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When you think of comfort food, you think of something hearty, filling, and typically homemade. Tamales are all of those things and then some. Made simply with masa harina (a corn-based dough), possibly some protein, cheese, or beans, and pressed into a corn husk to be steamed, these simple yet scrumptious portable pockets of deliciousness should become one of your comfort food staples. While making tamales from scratch can be a whole-day affair, check out these locations serving up some of the best tamales you can get around Metro Detroit…
GRAND AZTECA
Multiple locations in Metro Detroit
Grand Azteca is a family-owned spot renowned for its authentic Mexican cuisine, and its tamales are no exception. Prepared with traditional methods and ingredients, their tamales are a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to preserving the rich flavors of Mexican culinary traditions. Whether you prefer your tamales filled with shredded chicken, ground beef, or savory vegetables, Grand Azteca offers a variety that caters to all tastes. Served with rice and beans, you can order two tamales as a combo, or add a shredded chicken tamale as an a la carte option to other menu items.
CAMELIA’S MEXICAN GRILL
1304 East 11 Mile Road, Royal Oak
28990 Orchard Lake Road, Farmington Hills
At Camelia’s Mexican Grill, tamales are more than just a menu item—they’re a family tradition. Made with recipes passed down through generations, the tamales at Camelia’s are a labor of love, as is every other item on the menu. Each tamale is carefully crafted, ensuring that every bite encapsulates the warmth and comfort of home-cooked food. Camelia’s commitment to authenticity and quality makes their tamales a must-try. Order the tamale platter for a taste of Camelia’s mother’s spicy seasoned pork or chicken. If you want to try more than just the tamales, get a combo meal, and choose 3 to 4 items from options like tacos, enchiladas, chalupas, flautas, quesadillas, toastadas, and more.
TU TACO TIENDA MEXICANA
31642 John R Road, Madison Heights
Tu Taco Tienda Mexicana captures the essence of Mexican street food with its simple menu, including its mouthwatering tamales. Known for their rich flavors and hearty fillings, Tu Taco’s tamales are a favorite among locals. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a taste of Mexican cuisine, Tu Taco Tienda Mexicana’s tamales offer a delicious escape to the streets of Mexico. Flavors include chicken, pork, or jalapeño and cheese, and can be ordered singularly or by the dozen. For more Mexican cuisine, check out our list here.
BUENA FE RESTAURANT
10116 West Nine Mile Road, Oak Park
Buena Fe Restaurant offers authentic Mexican and Salvadorean cuisine, and takes a creative approach, offering a fusion of flavors that delight the palate. Buena Fe’s tamales are perfect for those looking to explore beyond the traditional while still enjoying the comforting texture and taste of this timeless dish. Here, the tamales are filled with chicken, potatoes, and green beans, and are served with tomato sauce and cabbage salad. These take a more Salvadorean approach to what we typically think of as a Mexican dish, but they do it so deliciously.
HONEY BEE MARKET – LA COLMENA
2443 Bagley Street, Detroit
Honey Bee Market is one of the best Mexican specialty food markets around and has been running for almost 70 years now. It’s a destination for fresh, authentic ingredients and prepared foods, including some of the best tamales around, available seven days a week. Monday through Friday, the tamale lunch is available and includes 3 pork or chicken tamales served with rice and beans, or you can get them by the dozen. On the weekends, they are only available by the dozen but also have a cheese and jalapeño option available in addition to the traditional pork and chicken choices. No matter the flavor you choose, Honey Bee Market – La Colmena offers a delicious, convenient option for enjoying tamales at home or on the go.
This article has been updated to include new information. The original article was published on February 27, 2023, and was authored by Katie Goncalves.
