Berkeley Parents Network: Where to find the Best Tamales

Berkeley Parents Network

Where to find the Best Tamales

Berkeley Parents Network > Reviews > What/Where to Buy > Food Shopping > Where to find the Best Tamales

November 2003

For many years, we have followed the tradition of tamale making for the Christmas holiday. This year, we're not going to be able to do it, but I'd like to buy tamales for family and friends. Anyone know of a Mexican bakery/restaurant with really good ones that sells by the dozen? I'd prefer locations between and including Berkeley and Richmond. Thanks. Lori

My absolute favorite tamales are at the Farmers' Market in Walnut Creek on Sunday mornings. I'm not sure what other Farmers' Markets she does, but these are made without lard or unhealthy oils and in many varieties,some vegetarian. elaine

I buy tamales in ''mi tierra foods'' is an store on San Pablo Av. and University Ave. they are really good. gvbrown

The best tamales I've found in the East Bay are from the taqueria in the Emeryville Public Market. (I confess that I actually haven't looked very hard for better ones, since those are so yummy.) During the year they sell pork and chicken tamales; I'm not sure if they offer anything special for Christmas or sell packaged tamales in bulk. Happy eating! Janice

I don't remember the name of the woman, but at the El Cerrito Plaza farmer's market there is a woman who sells her homemade tamales and other delicious items. They are outstanding!!! also a tamale lover

For the person looking for tamales, I really enjoy Donna's Tamales. They're tasty, and I think all are made veggie or vegan. I especially recommend the cheese w/ green chilies and the tofu chipotle (I think that's what its called). They're stellar, and have become my Tuesday tradition at the SF Farmers' Market at the Ferry building.

I checked the web, and they do sell them at shops in the east bay, presumably in quantity. Take a look at their website (http://www.donnastamales.com/)and under ''purchase'' you'll see listings of east bay shops (also SF and Marin).

Cool - I may have to buy these for home so my husband can have them too. Good luck. Rebecca

Have you tried the tamales at Mi Tierra? It's been a while since I've had them, but they were yummy. Mi Tierra is on San Pablo one block south of University. Nancy

There is a cart vendor that sells tamales outside of St. Cornelius Church (on MacDonald across from the Civic Center) in Richmond. He is there every Sunday after the masses until at least 1, and I think on Saturday evenings too. You could buy some and see if you like them, then ask if you can order the dozens you need. Rose

Have you checked out the ones at El Cerrito naturals on san Pablo? They have about ten different great flavors with some organic ingredients. about $7 for 4 of them. You'll find them to the left or armand's meat counter.

You can find authentic mexican tamales at Pepito's Deli in Richmond. It's located on the corner of 23rd st. and Rheem Ave. They are about $12 for a dozen they have chicken or pork. Last year at x-mas my grandmother ordered enchiladas, chile rellenos, and tamales for 20 people and everything was only around $75. You can also get homemade tamales at La Borinquena deli on 7th and jefferson in Oakland right across from the police department. They do catering and they have a restaurant there. Everything's great. Good luck! alex

You can also try www.tamalegirl.com skito

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