Simi Valley's Best Tamales [Updated 2026]

Simi Valley's Best Tamales [Updated 2026]

Every bite tells a story, and let me tell you, Simi Valley has some delicious tales to share! Having scoured the local scene and indulged in tamales from seven top-notch locations, I’ve gathered a treasure trove of flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

You can trust my expertise because I’ve sampled everything from traditional recipes passed down through generations to modern twists that push the boundaries of flavor. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a curious newcomer, I promise these tamales will have you coming back for more. Let’s dive into this savory journey together!

Elvira's Mexican Grill

Elvira's Mexican Grill
🗺️ 1854 Cochran St, Simi Valley, CA 93065, United States
☎️ +1805-422-8421
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
Highlights
Welcoming staff experience
Delicious Chile Relleno
Friendly and attentive service
Inviting outdoor seating
Satisfying portion sizes

At Elvira's Mexican Grill, I was immediately greeted by the welcoming staff, setting the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. The atmosphere was just right—inviting, with comfortable outdoor seating that felt perfect for savoring a plate of tamales under the California sun.

As I perused the menu, I couldn't resist pairing my tamales with a delicious Chile Relleno, a hallmark of any great Mexican eatery. But let's talk tamales! They arrived steaming hot, wrapped snugly in warm corn husks, ready to be unwrapped and enjoyed.

With each bite, I marveled at the delightful balance of flavors—the masa was just right, with a delightful texture that melted in my mouth. What truly stood out, however, was the generous filling; it was evident that quality ingredients played a significant role in crafting these tasty treats.

The attentive service was the cherry on top. As I dined, the staff checked in frequently, ensuring everything was perfect. With satisfying portion sizes that left me feeling both full and happy, I must say that my time at Elvira's was an enjoyable experience. I can confidently declare that this spot serves some of the best tamales in Simi Valley!

You might also want to check out the best tamales in Moreno Valley.

La cocina 12-12

La cocina 12-12
🗺️ 2531 Royal Ave, Simi Valley, CA 93065, United States
☎️ +1805-422-6696
🌐 Website
Sunday: 10 AM–4 PM
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–6 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–8 PM
Friday: 11 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 10 AM–6 PM
Highlights
Amazing hot food
Incredible Mexican hot dog
Friendly and pleasant staff
Fresh Mexican ingredients
Great Taco Tuesday deals

La cocina 12-12 is a delightful gem in Simi Valley that has stolen my heart—and my taste buds! As I stepped inside, I was instantly welcomed by the pleasant aroma of fresh Mexican ingredients wafting through the air. It was clear that this place is all about quality and flavor.

I dove straight into their tamales, and let me tell you, they did not disappoint! Each tamal was steamy and bursting with fillings, delivering a comforting hug of flavor. Paired with a side of their incredible salsas, I found myself savoring every delightful bite. It's easy to get lost in the warmth of a great meal here.

Not only is the food hot and fresh, but the staff is also wonderfully friendly, making you feel like part of the family. I especially loved their Taco Tuesday deals, where the variety of options is as enticing as the tamales themselves!

If you're searching for a tamale experience that balances taste and warmth, I wholeheartedly recommend popping into La cocina 12-12. You might just find your new favorite!

Maria's Mexican Restaurant

Maria's Mexican Restaurant
🗺️ 2513 Sycamore Dr, Simi Valley, CA 93065, United States
☎️ +1805-526-5016
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–8 PM
Monday: 8 AM–2:30 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–2:30 PM
5 PM–9 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–2:30 PM
5 PM–9 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–2:30 PM
5 PM–9 PM
Friday: 8 AM–2:30 PM
5 PM–9 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–8 PM
Highlights
Delicious, well-prepared food
Clean and comfortable atmosphere
Friendly and attentive service
Great local recommendation
Perfect for a quiet meal

Maria's Mexican Restaurant caught my attention as I embarked on a quest to discover the best tamales in Simi Valley, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The moment I stepped inside, I was enveloped by a warm and inviting atmosphere that felt both clean and comfortable. It was the perfect setting for savoring authentic Mexican cuisine.

As I perused the menu, I couldn’t help but feel the excitement build. The friendly staff greeted me with genuine smiles and made sure my dining experience was nothing short of exceptional. When the tamales arrived, I could hardly wait to dive in, and they were every bit as delicious as I had hoped. Each bite revealed tender masa wrapped around a flavorful filling, bursting with spices that transported my taste buds straight to Mexico!

What I appreciated most was that these tamales reflect the love and care put into them. It’s no surprise they come highly recommended by locals. If you're searching for a delightful meal in a tranquil spot, Maria's is the place to be. Trust me—you won't regret indulging in their wonderful tamales!

Tina's Tamales

Tina's Tamales
🗺️ undefined
☎️ +1805-904-9628
🌐 Website
Highlights
Perfect meat to masa ratio
Made with love
Delicious masa
Great barbacoa tamales
Irresistible green salsa

Review of Tina's Tamales

Nestled in the heart of Simi Valley, Tina's Tamales is a hidden gem that has captured my taste buds in the most delightful way. As soon as I entered, the aroma of freshly prepared tamales wrapped in love enveloped me, setting the stage for a culinary adventure.

What stood out was their perfect meat to masa ratio—every bite was a symphony of flavors. I indulged in their barbacoa tamales, and let me tell you, the tenderness of the meat mixed with the delicious masa was simply divine. Each tamale felt like a warm embrace, lovingly made to transport you straight to flavor heaven.

But the true star of the show was the irresistible green salsa that accompanied my meal. It added a delightful kick that made every bite come alive. With every tamale I devoured, I could taste the heart and soul that goes into making these goodies.

In a town rich with culinary offerings, Tina's Tamales not only stands out but also sets the bar high for what tamales should be. If you’re in Simi Valley searching for a taste sensation, look no further—Tina's is the place to be!

Carrillo's Mexican Deli

Carrillo's Mexican Deli
🗺️ 2836 Cochran St, Simi Valley, CA 93065, United States
☎️ +1805-522-8939
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–3 PM
Monday: 8 AM–5 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–5 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–5 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–5 PM
Friday: 8 AM–5 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–5 PM
Highlights
Friendly service
Homemade corn tortillas
Quality meats and cheeses
Consistent and flavorful dishes
Welcoming atmosphere

Visiting Carrillo's Mexican Deli is like stepping into a warm hug infused with the rich aromas of authentic Mexican cuisine. As I walked through the door, I was greeted with friendly service that instantly made me feel at home. Their tamales? Simply outstanding!

What sets Carrillo's apart is their homemade corn tortillas, which are the foundation of each delightful offering. I tried both the pork and chicken varieties, and each bite revealed quality meats seasoned to perfection. The flavors weren't just present; they waltzed around my taste buds, each tamale boasting its own personality while remaining incredibly consistent and delicious.

The atmosphere exudes a welcoming vibe, drawing you into a space where you can casually enjoy both your meal and conversations with those around you. I found myself wishing I could stay longer, just soaking in the warmth of the place and indulging in dish after scrumptious dish.

Whether you’re a seasoned tamale aficionado or a curious newcomer, Carrillo's Mexican Deli is a must-visit spot in Simi Valley. You won't just leave with a full stomach; you'll carry with you the essence of authentic Mexican hospitality.

La Hacienda Taqueria

La Hacienda Taqueria
🗺️ 1390 Madera Rd Ste P2, Simi Valley, CA 93065, United States
☎️ +1805-210-3147
🌐 Website
Sunday: 11 AM–8 PM
Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
Thursday: 11 AM–9 PM
Friday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
Saturday: 11 AM–9:30 PM
Highlights
Incredible homemade horchata
Perfectly saucy enchiladas
Friendly and attentive staff
Beautiful outdoor seating
Delicious fish tacos

When I stepped into La Hacienda Taqueria, I was immediately welcomed by the warm and vibrant atmosphere, which sets a perfect stage for a flavorful feast. My journey began with a glass of their incredible homemade horchata—refreshing and subtly sweet, it was the ideal companion for the rich flavors that were to come.

The tamales here are a standout feature. Wrapped in soft masa, each bite reveals a tantalizing blend of spices and fillings. They offer a variety, but I was particularly captivated by the pork tamale, which was bursting with flavor, complemented by a zesty salsa that danced on the palate. The tenderness of the masa paired beautifully with the succulent filling, making each bite a joyful experience.

I also couldn't resist trying their perfectly saucy enchiladas and delicious fish tacos. The staff, friendly and attentive, made my meal even better, ensuring that I had everything I needed to fully enjoy my feast. With beautiful outdoor seating to soak up the California sun, I left La Hacienda Taqueria with a happy heart and a full belly, already dreaming of my next visit. It's undoubtedly a must-visit for tamale lovers in Simi Valley!

Pozoleria Dona Ana Simi Valley

Pozoleria Dona Ana Simi Valley
🗺️ 2760 Tapo Canyon Rd Ste 4, Simi Valley, CA 93063, United States
☎️ +1805-261-0092
🌐 Website
Sunday: 8 AM–8 PM
Monday: 8 AM–8 PM
Tuesday: 8 AM–8 PM
Wednesday: 8 AM–8 PM
Thursday: 8 AM–8 PM
Friday: 8 AM–8 PM
Saturday: 8 AM–8 PM
Highlights
Fresh and tasteful pozole
Great portion sizes
Delicious breakfast burrito
Mixed customer service reviews
Popular for return visits

Review of Pozoleria Dona Ana Simi Valley

Visiting Pozoleria Dona Ana Simi Valley was an experience that danced joyfully on my taste buds! As I walked in, the vibrant atmosphere immediately hinted at the deliciousness to come. I decided to try their famous tamales, and oh, were they delightful! Each bite revealed a well-balanced blend of flavors, showcasing the traditional craftsmanship that goes into making them.

One standout was the pozole, which was sumptuous and fresh, offering a comforting embrace that beckons you to savor every spoonful. It's clear that the chefs here pour their heart and soul into their recipes. The portion sizes were generous without ever feeling overwhelming.

While the weekday rush may influence customer service, the eagerness of the casual vibe only added charm to my visit. And let’s not forget their breakfast burrito—another gem that I couldn't resist! The mix of textures and spices created a delightful wake-up call for my palate.

If you’re in Simi Valley and eager for extraordinary tamales that keep you coming back for more, Pozoleria Dona Ana should be at the top of your list! Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Dustin CaldwellD
WRITTEN BY

Dustin Caldwell

Dustin Caldwell is a passionate food writer specializing in tamales, celebrating the rich cultural heritage and diverse flavors of this beloved dish. With a knack for storytelling and a deep appreciation for culinary traditions, he brings the world of tamales to life through his engaging articles and recipes.

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