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Local picks in Chicago

Tamales

Made for those who treat the search for an authentic tamale as a serious culinary pursuit.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
El Capitan Snacks & Coffee image 1
El Capitan Snacks & Coffee image 2
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Large space with beautiful art and live plants offers a cozy vibe perfect for work or hangouts. Fresh, fluffy tamales come in pork, chicken, and cheese with jalapeño, paired well with a creamy horchata latte. Affordable prices and free WiFi make it welcoming and easy to stay.

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.

People are saying

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

"The churros are warm, fresh, fluffy, and crunchy."

"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.

02
Sabroso! Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot shines with authentic atmosphere and intimate seating. Tamales are big and meaty, especially the chicken with green sauce. Guests enjoy lively vibes and often bring their own tequila to pair with homemade margaritas.

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

People are saying

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

"You have to save room for their incredible desserts."

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

03
Dulce De Leche Cafecito image 1

Cozy indoor seating and a covered patio create a calm vibe perfect for quiet chats. Tamales offer excellent flavor with just the right heat, pairing well with dulce de leche lattes. Regulars love the careful preparation that makes each visit special.

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.

People are saying

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

"Their iced Dulce De Leche latte was perfect and not too sweet."

"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.

04
Salsa’s Family Market image 1

Small grocery store offers fresh salsas and homemade tamales like sweet corn on weekends. Friendly vibe matches its wide spice selection and nondairy options. Great for quick staples, sandwiches, and fresh coffee.

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.

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.

05
Healthy and Simple Juices image 1

Juice shop serves fresh juices with creative combos for vegan and omnivores. Tamales oaxaqueños offer authentic flavor and rich texture. Vibrant atmosphere with colorful glassware and light music makes it a fun spot with healthy choices and fair prices.

Tamales oaxaqueños stand out for their authentic flavor and texture. These tamales offer a rich, traditional taste that many find impressive.

People are saying

"I loved the smoothies here; they tasted so fresh."

"The food here tasted so fresh and was made to order."

"I thought the tamales here were amazing."

Good to know

1

They recently raised their prices significantly, so check the menu before ordering.

2

There is an extra charge for card payments that may not be clearly posted.

3

The place is spotless, ensuring a clean environment for customers.

06
Chicago Breakfast Restaurant image 1
Breakfast restaurant

Cozy diner with authentic Mexican decor offers a warm, family-like vibe. Pork tamales are moist and delicious, perfect with pancakes. Free parking and a varied menu make it a welcoming spot for all.

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

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.

07
Guatelinda Bakery image 1

Small bakery serves authentic Guatemalan tamales like paches and pork with rich flavor. Friendly, casual spot offers traditional pastries and sweet breads at affordable prices. Focus on quality and authenticity makes it a genuine taste experience.

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.

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.

08
Tamale Mami - Little Lulus image 1

Tamale shop shines with bold flavors in jerk oxtail and chicken tamales that spice up the palate. Cozy, adorable atmosphere invites guests to linger and enjoy. Desserts like tres leches and cheesecakes add a sweet finish loved by many.

Tamales feature amazing flavors with standout options like oxtail and jerk varieties. Large orders disappear quickly, showing how delicious and popular they are.

People are saying

"These tamales are delicious and packed with amazing flavors."

"The tres leches and peach cobbler cheesecakes are amazing."

"I had the Oreo Tres Leches cake and it was so freakin good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak lunch hours from 12pm to 2pm.

3

Pricing for main dishes ranges from $10 to $25.

09
Peru Criollo image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Peruvian spot shines with pork tamales that are fresh and flavorful. Colorful textiles and traditional art create an authentic setting. Lively yet intimate vibe with salsa music and cozy space 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.

People are saying

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

"The Ceviche here is amazing, and Evelyn was so attentive."

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

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.

10
Zavalas grocery image 1
Grocery store

Grocery store offers fresh produce and a butcher shop with tender carnitas. Small restaurant serves freshly made tamales with rich, authentic flavors. Friendly atmosphere makes it a standout spot for Mexican foods and hearty meals.

Tamales come freshly made and delicious here, standing out alongside carnitas and menudo. The flavors are rich and authentic, making them a solid choice for a hearty meal.

People are saying

"I found the carnitas here to be the best I ever had."

"The food here, especially the carnitas, is amazing."

"I found the tamales to be delicious and freshly made."

Good to know

1

Zavalas grocery offers a wide variety of fresh produce and quality ingredients.

2

The butcher shop provides excellent meat options and quick service.

3

Carnitas are weighed at checkout, ensuring you get exactly what you want.

11
Tamaleria Lupita #2 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Simple, clean space offers easy navigation and a quiet vibe. Tamales shine with perfectly seasoned masa and a standout strawberry tamale. Prices stay fair, making it a top spot for high-quality Mexican food without the usual letdowns.

Tamales come fresh and hot with a perfectly seasoned masa and tender fillings. Varieties include a well-balanced protein to masa ratio and a notable strawberry tamale done right.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be amazing and flavorful."

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

"I thought the tamales here were unbeatable and incredibly good."

Good to know

1

They sell out of tamales, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

2

Expect to wait a few minutes during busy weekend hours.

3

The place opens at 5AM Monday through Friday and closes at 6PM.

12
Lily's Supermarket image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store offers a wide variety of Mexican products and exquisite tamales sold by the dozen with single fillings. Known for great carnitas and tacos, it feels welcoming despite occasional odors. Tamales come in red pork and green chicken flavors with good quality.

Tamales come in red pork and green chicken flavors and are sold only by the dozen or half-dozen with a single filling per order. Quality is generally good, though opinions on them vary.

People are saying

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

"I felt this local grocery store truly makes a difference."

"I thought the carnitas here were great!"

Good to know

1

Tamales are only sold by the dozen or half-dozen.

2

Tamales are sold with a single filling only.

3

Lily's Supermarket has a variety of groceries and prepared meals.

13
Rico's Tacos & Mexican Grill image 1

Small Mexican spot inside a produce store serves phenomenal al pastor and best carne asada tacos with delicious made-to-order tamales. Casual vibe with indoor and outdoor seating fits quick, satisfying meals at great prices.

Tamales are delicious and made to order, served hot alongside tacos. They come in a moderate size and are both tasty and filling.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is fantastic and filling."

"I found the food here to be tasty and affordable."

"I found the tamales to be pretty delicious."

Good to know

1

The dinner combo meals provide enough food for 2-3 people.

2

Forty dollars can feed three people with two fresh smoothies and a gigantic horchata.

3

The restaurant has tables available both inside and outside.

14
Yolis Tamales image 1
Tamale shop

Small shop offers quick, no-frills service with mostly takeout and one waiting table. Tamales stand out for being hot and juicy, especially the green salsa chicken and red pork varieties. Quality varies, sometimes tamales are undercooked and soggy, affecting consistency.

Tamales come juicy and served hot, with green salsa chicken and red pork as notable options. Sizes are just right, avoiding dryness or being too small.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tamales, is juicy and served hot."

"These tamales are juicy, hot, and the perfect size."

Good to know

1

The shop is primarily for takeout, with limited seating available.

2

It is located right off the Western stop on the Orange line train station.

15
Taste of Peru image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Cozy space with authentic Peruvian decor and live Peruvian music sets a warm mood. Chicken tamales shine with rich flavor and come served hot. Family-friendly vibe makes it a great spot for enjoying nostalgic artwork and tasty traditional dishes.

Tamales come hot and delicious, with the chicken tamales standing out as a distinctive choice. The Peruvian style offers a rich flavor that many find memorable.

People are saying

"I found the Peruvian food here to be authentic and traditional."

"I loved the live music; it added to the pleasant atmosphere."

"I thought the Peruvian tamales were the best I had in Chicago."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

Expect longer wait times due to high demand and limited seating.

3

Portions are generous, typically around $20 per person.

16
Rico Fresh Market image 1

Spacious supermarket offers fresh produce and an authentic meat selection. Tamales shine as moist and flavorful alongside tacos and Chile rellenos. Friendly staff and upbeat music create a lively, welcoming atmosphere.

Tamales come in every variation, all moist, filling, and flavorful. They stand out as a top choice alongside tacos and Chile rellenos.

People are saying

"I found the grocery store prices to be fair and affordable."

"I loved the in-house taco shop at Rico Fresh Market."

"The tamales here are excellent, moist, filling, and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Rico Fresh Market offers a wide variety of fresh produce and Mexican pastries.

2

Prices at Rico Fresh Market are generally affordable compared to other stores.

3

The taqueria inside Rico Fresh Market serves excellent food.

17
Taqueria Tejupilco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cozy spot offers authentic Mexican food with a chill vibe. Tasty tamales shine alongside fresh tacos in a casual, affordable setting. Perfect for those craving flavorful dishes in a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere.

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.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious; I'd lick my fingers."

"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.

18
Café Fénix image 1

Small, colorful cafe offers flavorful chicken tamales with fresh masa and affordable prices. Cozy, intimate space filled with local artwork creates a welcoming vibe. Friendly team and community feel make it great for working or catching up.

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.

People are saying

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

"The chicken tamales here are excellent and flavorful."

"The staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

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.

19
Tio’s Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican spot shines with moist tamales like green chile chicken and red pork. Bright, clean decor creates a family-friendly vibe. Fresh, homemade salsas add a flavorful kick that keeps guests coming back.

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.

People are saying

"These tamales are so fluffy and flavorful."

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

"I loved the lemonade; it was so delicious."

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.

20
La Cebollita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot shines with fresh homemade tamales and a quiet breakfast atmosphere. Green tamales are especially tasty, paired well with crispy al pastor sopes. Space feels calm and inviting, perfect for casual meals with tender meat and golden textures.

Tamales come fresh and soft with full flavor. The green tamales stand out as especially tasty.

People are saying

"The al pastor sopes have tender, juicy meat with a hint of pineapple."

"I tasted the best tacos in Chicago."

"The tamales here are fresh, soft, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

La Cebollita offers authentic Mexican food, but it can be pricey.

2

Expect small serving sizes for the higher prices.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for diners.

21
Tasa Coffee Roasters image 1

Spacious coffee shop features on-site coffee roasting in a bright, airy space with plentiful outlets for work or socializing. Soft, flavorful tamales shine here, with larger tamales offering great value and taste. Stylish decor adds to the warm, welcoming vibe.

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

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.

22
Estrella Negra image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small space bursts with colorful local art and a lively vibe. Elote tamales shine with delicate masa and lime, offering creative vegan and classic pork options. Expect a vibrant atmosphere that feels like an underground art party.

Extremely good elote tamales stand out with their delicate masa and lime addition. Creative options include vegan spinach and artichoke and classic pork, all with incredible flavor.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic, delicious, and made with fresh ingredients."

"The elote tamales are the greatest thing I've ever had."

"I loved the creative cocktails here."

Good to know

1

Margaritas cost $7 on Tuesday nights.

2

Estrella Negra hosts lotería and brunch events regularly.

3

Live jazz band plays on the 4th Wednesday of each month.

23
El Milagro Tortillas image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic atmosphere with lively, warm details and a historic facade. Enjoy savory tamales like chicken and pork that taste like childhood memories. Portions are big and affordable, served cafeteria style with self-service ordering.

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.

People are saying

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

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

"I found the prices to be very affordable."

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.

24
Mis Tacos Mexican Food image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers fresh tamales that pair well with huevos rancheros and coffee. Spacious seating and a clean environment create a warm atmosphere. Affordable prices and a BYOB policy make it a great spot for tasty meals and good service.

Tamales come freshly made and taste good. They pair well with huevos rancheros and coffee, fitting into a meal with excellent service and atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be really tasty and delicious."

"The quesabirria tacos here are the best Mexican food I've had."

"I found the tamales here to be good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

An 18% mandatory gratuity is added for parties of three or more.

3

Parking is limited with only a few spots available in front.

25
Amatitlan image 1
Guatemalan restaurant

Cozy, family-run spot serves authentic Guatemalan cuisine with fresh tortillas and hearty tamales. Corn tamales shine with unique plum garnish and bold seasoning. Quiet, homey vibe makes it perfect for family-friendly dining despite tight space.

Corn tamales and Tamale Guatemalteca stand out with great seasoning and a unique garnish of plums. They remain tasty even with less meat and a higher price, making them a solid choice to bring home.

People are saying

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

"You've got to try the corn tamales; they're delicious."

"The tortillas here are soft, fluffy, and have excellent flavor."

Good to know

1

The menu offers a variety at reasonable prices, including ceviche and plantains.

2

The total cost for everything I ordered was $8.

3

The restaurant delivers, which is convenient for takeout.

26
La Biznaga image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers adorable decorations and a warm atmosphere. Chicken tamales are spicy and hot, balanced by fresh salad. Large seating fits families, with amazing tacos and lively, extra loud music.

Chicken tamales arrive hot and packed with spice and fiery heat. A salad helps balance the strong flavors.

People are saying

"You have to try the tacos; the al pastor and nopales are the best."

"I loved the authentic Mexican food, it was delicious and well seasoned."

"These chicken tamales are packed with spice."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special deals on tacos every Tuesday evening.

2

La Biznaga is a BYOB restaurant, so bring your own drinks.

3

The restaurant has a 3% surcharge added to the bill for tax and tip.

27
Tamaleria Lupita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small spot with fresh tamales shines for quick bites. Moist texture and great spice make red and green chicken tamales a must-try. Prices stay cash-friendly, and tamales sell out fast, showing strong local love.

Fresh and moist tamales stand out here, especially the red and green chicken varieties. They taste great, never dry, and come at a good price.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food, especially the tamales, to be delicious."

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

"I thought the tamales were delicious and well priced."

Good to know

1

Tamaleria Lupita opens very early, so arrive early for the best selection.

2

A half dozen tamales costs $8 when paying with cash.

3

They charge a bit more if I pay with a card.

28
Taco Moro image 1
Taco restaurant

Small space bursts with vibrant colors and lively 80s music videos. Corn tamales shine with rich flavor and a unique green tamale stands out. Authentic tacos and a comfortable setting make it a warm, welcoming spot.

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.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here serve the most delicious, authentic Mexican food."

"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.

29
El Taco Cart image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican spot buzzes with festive vibe and walls full of pictures. Chicken and pork tamales shine with verde sauce and pair well with taquitos. Music fuels an upbeat energy in a cozy space lit by candlelight.

Chicken and pork tamales come with verde sauce and deliver solid flavor. The tamales pair well with other items like taquitos and veggie quesadillas.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here tastes like Mexico, especially the steak tacos."

"It's the best late night spot for satisfying cravings after a night out."

"The pork tamales here are delicious."

Good to know

1

El Taco Cart is open late, making it ideal for late-night cravings.

2

Expect to pay around $5 for a taco, which some consider pricey.

3

The ingredients used are fresh, enhancing the quality of the food.

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