Few dishes capture the heart of Phoenix like tamales. Whether you prefer red chile beef, green corn, or sweet pineapple, these wrapped bundles of masa are more than comfort food—they’re a celebration of family and culture. Across the Valley, you’ll find tamale shops and local Mexican restaurants that have perfected this time-honored tradition. From grab-and-go dozens to fresh masa for home cooks, here’s where to find the best tamales in Phoenix.
Carolina’s Mexican Food
A Phoenix institution since 1968, Carolina’s is known for its handmade tortillas and authentic Sonoran-style tamales. Choose from red or green chile beef—simple, classic, and delicious.
- Bulk orders: Available by the dozen or 1/2 dozen; pre-order early in December. 1/2 Dozen~$16 Dozen ~$30.
- Masa: Yes, sold by the pound for home tamale-making.
- Individual tamales: Yes, sold individually for about $4.75 each.
- Pro tip: Catering trays available—traditional red beef or green corn (serves ~30) for about $85.
2126 E Cactus Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85022
(602) 275-8231
La Purisima Bakery
This family-owned bakery is a local favorite where customers line up early for red chile pork and green corn tamales, plus pan dulce and champurrado. The scent of fresh masa fills the air.
- Bulk orders: Available by the dozen; pre-order early, as they sell out fast.
- Masa: Yes—La Purisima sells two types of masa: regular and sweet, both by the pound.
- Individual tamales: Yes, available daily while supplies last.
- Prices: Tamales typically range $30 per dozen; masa about $3–$4/lb.
2318 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 957-2771
The Tamale Store
A North Phoenix favorite, The Tamale Store crafts gourmet tamales with natural ingredients, from chicken mole to vegan red chile. Their menu offers vegan and vegetarian options, along with seasonal selections such as pumpkin pie and a 1 lb chile relleno tamale.
- Bulk orders: Yes—available by the dozen, frozen or fresh; catering trays and gift boxes offered. 1/2 Dozen~$26 Dozen ~$46 Tamale party tray~$45 per dozen (mix and match allowed)
- Masa: Yes, made fresh and sold by the pound for home tamale-making.
- Individual tamales: 2-pack is ~$9
- Pro tip: Their sweet corn tamales are a local favorite.
15842 N Cave Creek Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85032
(602) 435-2604
Maria’s Frybread and Mexican Food
- This downtown gem serves homestyle tamales alongside its famous frybread and menudo.
- Bulk orders: Available by the dozen—call ahead for pickup.
- Individual tamales: Yes, served fresh daily. Choose from red beef and red beef with red sauce and cheese.
- Masa: Not sold separately.
1817 E Indian School Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85016
(602) 241-0711
La Piñata
One of Phoenix’s oldest Mexican restaurants, La Piñata serves red chile tamales full of flavor and nostalgia.
- Bulk orders: Yes—red or green corn by the dozen for pickup or catering.
- Masa: Occasionally available by the pound during the holidays.
- Individual tamales: Yes, beef or green corn available for dine-in or takeout. Both available with red or green sauce.
- Prices: Bulk orders only available by the dozen~$48/dozen; call for specials.
5521 N 7th Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85013
(602) 279-1763
Mama Olga’s Tamales and Fine Mexican Food
Mama Olga’s is all about preserving the art of tamale-making. They offer gluten-free traditional red chile beef and green chile chicken tamales.
- Bulk orders: Yes—perfect for catering or family events. Dozen ~$16–$20.
- Masa: Yes—available plain or prepared.
- Individual tamales: Yes, available for takeout.
- Pro tip: They sell out quickly; pre-order early.
905 W Hatcher Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85021
(602) 902-1690
El Bravo Mexican Food
Serving authentic Sonoran tamales for over 40 years, El Bravo’s green corn tamales are legendary. El Bravo offers vegetarian options, such as spinach and vegetable, along with more traditional chicken and beef selections.
- Bulk orders: Yes—fresh or frozen by the 1/2 dozen or dozen (with mixed options available).
- Masa: Yes, available by the pound during the holidays.
- Individual tamales: Yes, available year-round.
- Prices: $32–$36 per dozen.
8338 N 7th St, Phoenix, AZ 85020
(602) 943-9753
Espo’s Mexican Food
Espo’s is known for hearty, flavorful tamales wrapped in perfectly seasoned masa.
- Bulk orders: Yes, choose from red chile beef or green corn prepared with chilada sauce on top. Half trays or full trays available for gatherings.
- Masa: Not sold separately.
- Prices: Around $65 for a half tray and $125 for a full tray.
3867 W Chandler Blvd, Chandler, AZ 85226
(480) 588-7377
