San Antonio’s Top 10 Tamales: A Culinary Celebration
Welcome to the lively city of San Antonio, where food has a way of bringing people together, and nothing says togetherness quite like tamales. From breakfast to dinner, these delicious bundles of masa and filling are more than just a meal; they’re a heartfelt tradition tied to family memories and special occasions. And around here, it seems like every neighborhood has a little spot where people will stand in line just to get their hands on the best tamales in town.
What Makes Tamales a San Antonio Staple
For many families, preparing tamales isn’t just about enjoying a meal; it’s an annual labor of love. Generations gather for the beloved tradition of a tamalada, where together they stuff, fold, and steam hundreds of these comforting parcels. Paul Stephen, a local food writer, took on the challenge of listing the Top 10 Tamales in San Antonio. After visiting nearly 30 spots and tasting close to 100 different varieties, he’s ready to share the best of the best.
The Countdown Begins!
In no particular order, here are some must-try places for tamales:
- Delicious Tamales Factory #3: Don’t be fooled; while its name sounds familiar, this location is separate from the Delicious Tamales chain. With a quirky vibe and standouts like bean and jalapeño tamales, this spot is worth the trip. Located at 3500 S Presa St.
- Victoria Tortilla & Tamales Factory: Known for its fantastic pork tamales, their blend of masa and meat creates a delightful bite. This spot is located at 737 Division Ave.
- Del Rio Tortilla Factory: You can’t miss the bright yellow building on Gillette Boulevard. Their tamales boast a perfect masa-to-filling ratio, and the pork variety is particularly good! Check it out at 1402 Gillette Blvd.
- Alfonso’s Tamales: Situated near Loop 410, this shop offers both frozen and hot hand-made tamales. Don’t miss the unique cheese and jalapeño flavors, which pack a punch. Find it at 2000 SE Loop 410 Access Road.
- Viva Vegeria: Vegan tamales, anyone? Their delicious Tres Hermanas tamales made with corn, beans, and squash prove that plant-based options can be equally satisfying. Visit this location at 1422 Nogalitos St.
- Ruben’s Homemade Tamales: This long-standing neighborhood spot is famous for its pork tamales, which have a light, fluffy masa. Head over to 1807 Rigsby Ave for a treat that’s been satisfying families for decades.
- Adelita Tamales & Tortilla Factory: Not only known for its amazing tamales, but Adelita also serves some of the best tortillas in town, thanks to their stone-ground corn. Stop by at 1130 Fresno Dr.
- Téllez Tamales & Barbacoa: With two locations, this family-run establishment has lots of customer loyalty, and their meaty tamales with a kick of spice are worth the wait! Head over to 1737 S. General McMullen Drive.
- Delia’s Tamales: Despite some recent controversy, Delia’s continues to be a popular spot for its extensive tamal selection, including the special Veracruzano-style wrapped in banana leaves. Visit them at 13527 Hausman Pass.
- Tamale Boy Tacos & Tamales: With a founder who got into the tamale business at age five, Tamale Boy offers classic and creative variations, including the standout Kadillak tamale. Located at 5300 S. Flores St.
A Taste of Tradition
In San Antonio, tamales are much more than food; they’re an infusion of culture and memories. As families gather around the dinner table or in the kitchen, the aroma of steaming tamales often brings back fond recollections of years gone by. So next time you’re in the mood for something that’s not just a meal but a delicious slice of local history, head over to one of these lively spots and indulge in some of San Antonio’s finest tamales. Happy eating!
