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San Antonio's best

Tamales and tortillas

A meal of tamales and fresh tortillas is a specific standard that requires a kitchen dedicated to the basics.

Based on 801 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
La Grande #5 image 1
La Grande #5 image 2
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Mexican restaurant

Small family-run Mexican restaurant offers a calm, family-oriented atmosphere with huge portions and clean kitchen. It operates only on weekends and features best barbacoa and tamales in town. Few booths provide seating for a slow, relaxed meal.

Thick tamales come in generous portions and taste fresh. Pork tamales stand out as a favorite dish with rich flavor.

Corn tortillas come with barbacoa tacos, often served in pairs to split. Both the tortillas and salsa stand out for their excellent quality.

People are saying

"The barbacoa here is tender and delicious Mexican food."

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The tortillas here are so good and reasonably priced."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open on weekends.

2

Expect large portion sizes for all menu items.

3

Children receive small toys with their meals.

02
Morenita Barbacoa image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, cluttered space with a cramped dining area and a casual, homey vibe. Cash-only spot known for authentic barbacoa, huge tamales, and flavorful menudo. Quiet early mornings with plenty of parking, often overlooked due to lack of signage.

Tamales come huge and very filling with lots of meat that is not blended. They offer a flavor and size close to homemade versions and provide good value for the price.

Fresh flour and corn tortillas come with meals and pair well with barbacoa and salsas. Tortillas are soft and served alongside big salsas and avocado.

People are saying

"These tamales are flavorful and packed with meat."

"I thought the salsa was the best I had."

"The tortillas here are fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is cash only, so stop at an ATM beforehand.

2

They are only open on weekends, so plan your visit accordingly.

3

Expect a late-night option as they stay open after 1pm.

03
Rios Southtown Barbacoa image 1

Cozy space with artsy decor and a welcoming atmosphere feels like a family gathering spot. The place serves moist, flavorful barbacoa and fresh tortillas, often running out of popular items early. Limited seating encourages quick visits or takeout, with a separate area offering coffee and drinks.

Tamales come with tasty flavor and pair well with barbacoa. Availability can vary, sometimes limiting orders to one portion.

Flour tortillas have great flavor and fresh texture. They taste delicious every time.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the barbacoa, is outstanding and not greasy."

"The barbacoa here is amazing, moist and not greasy."

"The barbacoa tamales are outstanding, not greasy, and have great flavor."

Good to know

1

A pound of barbacoa costs over $20, which some may find expensive.

2

No corn tortillas or salsa come with the order; they cost extra.

3

Barbacoa and menudo often run out by 10:30 A.M., so arrive early.

04
Olgitas Molino image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small dining space with just a few booths and tables creates a cozy setting. Loud fans contribute to a lively, bustling atmosphere as many linger and take up tables. Known for fresh handmade tortillas and exceptional barbacoa, it draws steady crowds despite limited seating.

Tamales have a buttery masa that stays moist and flavorful. They pair well with barbacoa and enchiladas, making them a popular choice for special holidays and year-round meals.

Freshly made tortillas melt in your mouth with a tender texture. Both corn and flour tortillas stand out for their exceptional quality and are often bought to go or for catering.

People are saying

"You have to try their homemade tortillas; they're so fresh and soft."

"The tamales here are great tasting, with masa like butter."

"The Carne Guisada here is so flavorful, it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours.

2

Parking can be scarce, so arrive early or consider alternative options.

3

You order before you sit down, which speeds up the process.

05
Victoria Tortilla & Tamales Factory image 1

Spacious takeout spot with a few tables and a small parking lot, often crowded with a fast-moving line. Atmosphere is busy and efficient, with a dedicated pickup line that eases wait times. Known for affordable prices, exceptional tamales and barbacoa, and a clean, well-organized environment.

Pork tamales stand out for their excellent flavor and quality. The tamales consistently pair well with barbacoa and flour tortillas, making them a popular choice for breakfast or any meal.

Flour and corn tortillas stand out for their quality and taste. Corn tortillas work well for enchiladas and barbacoa tacos, while flour tortillas come in large quantities and hold up well.

People are saying

"These tamales taste homemade and are delicious."

"The salsa here is delicious and well-seasoned."

"You have to try their barbacoa and tamales; the tortillas are excellent."

Good to know

1

The place is a stop-and-go spot without a seating area to dine in.

2

The price of $11.50 a dozen is very affordable.

3

Pickup is easy with a dedicated line and no wait.

06
La Calavera Garbancera image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with colorful, vibrant decor and authentic atmosphere reminiscent of Mexico City and traditional kitchens. Music adds to the lively, welcoming vibe that feels like stepping into a scene from a Coco movie. Regulars enjoy refreshing micheladas and delicious, authentic dishes like tacos and pozole.

House-made tamales stand out with red pork and green tamale options. They come with a variety of salsas and are served in generous portions.

Housemade tortillas come in both flour and corn varieties, with the flour tortillas earning approval for authenticity. They measure about 8 inches and add a special touch to tacos and other dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the tacos and tamales."

"The handmade corn tortillas here are bursting with flavor."

"The tamales here are amazing and made in-house."

Good to know

1

Karaoke starts at 5 PM and runs until closing.

2

Mixed drinks are available after 5 PM.

3

The restaurant offers authentic Mexican food made from scratch.

07
Papi's Barbacoa And Bakery image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with a lively, friendly atmosphere and a focus on family-owned community spirit. Known for excellent barbacoa and menudo, it operates mainly as a takeout spot with reasonable combo deals and a welcoming vibe.

Chicken and pork tamales have a sweet taste and come alongside barbacoa and menudo. They offer a tasty option that pairs well with other dishes like carnitas.

Flour tortillas come out thin and homemade tasting, with a fluffy, light texture. Corn tortillas are suavecitas and thin, making both types great for any meal.

People are saying

"The barbacoa here is outstanding Mexican food."

"The food here is delicious, especially the barbacoa."

"I thought the barbacoa and tamales were delicious."

Good to know

1

You can get a pound of barbacoa, 1 liter of soda, and tortillas for 20 dollars.

2

They offer a family deal that includes a pound of barbacoa, a liter of soda, and tortillas for 20 dollars.

3

They sold spices and salsas in mild, medium, and hot varieties.

08
La Monita Tortilleria image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, mom-and-pop Mexican spot offers authentic tamales and barbacoa with a clean, immaculate environment. Lines form early, especially on Sundays, but move quickly in this pickup-only setup. A lively vibe includes staff singing, adding a personal touch to the experience.

Tamales have a balanced amount of meat and are not overly salted. They taste best when hot and fresh, with excellent seasoning and consistent quality across visits.

Freshly made corn tortillas stand out with their authentic flavor and softness. Flour tortillas also impress with their excellent texture and taste.

People are saying

"I highly recommend the tamales here; they're the best in town."

"The barbacoa here melts in your mouth with fresh corn tortillas."

"I thought the BBQ here was the best."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45-minute to one-hour wait on Sundays due to high demand.

2

La Monita Tortilleria is a pickup-only place with no seating available.

3

Arrive early to avoid selling out of popular items.

09
Del Rio Tortilla Factory. image 1

Tamale shop with authentic Mexican flavor and spotless, orderly setting. Energy builds early as products sell out quickly, attracting a steady flow of customers. Known for best tamales and tortillas in the area, it operates as a takeout-only tortilleria with great parking nearby.

Pork tamales stay consistent and very tasty with a no-nonsense style. Prices come in better than most places while delivering delicious flavor that competes with any others.

Homemade tortillas come in both corn and flour varieties that reheat easily. They pair well with barbacoa and tamales, making them a consistent favorite for those dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the tamales here were the best in San Antonio."

"The tortillas here are soft and tasty."

"Their salsa was so fresh and really good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Reservations are not required, but calling ahead is recommended.

3

Expect to arrive early as they sell out of products quickly.

10
La Luz Tortilla Factory image 1

Tortilla shop with fresh, thin tortillas and flavorful barbacoa that avoids greasiness. Atmosphere stays clean and straightforward, attracting those who appreciate authentic tamales and menudo rich in pozole and meat.

Pork tamales have lots of filling and a great flavor in the meat. Masa is not thick, making the tamales feel lighter.

Fresh, tasty tortillas come from this spot, with both flour and corn varieties standing out. The tortillas are reasonably priced and consistently good enough to draw visitors from Mexico and satisfy grandkids alike.

People are saying

"The tamales here are excellent, especially the pork ones."

"I found the tortillas here to be the best in San Antonio."

"The tamales here are flavorful and not greasy."

Good to know

1

The amount of food for the price is very reasonable.

2

They took Google Pay.

3

They offer both types of tortillas.

11
Pepe's Barbacoa image 1
Tamale shop

Small take-out spot with a family-owned and homey atmosphere. Known for fresh barbacoa and tamales served with corn tortillas and hot sauce. Cash-only and accessible, it draws those seeking authentic flavors in modest portions.

Tamales come out delicious and on point here, especially the barbacoa tamales. Many find them the best compared to other spots.

Barbacoa comes with all-meat filling served in both flour and corn tortillas. Corn tortillas are consistently good and fresh, pairing well with the hot sauce and salsa.

People are saying

"I thought the barbacoa was the best Mexican food I'd had in years."

"The barbacoa and corn tortillas here are amazing."

"I thought the tamales here were the best."

Good to know

1

Pepe's Barbacoa accepts only cash; ATMs are available nearby.

2

They open as early as 6:50 AM on weekends.

3

The price is $10 for half a pound and $17.95 for 1 pound.

12
Pepe's Molino image 1
Tamale shop

Barbacoa stands out with exceptional flavor and is served hot alongside fresh tamales rich in meat. Green salsa adds a distinctive complement to dishes, while menudo offers a hearty, traditional taste. Prices remain affordable for the quality provided.

Tamales come fresh and flavorful with pork and chicarron options standing out. They are not greasy and have balanced seasoning, making them enjoyable alongside barbacoa.

Tortillas come nice and hot with meals. Both flour and corn tortillas are served in combos that include meats and tamales.

People are saying

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

"The tamales here are so good and fresh."

"The tortillas here are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak dining hours to avoid long waits.

2

The restaurant offers a daily happy hour from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

3

Parking is available on-site, but fills up quickly during weekends.

13
Con Amor Cocina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a homey atmosphere with cozy decor and a family-oriented vibe. The space feels quiet and welcoming, with ceiling fans helping to keep it comfortable despite some warmth. Self-seating and fast casual setup create a relaxed, unpretentious environment.

Pork tamales come with rich filling and pair well with coffee. They often arrive alongside stuffed chilaquiles, making a hearty combo.

Corn tortillas taste excellent and feel homemade, with some stuffed with cheese for extra flavor. Flour tortillas also taste house made and pair well with tacos and caldos.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and amazing."

"The homemade flour tortillas tasted so good."

"I found the tamales here to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in front of the restaurant and along the side street.

2

They charge a fee for credit card payments.

3

All food is made fresh daily, so expect some wait time for orders.

14
Alamo Molino image 1
Mexican restaurant

Barbacoa tacos stand out with generous portions and exceptional flavor, paired with freshly made corn tortillas. Menudo offers a hearty, comforting broth that suits morning or recovery meals. Tamales are large and well-filled, balancing spice and moist masa without dryness.

Big tamales come packed with full pork filling and a little spice that gives a holiday feeling. The masa is excellent, not dry or gritty, making the tamales taste great and reasonably priced.

Freshly made corn tortillas stand out and pair well with dishes like barbacoa and tamales. The tortillas consistently taste very good and add to the overall flavor experience.

People are saying

"The barbacoa here is so tender and flavorful."

"These pork tamales are big, full of meat, and taste great."

"The menudo's broth is hearty, rich, and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

The Alamo Molino closes at 3 pm on Sundays.

2

Barbacoa tacos are available for only 3 dollars.

3

Menudo is known as a cure for hangovers.

15
Los Hermanos Barbacoa image 1

Tamale shop offers big, flavorful tamales and spot-on barbacoa with a quiet, early closing atmosphere. Customers often preorder to avoid sellouts, and the place includes free beans with meat orders. The vibe is calm with no lines, reflecting a steady, prepared service.

Tamales come packed with generous meat fillings and rich flavors. They taste like homemade versions and stand out as very flavorful and enjoyable.

Tortillas here vary from homemade and excellent to ones that look store-bought and warmed in the microwave. They are generally serviceable but not always handmade.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and fresh."

"I found the tamales here to be the best I've ever had."

"The tortillas here were not handmade and looked store-bought."

Good to know

1

They offer free beans with a pound of meat or a regular portion.

2

They do sell out of tamales, but preordering in person is available.

3

They close at 3 PM, so plan your visit accordingly.

16
Tortilleria La Grande image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican eatery offers homemade tortillas and large, flavorful tamales with generous meat portions. Atmosphere feels like visiting family, with affordable prices and specials that support budgets. It operates as a takeout spot, known for exceptional barbacoa and authentic pairings like Big Red soda.

Tamales here are large and meaty with a flavor that stands out. They come with green salsa that complements the taste well, and the price is reasonable for the quality and size.

Homemade tortillas come fresh off the grill, with corn tortillas available in small sizes and served two per order. Flour tortillas use high-quality flour made elsewhere, and the tortillas pair well with seasoned meats like barbacoa and fresh salsa.

People are saying

"I found the tamales here to be pretty delicious."

"The green salsa was a bit spicy and complemented the tamales."

"I loved the barbacoa and salsa with the tortillas."

Good to know

1

This place is not a dine-in restaurant.

2

The fresh batch of corn tortillas is only available on Thursdays.

3

The price for a dozen tamales is $17.

17
Tamalitos image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with a cozy atmosphere and beautiful interior offers a relaxing vibe enhanced by music. It serves authentic Mexican food with large portions and reasonable prices. The place stays clean and well kept, creating a comfortable dining experience.

Tamales here are big, moist, and flavorful, not the typical skinny style. Bean tamales stand out as fantastic and delicious, often served in a plate with cheese enchilada, rice, and beans.

Homemade flour tortillas come out hot and fluffy. They stay soft and light, making them great for tacos or buying by the dozen.

People are saying

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

"The homemade tortillas are soft and fluffy."

"It's a neighborhood spot with plenty of parking available."

Good to know

1

Parking at Tamalitos is limited, which may be a drawback during busy hours.

2

Tamalitos offers daily specials that are posted on a board.

3

The restaurant has a reputation for cleanliness, including well-maintained bathrooms.

18
Adelita Tamales & Tortilla image 1

Stone-ground corn masa and scratch-made tortillas define the space, reflecting authentic Tex-Mex tradition. The atmosphere is calm with short lines, offering fresh tamales, barbacoa, and healthy food options. Regulars come for consistent quality and generations-old recipes.

Tamales here have a well-balanced masa-to-meat ratio and come fresh with great flavor. The pork and chicken varieties stand out for being not greasy and holding together well without falling apart.

Freshly made tortillas stand out for their excellent quality and delicious flavor. Mini tortillas add a fun twist, and corn tortillas consistently impress with their taste and texture.

People are saying

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

"I got some bean and cheese tacos for my son."

"I found the corn tortillas here to be fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

Barbacoa is served daily, making it a popular choice.

2

Tamales are available for $12.25 per dozen, a reasonable price.

3

Masa for tortillas and tamales can be purchased here.

19
La Bandera Molino image 1
Mexican restaurant

Crowded space filled with authentic Mexican food and kitchen items like molcajetes and tortilla presses. Atmosphere feels like stepping into Mexico, lively and rich with tradition. Known for excellent barbacoa, homemade tortillas, and a wide variety of Mexican products.

Tamales here come out delicious and perfectly made. Some uncertainty exists about whether they are machine made.

Freshly made tortillas come in both flour and corn varieties, pairing well with dishes like barbacoa and potato with egg. The spot also offers tortilla presses and molcajetes for making salsa at home.

People are saying

"The barbacoa here is perfectly juicy and delicious."

"The tortillas here are delicious, thin flour or tasty corn."

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

Good to know

1

The place offers a wide variety of authentic Mexican food and products.

2

Expect a crowded atmosphere, especially during peak hours.

3

Cash is preferred for purchases; credit cards may not be accepted.

20
Magy's Tamales & Barbacoa image 1

Simple Mexican eatery offers a comfortable, welcoming atmosphere with a homemade, authentic flavor. The space feels like a hidden gem with affordable prices and a lively yet relaxed vibe. It serves highly recommended tamales and barbacoa with options for customization and both dine-in and takeout.

Tamales here are consistently moist and delicious, with two distinct types that stand out. They pair well with barbacoa and tacos, making them a solid choice for any meal.

Soft, corn tortillas come out really fresh and delicious. Some tacos use a very thin, hard flour tortilla, while others have two soft corn tortillas with cilantro and onion.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the barbacoa and tamales."

"These tamales are delicious and moist."

"The barbacoa here is great, and the tortillas are excellent."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, and walk-ins are welcome.

2

Prices are reasonable, making it an affordable dining option.

3

Takeout is available, and the restaurant is good for quick meals.

21
Martinez Barbacoa Y Tamales image 1
Mexican restaurant

Cozy Mexican restaurant offers authentic barbacoa and tamales with generous portions at affordable prices. The atmosphere is quiet and welcoming, with no English spoken, emphasizing a traditional experience. It operates only on weekends and attracts early crowds due to fast sales.

Tamales come fresh and packed with flavor, often served alongside barbacoa and chicharrones. Options include pork and beans, and they pair well with corn and flour tortillas.

Machine made tortillas come with barbacoa deals, including both corn and flour tortillas. Corn tortillas stand out as delicious and often accompany meals with salsa and drinks.

People are saying

"These tamales are some of the best I've had in years."

"I got a great deal with my barbacoa, including salsa."

"I tried their barbacoa and it was always delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is only open on weekends.

2

Martinez Barbacoa Y Tamales opens early on Sundays.

3

Parking is available in the back with security cameras.

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