The 12 Tamales to Enjoy in Texas

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Texas is known for many things, and one of them is its mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine. Among the numerous delicacies that grace Texan tables, tamales hold a special place. These little pockets of joy, filled with various savory or sweet fillings, are a treat for the taste buds. In this article, we'll take you on a culinary tour of the top 12 tamale joints in the Lone Star State. Each of these establishments has a unique quality that sets their tamales apart, making them a must-visit for any Texan foodie.

Alamo Tamales

Alamo Tamale is known for their awesome tamales that have people flocking from all over for their classic Mexican staple. They craft exceptional tamales that captivate with their rich heritage and bold flavors. Rooted in authentic Tex-Mex tradition, their tamales feature hand-selected ingredients, slow-cooked fillings, and a secret blend of spices. These mouthwatering delicacies deliver an unforgettable taste of the Lone Star State.

Address: 809 Berry Rd, Houston, TX 77022
Contact: (713) 692-6363

Joe T. Garcia'

Best known for their simplicity and sticking to culinary tradition that was passed down to them, Joe T. Garcia's tamales are all about the basics - tender meat, fluffy masa, and a dash of tradition. Sometimes, it's the uncomplicated ones that steal the show.

Address: 2201 Commerce St, Fort Worth, TX 76161
Contact: (817) 626-4356

Delia's Tamales

Delia's Tamales is a renowned homegrown tamale chain celebrated for its exceptional, time-honored recipes. Meticulously prepared, their tamales boast a rich tapestry of flavors and textures. Delia's dedication to using the finest ingredients, paired with generations of expertise, yields mouthwatering tamales that delight patrons with each savory bite.

Address: 106 Nolana Loop, San Juan, TX 78589

Contact: (956) 961-4565   

Gloria's Latin Cuisine

Gloria's Tamales are a testament to how Texas has embraced fusion cuisine from this local food chain. Their Salvadoran twist on the Tex-Mex classic creates a unique, unforgettable taste experience. Their tamales are uniquely wrapped and served in banana leaves where it’s spiced and stuffed with potatoes, bell peppers, and flavorful chicken.

Address: 13527 Hausman Pass, San Antonio, TX 78249

Contact: (210) 864-1111

Rosie's Tamale House

Rosie's Tamale House in Austin offers an authentic Mexican dining experience. Their menu offers classic tamales packed with pork and uses a recipe that sticks to the tradition of this wonderful Mexican delicacy. With a cozy and inviting ambiance, it's a popular spot for locals and visitors seeking traditional tamales in the heart of Texas.

Address: 13436 State Hwy 71, Austin, TX 78738
Contact: (512) 263-5245

Tommy Tamale Market & Cafe

Tommy Tamale elevates the art of corn-husk wrapped delights to perfection. Nestled in (location), this cozy eatery is renowned for its heavenly tamales. Crafted with love and tradition, each bite bursts with flavorful fillings and tender masa. At Tommy Tamale, they've mastered the art of these pocket-sized parcels, making it a must-visit for every tamale enthusiast.

Address: 1689 W Northwest Hwy, Grapevine, TX 76051

Contact: (817) 360-6385

Pennie’s Tex Mex Take Out

Pennie’s Tex Mex Take Out offers an experience of a tantalizing journey of taste of Tex Mex classics like nachos, tacos, and, of course, the classic tamale. Their tamales, filled with exquisite flavors and wrapped in tender masa, are truly magical.

Address: 1713 37th St, Galveston, TX 77550
Contact: (409) 765-5719

Tamaleria Nuevo Leon

At Taqueria Nuevo Leon, the art of tamale-making takes center stage. These tamales are extraordinary, a harmonious blend of traditional recipes and innovative flavors. Each tamale is a pocket of delight, with fillings that range from classic to unexpected and there are even vegan options. Savor the rich, tender masa, expertly steamed to perfection.

Address: 2139 Buckingham Rd, Richardson, TX 75081

Contact: (972) 685-6556

La Hacienda Ranch

La Hacienda Ranch is a tamale lover’s stop over when sampling the best tamales Texas has to offer. The tamales from this reputable local Tex-Mex chain are nothing short of culinary magic, featuring handcrafted masa filled with an array of savory and exotic fillings. From the classic pork and chicken to unique options like roasted poblano and pineapple salsa, every tamale is a work of art. 

Address: 4110 Preston Rd, Frisco, TX 75034
Contact: (972) 335-2232

Pepe’s Tamales

Pepe's Tamales in El Paso is a culinary treasure for tamale aficionados. They boast a diverse menu with tamales as their main-stays. These tamales are nothing short of awesome, with a balanced blend of savory fillings and flavorful masa. A visit to Pepe's promises an authentic tamale experience as well as other options for Tex-Mex favorites..

Address: 9530 Viscount Blvd, El Paso, TX 79925

Contact: (915) 591-7949

La Nortena Tamale Factory

If you’re ever in Pecos, Texas and are on the lookout for a quick snack or just out on a tamale tour of Texas, check out La Nortena Tamale Factory. They have different fillings for their tamales and it’s a-must to try out one of each. And after gorging yourself with their tasty tamales, also try their burritos.

Address: 211 E 3rd St, Pecos, TX 79772

Contact: (432) 445-3273

Las Palmas

Las Palmas is known for their delicious, homemade tamales. The pork and chicken tamales are top choices, and their spicy salsa provides the perfect zing. This family-owned establishment brings a taste of Mexico to Dallas not only through their tamales but other classic dishes as well..

Address: 2708 Routh St, Dallas, TX 75201
Contact: (214) 647-1232

Conclusion

Texan tamales are a gastronomic treasure, and these 20 tamale joints offer unique experiences that showcase the diversity, creativity, and tradition of Tex-Mex cuisine. Whether you prefer classic or innovative, meaty or vegetarian, sweet or spicy, these tamale spots have something for everyone. So, embark on a tamale-tasting adventure and savor the flavors that make Texas a true culinary paradise.

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