Here Are 10 Places In Arizona To Get The Best Tamales
By Monica Spencer|Published December 22, 2016
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Monica Spencer
Author
Monica is a Diné (Navajo) freelance writer and photographer based in the Southwest. Born in Gallup and raised in Phoenix, she is Tódich'ii'nii (Bitter Water People) and Tsi'naajinii (Black Streak Wood People). Monica is a staff writer for Only In Your State, photo editor for The Mesa Legend, and previously a staff writer for The Navajo Post. You can reach her at monica.d.spencer@gmail.com.
There’s no experience more disappointing than unwrapping a corn husk to find a dry, tasteless tamale. I’ve had my fair share and while you can try reviving it with some sauce and cheese, the masa remains dry, the filling bland, and will overall just leave you with a disillusioned view in trying to find delicious Mexican food away from home.
Don’t fret! We’ve compiled a list of some restaurants around the state that offer deliciously moist, flavorful tamales that will have your taste buds screaming in delight. Check them out!
But, first, let's give a shout out to all the amazing tamales you can find cooking in your mom or grandma's kitchens, and those sold by your local tamale lady/man in a store parking lot.
One of the oldest restaurants in Arizona is also home to some delicious, handmade tamales. They’re just what you expect: hot, moist, flavorful, and with plenty of savory filling.
This copper country favorite consistently serves delicious dishes, including tasty tamales. Order them as part of a combo plate or just a plate of two or three!
This restaurant recently relocated and got quite the makeover but you’ll still find some amazingly moist tamales here. You know these are the real deal because the restaurant serves them sauce-free unless you request it.
Yuma is home to many tasty Mexican restaurants and this one serves tamales that are soft, moist, savory, and even with a hint of sweetness to the masa. The only thing that makes these even better is just the right amount of red sauce on top.
These tamales are handmade with love from scratch and you can taste it! The restaurant is known for their green corn tamales but you can find a good variety of flavors here, including seasonal versions throughout the year.
Chilaquiles, burritos, huevos rancheros, tamales. Is there anything this restaurant can’t get right? Flagstaff has slim picking for quality Mexican food but you can definitely find a good meal here.
Gila Bend doesn’t get mentioned very often when it comes to delicious restaurants but this little place is one you shouldn’t miss. Their tamales are tasty and don’t skimp on the meat fillings!
Want only the best when it comes to your tamales? This shop is just the place! You’ll find a wide variety of tamales that are made by hand and range from spicy to sweet.
I don’t think this list would be complete without mentioning Tucson Tamale Company, which has three locations in the city and you can find a selection in quite a few grocery stores around the state. However, if you prefer your tamale fresh and piping hot, then try out one of their restaurants.
Address: 2545 East Broadway Boulevard, Tucson
Oh, my tummy is already rumbling just thinking of all those tamales. If you have a favorite place that you think Arizonans should try out, feel free to share it in the comments!
