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Best of Tennessee

Authentic tamales

You are looking for tamales made with the kind of tradition that does not cut corners.

Based on 641 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chulitos panaderia y taqueria image 1
Chulitos panaderia y taqueria image 2
Chulitos panaderia y taqueria image 3
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Large cases showcase authentic Mexican bread and pastries in a clean, warmly decorated space with a painted mural. The atmosphere feels quiet and inviting, resembling a true neighborhood spot. Tacos and baked goods offer genuine flavors that reflect Mexican traditions.

Raja tamales stand out as a favorite, with tamales generally described as delicious and paired well with corn atole. The tamales hold their own alongside other dishes like birria and tongue tacos.

Tacos and burritos have authentic flavors that reflect traditional Mexican recipes. Sweet breads and pastries offer excellent authentic taste that stands out.

People are saying

"The tacos here are packed with authentic flavor."

"The bakery here is amazing, with a huge variety of delicious pastries."

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

Good to know

1

The bakery opens at 7 AM for early risers.

2

Chulitos offers both eat-in and take-away options.

3

Expect large portions for all menu items.

02
Frida's Café image 1
Restaurant

Colorful decor features original murals and a bubbling water fixture that create a warm, inviting atmosphere with quiet music. The space feels cozy and picturesque, encouraging long, relaxed meals. It offers an authentic Mexican vibe that stands out among similar restaurants.

Tamales here stand out for their homemade quality and consistent taste. They serve as a reliable go-to, with options available for takeout that maintain their flavor.

Food features fresh ingredients and authentic Mexican flavors. Drinks include orange juice with real pulp that complements the genuine atmosphere.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and authentic."

"I loved the authentic Mexican breakfast and lunch food."

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

Good to know

1

Online ordering is available and encouraged to minimize wait times.

2

Prices are reasonable and reflect the quality of the food.

3

The café offers a unique twist on traditional Mexican breakfast dishes.

03
Mi Pueblito Cafetería & Pupusaria image 1

Hole-in-the-wall Salvadoran restaurant offers a clean, cozy atmosphere with loud reggaeton and Mexican music. The vibe feels authentic and home-like, attracting those seeking traditional pupusas and indigenous Central American dishes.

Soft tamales come stuffed with stewed meat and potato or yuca. Chicken tamales stand out for their flavor. Corn tamales offer an optional dip and a tomato-based sauce that appeals even to kids.

Food features authentic Salvadoran flavors with fresh ingredients and homemade horchata made from scratch. Pupusas and other dishes deliver a home-like, traditional taste.

People are saying

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

"This place is so Kid Friendly, my son requested it for his birthday."

"The tamales here are delicious and some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Soups are available on Fridays and weekends, offering a unique taste.

2

The restaurant accepts to-go orders for those who prefer dining at home.

3

Credit cards and cash are accepted; no personal checks.

04
Emanuel Restaurante Latino image 1

Rustic space with authentic Central American decor creates a homey and comfortable atmosphere filled with smiles and laughter. The vibe stays quiet but welcoming, attracting those who appreciate genuine Latin flavors. Absence of alcohol and focus on fresh, handmade dishes set it apart from other local spots.

Guatemalan tamales and potato Pache tamales stand out for their rich flavors. Chicken tamales come well cooked and tasty.

Food offers authentic Guatemalan and Mexican flavors with genuine preparation. Decor and atmosphere reflect a family-owned, authentic vibe with friendly service.

People are saying

"The food here is so authentic and delicious, it feels like home."

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

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

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have an alcohol license, so no cold beers are available.

2

Emanuel Restaurante Latino offers authentic Guatemalan and El Salvadorian dishes.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

05
Limo Peruvian Eatery image 1
Peruvian restaurant

Small dining area with modern bright design and Peruvian vibes creates a casual, welcoming atmosphere. Guests enjoy refreshing Pisco sours and authentic Peruvian dishes like ceviche and tiradito. Seating includes uncomfortable steel chairs, and no outdoor space is available.

Moist and crumbly masa fills the tamales, seasoned with beef renderings or tender pork. Each tamale comes with fantastic house-made sauces that enhance the rich flavors.

Peruvian dishes here deliver authentic flavors with every bite. The menu features traditional recipes that stay true to classic Peruvian cuisine.

People are saying

"I found the food to be the most delicious I had ever tasted."

"The authentic Peruvian food here is fresh and full of flavor."

"The tamales here are so moist and flavorful, especially the beef."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm daily.

2

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant features a diverse menu with authentic Peruvian dishes.

06
The Taco Shop image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant inside a gas station offers a clean, upbeat environment with authentic Mexican vibes and chill atmosphere. The place draws families and travelers with its strong aroma and lively music. Known for exceptional birria tacos and pizza, it stands out as a top spot for genuine Mexican flavors.

Chicken tamales stand out with authentic flavors and fresh ingredients. They come alongside other favorites like quesabirria and fresh-fried chips with queso.

High quality, well prepared Mexican food shines here with authentic street tacos and flavorful tamales. The menu stays true to traditional recipes, delivering consistently authentic flavors.

People are saying

"The birria pizza here is crispy, cheesy, and packed with flavor."

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

"I found the tamales spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers tacos for $1.50 each from 2-5pm.

2

The restaurant is located inside a gas station, which may be easy to miss.

3

Each serving is large enough to feed multiple people.

07
Los Primos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Dining area inside a supermarket offers a cozy, small space with at most eight tables and Latin music playing. The atmosphere feels authentic and casual, attracting those seeking genuine Mexican flavors and fresh baked goods. Soccer games on TV add to the lively, familiar vibe.

Tamales come in a Northern Mexican style, thick and never dry. They stay fresh and flavorful, especially the birria tamales which stand out as top notch.

Authentic Mexican food shines here with authentic tacos and a legit Mexican grocery feel. The place offers a cultural experience true to traditional taquerias.

People are saying

"The street tacos here have great flavor and generous portions."

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

"The tamales here are fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant gets busy at lunchtime, so expect wait times.

2

Los Primos offers 100% authentic Mexican food with generous portions.

3

It's best for takeout during peak hours due to limited seating.

08
Talpa Supermercados - Nashville image 1

Supermarket offers authentic Latin foods with labels in both Spanish and English. Energetic music plays loudly, creating a lively shopping atmosphere. Food court includes fresh tamale station and cooked food pods, making it convenient for quick meals.

Fresh homemade tamales come from a little tamale station that offers great convenience. The masa is notably good, making the tamales delicious and satisfying alongside other prepared foods.

Hot food in the deli offers authentic Mexican dishes that satisfy. The meat department stocks traditional cuts for carne asada and other recipes. A cafe inside serves reasonably priced, genuine Mexican meals alongside Hispanic ingredients and products.

People are saying

"This grocery store is an excellent option with a large selection."

"I thought the prepared food here was authentic and delicious."

"I found the authentic Mexican food here to be the real deal."

Good to know

1

Meat prices at Talpa Supermercados are half of what Publix charges.

2

The food is labeled in both Spanish and English, aiding non-bilingual shoppers.

3

The store is well-stocked with a variety of Latin American products.

09
Alex's Tacos And Wings #3 image 1
Mexican restaurant

Refurbished corner tables with high backs create cozy small group dining spaces in a clean, updated setting. The atmosphere feels relaxed and welcoming, suited for sharing meals. Wings and street tacos stand out as particularly flavorful offerings.

Tamales cook low and slow, delivering a rich flavor with a mix of red and green sauce on top. They taste fresh and authentic, matching well with homemade tortillas.

Homemade tortillas and authentic tamales stand out with fresh flavor. The buffet offers delicious authentic Mexican food consistently.

People are saying

"The Mexican food buffet here is delicious and authentic."

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

"These tamales taste so fresh and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The buffet is first come, first serve, so arrive early for the best selection.

2

Prices are very affordable, with meals costing around $40 for a family of five.

3

The restaurant offers a wide variety of food options, including a Mexican buffet on weekdays.

10
Garden Fresh Food Market image 1

Grocery store combines wide variety of Latin and Asian products with a well-organized layout and fresh produce. Atmosphere feels welcoming and fun, enhanced by an in-store restaurant serving highly praised birria tacos and other hot foods. Prices remain affordable while maintaining cleanliness and good stock levels.

Huge tamales come at a $2 price on Thursdays. They stand out as the tastiest in Madison with a flavor that earns a mic drop reaction.

Freshness stands out with authentic Mexican food including tacos and enchiladas. A full Spanish and Mexican food bar offers options for takeout or dining in.

People are saying

"The tacos al pastor were cooked on a trompo and totally delicious."

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

"I considered the tamales to be the tastiest in Madison."

Good to know

1

On Thursdays, they offer huge tamales for only $2.

2

The market has a great selection of Latin products.

3

Expect a clean and well-stocked store during your visit.

11
Sabor Latino Restaurante y Pupuseria image 1

Colorful interior design features vibrant paintings and a clean, family-like atmosphere with quiet surroundings. An ice cream shop inside adds a unique touch to the space. Music tends to be loud Christian songs, which can affect the mood for some diners.

Chicken tamales vary, with some lacking flavor and meat, even containing a whole chicken wing. Tamales de elote frito stand out as a distinctive option alongside pupusas and horchata.

Offers authentic Salvadoran flavor with dishes like pupusas and baleadas that taste genuine and delicious.

People are saying

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

"The food here is delicious and has an authentic Salvadoran flavor."

"I found the tamales here to be excellent."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 55 minutes for food during busy periods.

2

The restaurant offers a unique menu featuring Salvadoran and other Central American dishes.

3

Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

12
Pupuseria La Esquina image 1
Salvadoran restaurant

Small, compact dining space offers an intimate setting with a focus on authentic Salvadoran cuisine. The atmosphere is casual and unassuming, with a mix of Spanish spoken. Pupusas and tamales stand out as popular, flavorful dishes.

Corn tamales stand out with their delicious flavor and are part of a menu that includes pupusas and other dishes from various countries.

Small and unassuming spot serving authentic Salvadorian food. Offers a wonderful taste of traditional dishes.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious."

"I loved the authentic pupusas and tacos; they were so fresh."

"I found the tamales and pupusas delicious."

Good to know

1

They offer a variety of dishes including tamales, pupusas, and hamburgers.

2

A bit of spoken Spanish is helpful for better communication.

3

The eatery is small and unassuming, providing an authentic experience.

13
El Cubilete image 1
Mexican restaurant

Former fast food space offers authentic Mexican atmosphere with a family-like vibe and homecooked aromas. Strong, flavorful margaritas complement generous portions of traditional dishes. Cleanliness stands out amid casual, lively surroundings.

Tamales come with dry texture and can be served with shredded pork if requested. Opinions on them vary from amazing to just okay considering the price.

True authentic Mexican flavors shine in every dish, paired with a very authentic atmosphere that complements the food. The menu offers great selections that stay faithful to traditional recipes.

People are saying

"The fajitas here are amazing and generously portioned."

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

"I always ask for extra sour cream with my tamales."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers large portions at reasonable prices.

2

The food menu has a vast selection of authentic Mexican dishes.

3

Takeout is available if you prefer to eat elsewhere.

14
Reyes Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with clean, inviting decor and a classy, comfortable atmosphere. Music volume varies from relaxing to loud traditional Mexican, affecting conversation. Features a salsa bar and handmade corn tortillas prepared in view.

Tamales come with red sauce or plain, often paired with other dishes like bean and cheese burritos. The masa has a soapy taste, and the shredded chicken inside lacks flavor.

Food offers authentic Mexican flavors with a focus on traditional recipes. The experience matches the genuine taste, delivering delicious, true-to-origin dishes.

People are saying

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

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

"I thought the tamales were great."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Sunday, starting at 8pm with no cover charge.

2

Chips cost $4.99 after the first order, so plan accordingly.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

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