‘Tis the season… for tamales in the 210. The traditional Mesoamerican dish made of masa has become a staple in the Alamo City. As a Creative City of Gastronomy, food here is celebrated as an integral competent of our culture.

Tamales are no exception to the local culinary heritage that has made San Antonio such a remarkable city with a vibrant food scene that is second to none—craving this puro SATX dish? Here are a few places where you can find great tamales in San Antonio.  

Downtown San Antonio

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Whether you’re trying to catch the boat caroling on the River Walk or simply want to take in the holiday lights, downtown San Antonio is a must-visit spot in the winter.

But while you’re in the area, don’t miss Historic Market Square to score some tamales at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería. This San Antonio staple is a must for the holidays. Or you can head just a bit further north to check out the 210’s oldest Mexican restaurant serving up the classic dish, La Fonda on Main or the 85 year old family-owned business Adelita Tamales & Tortilla Factory

Despite its name, La Luz Tortilla Factory serves much more than just tortillas. Have your pick of handmade tamales, barbacoa and menudo on the weekends.

While you’re there, check out the soda special; never pass up Big Red and barbacoa in the 210. For unique flavors, Tamahli offers a wide variety of fresh-to-order traditional, sweet, banana leaf wrapped and gourmet tamales. Don’t skip out on the champurrado here.

Family-owned since 1975, Tellez Tamales has been serving up traditional handmade tamales, barbacoa and menudo on the West Side. Whether you prefer savory pork tamales or the satisfying spice of a jalapeño and cheese filling, Tellez Tamales offers an array of options to satisfy every palate. Or just minutes away from Woodlawn Lake Park, you can’t go wrong with is Martinez Barbacoa Y Tamales.  

Founded nearly 30 years ago in the Rio Grande Valley, Delia's Tamales finally made its mark in San Antonio in July of 2020.

The family-owned establishment set up shop on the Far Northwest Side, located near other popular restaurants and shopping hubs like The Shops at La Cantera and The Rim. The perfected family recipe and commitment to quality make this tamale haven a must-visit. 

Whether you prefer them hot or cold, you can’t go wrong with the made-from-scratch plates from Delicious Tamales Factory.

If this spot is too far out, you can choose from its other five locations around the Alamo City. Camila’s Mexican Restaurant is bringing even more options to the 210, with the addition of its newest to-go location in Selma.  

Need some tamales to go? Tamale Boy Tacos and Tamales has been dishing out delicious food for over 20 years in the Southside.

If you’re looking for plant-based options, Viva Vegeria has you covered with tasty vegan takes on the classic dish. But if tradition is what you’re looking for, Ruben's Homemade Tamales has become a mainstay for generations of San Antonians.