This Hidden Mexican Bakeshop In Arizona Serves Tamales At Their Finest

In the heart of Phoenix, Tamale Store is a hidden gem where tradition and flavor meet in every bite.

This Mexican bakeshop has perfected the art of the tamale, from tender masa to perfectly seasoned fillings wrapped in corn husks.

Locals know that each tamale is more than just food. It’s a taste of heritage, carefully crafted and bursting with flavor. A visit here turns a simple meal into a memorable experience.

1. A Mother’s Culinary Dream Come True

Martha Rocio Castillo didn’t just start a business… she created a family legacy wrapped in corn husks. As the passionate founder, she transforms traditional Mexican recipes into mouthwatering masterpieces daily.

Her children work alongside her, ensuring every tamale meets their exacting standards.

This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s Martha’s vision of bringing authentic, quality Mexican cuisine to Arizona, one perfectly steamed tamale at a time.

2. From Market Stall to Beloved Restaurant

Back in 2008, hungry shoppers at Phoenix Public Market discovered what would become a local phenomenon.

Those first customers couldn’t get enough of these handcrafted delights, lined up in neat rows at a modest market stall. Success came quickly, leading to their permanent North Phoenix location.

Now customers can enjoy their favorite tamales in a cozy restaurant setting or browse the in-house mercado for take-home treats and authentic Mexican ingredients.

3. Half-Pound Handmade Heavyweights

Forget those tiny tamales you’ve had elsewhere! Each corn-husk-wrapped creation at The Tamale Store tips the scales at nearly half a pound. You’ll never leave hungry after tackling these substantial bundles.

Every tamale is meticulously handcrafted using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

The attention to detail shows in each perfectly formed package, from the smooth, flavorful masa to the generous filling that bursts with authentic Mexican flavors.

4. Healthier Twist on Traditional Recipes

Health-conscious foodies rejoice! The Tamale Store has revolutionized this classic Mexican comfort food by ditching the traditional lard.

Instead, they use a proprietary blend of olive and canola oils that maintains authentic flavor while cutting unnecessary fats.

Their commitment to cleaner eating goes further. All tamales are proudly gluten-free, trans fat-free, and soy-free.

This thoughtful approach makes these delicious bundles accessible to more diners without sacrificing the rich, satisfying taste that keeps customers coming back.

5. Seasonal Surprises Alongside Classic Favorites

Loyalty to tradition doesn’t mean boring menus at The Tamale Store! While their core offerings have remained consistent since 2008, seasonal specialties keep regular customers excited throughout the year.

Summer brings tropical piña colada tamales that taste like vacation wrapped in a corn husk. Fall ushers in pumpkin varieties that perfectly capture autumn’s warm spices.

These rotating flavors complement their everyday menu of beef, chicken, pork, and vegetarian options, ensuring there’s always something new to try.

6. Coast-to-Coast Tamale Delivery

Moved away from Phoenix but still dreaming about these tamales? You’re in luck! The Tamale Store ships their famous corn-husk bundles nationwide, bringing a taste of Arizona’s best Mexican food right to your doorstep.

Each tamale is carefully flash-frozen to preserve flavor and texture. Simply steam them when they arrive, and you’ll swear you’re sitting in their Phoenix restaurant.

This shipping service has created a devoted following of expatriate Arizonans who refuse to live without their tamale fix.

7. Three-Time Champion of Phoenix’s Tamale Scene

When locals talk about the best tamales in Phoenix, one name consistently tops the list.

The Tamale Store has claimed Phoenix New Times’ coveted “Best Tamales” title for three consecutive years, 2021, 2022, and 2023.

This impressive winning streak isn’t just luck. It represents years of perfecting recipes, sourcing quality ingredients, and maintaining exceptional standards.

The triple crown of tamale excellence confirms what customers already knew. Nobody does tamales better in the Valley of the Sun.