamales stand out as solid, but the chili tamales tend to miss the mark.

Offers a quick lunch option with a focus on fried dishes. Serves as a regular spot for nearby workers seeking a fast meal.

People are saying

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

"This is a great lunch spot for awesome burgers and hot dogs."

"The tamales here are so delicious and tasty."

Good to know

1

Odge's is cash-only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

The restaurant closes between 3 PM and 5 PM, so plan accordingly.

3

Odge's has a buy 4 get one free special on certain items.

13
The SoulFood Lounge 2 image 1
Soul food restaurant

Small soul food restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere with an all-black aesthetic and live music featuring jazz and saxophone. The vibe stays laid back and refreshing, suited for quiet dinners or date nights. Space is limited, creating a cozy but sometimes cramped setting.

Shrimp Tamales offer bold, awakening flavors and work well for sharing. Other tamale dishes tend to be overly doughy with too much flour, lacking the right balance of cornmeal.

Street parking stays manageable during lunch hours. The lunch menu offers tasty and unique dishes at good prices.

People are saying

"The American Food here, like the turkey leg, is off the bone and delicious."

"The Lunch Spot's flavorful food portions were huge and amazing."

"I loved the fabulous Shrimp Tamales with coconut sauce."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary to secure a spot inside the restaurant.

2

Parking can be difficult, often requiring a walk from 1-3 blocks away.

3

The restaurant has a 'No Share Policy' for events like 'The Grand Tasting'.

14
Superdawg Drive-In image 1
Hot dog stand

Drive-in hot dog stand with car hop service and classic 1950s style creates a nostalgic atmosphere. Eating in cars or at outdoor seating offers a fun family vibe with an authentic old-school Chicago feel. Iconic giant hot dog on the roof marks the well-maintained location.

Tamales have a great taste and smell. They pair well with pineapple shakes and come alongside classic items like hot dogs and fries.

Lunch comes quickly with a carhop service delivering meals right to your car. The spot suits a busy lunch hour with a drive-in setup that lets you eat while watching the activity around you.

People are saying

"I thought the hot dogs and cheeseburgers were great."

"The fries at this Lunch Spot are amazing and packed full."

"I've been coming here for decades and the tamales quality has never changed."

Good to know

1

Superdawg Drive-In is a drive-in restaurant where you eat in your car.

2

Parking at Superdawg Drive-In can be challenging.

3

The bathroom is very clean and well-maintained.

15
Taqueria El Milagro image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cafeteria-style setup with minimalistic design and stained glass lighting creates a peaceful, authentic Mexican atmosphere. The place fills with a lively lunch crowd, offering a down-to-earth vibe that feels like home. Known for high-quality tacos, it blends tradition with casual dining.

Tamales stand out with large slivers of chili and a good selection of tamales de rajas. They come across as homemade and delicious, often considered some of the best around.

Steak lunch tacos draw a crowd during lunch hours. Expect a lively vibe and sometimes a wait, though lines move fairly quickly.

People are saying

"These tamales are amazing and could be the best in town."

"I found the food to be the most authentic I have ever had."

"This lunch spot's food is delicious and fulfilling."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

2

Expect limited parking availability near the restaurant.

3

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

16
Taco Lulú image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with rustic decor and vibrant colors creates a fun, cozy atmosphere despite often feeling hot inside. It operates as an order-at-the-counter spot with indoor and outdoor seating, including a bar area. Music tends to be loud rap and hip hop, adding to a lively but sometimes intense vibe.

Green tamales stand out as a preferred choice over red, offering a tasty option. The tamales come with delicious guacamole and include chicken varieties that complement the menu well.

Offers a consistent lunch option that fits well into a weekly routine. The spot feels perfect for lunch with a straightforward, reliable menu.

People are saying

"The Mexican food, especially the tacos, is so flavorful."

"This lunch spot's tacos are fresh, delicious, and abundant."

"I enjoyed the chicken tacos and tamales here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3pm to 5pm daily, Monday to Friday.

2

The restaurant has kiosks for ordering to avoid waiting in line.

3

Expect to pay around $22 for three tacos and a drink.

17
Jimmy's Red Hots image 1
Hot dog stand

Hot dog stand with a classic Chicago diner vibe and bustling, friendly atmosphere filled mostly with locals. It operates on a cash-only basis and serves Chicago-style hot dogs and Polish sausages known for their distinctive flavor and quick service.

Tamales come individually wrapped in quarters and include versions with Polish sausage and hot dogs. They offer an old school style with authentic Chicago flavors and can be served on a bun.

Quick service and low cost make it a solid choice for lunch. Meals come fast and the spot works well for a casual, budget-friendly midday break.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and reasonably priced."

"I considered the tamales authentic Chicago-style."

"I loved the hot dog with the works and fresh-cut fries."

Good to know

1

Jimmy's Red Hots is cash only; bring cash to pay.

2

They charge an additional 4 dollars for ATM usage.

3

Jimmy's Red Hots is open late on weekends.

18
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.

Lunch specials include juice, soup, and a choice of chicken or steak with rice optional. Some dishes stand out as very good, while others vary in quality. Cafecito con leche is a common afternoon choice.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and always fresh."

"The coffee and empanadas here are delicious."

"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.

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