The Tamale Store in North Phoenix is a family-run operation known for its small-batch tamales and generous portions. Staples like red and green chile pork are crowd favorites, while standout options include green corn with cream cheese and Hatch chiles, Baja seafood, and sweet chipotle corn. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free varieties are also available, with tamales sold fresh or frozen. Prices start at $9 for a two-pack, $26 for a half-dozen, and $45 for a dozen. For those outside the Valley, nationwide shipping offers a chance to share a taste of Phoenix.

A no-frills Valley favorite since 1968, Carolina’s Mexican Food is best known for its tortillas, but the tamales offer a dependable take on the classics. Varieties include red beef in their signature red sauce, and green corn with fresh kernels, green chiles, and melted cheese. Available cooked or frozen, they’re an easy addition to any holiday spread. Prices start at $15 for a half-dozen and $30 for a dozen.

Once a farmers market favorite, Mama Olga’s Tamales now operates out of a cozy brick-and-mortar spot in Sunnyslope. At $5 each or $27.25 per dozen, they strike the right balance of masa to filling. Pickup and delivery are available, and occasional appearances at farmers markets across the Valley keep the original spirit alive — check their social media for updates.

A Downtown Glendale mainstay for over 20 years, La Fama Mexican Food & Bakery is a favorite for perfectly prepared masa and fresh tamales. Sold by the pound, the masa is a top choice for tamale makers across the Valley. Tamales are available frozen by the dozen or in hot six-packs for easy pickup. This counter-service shop also serves Mexican baked goods, green chile, chicharrones, and fresh flour tortillas. It’s best to call ahead, especially during the holidays.

La Purísima Bakery is a Phoenix favorite for tamales, masa, and a wide array of Mexican baked goods. Tamale options include red chile pork, green chile pork, roasted chile rajas (pepper strips) with cheese, and a sweet variety with raisins and coconut. Their tamales often sell out early — especially the red chile — so it’s best to arrive before mid-morning. They also offer prepared masa with a hint of sweetness that takes homemade tamales to the next level.

On the far west side, Cristina’s Salvadorean Food wraps tamales in banana leaves — a move that’s both practical and delicious, and a hallmark of Salvadoran cooking. Options include corn tamales (tamal de elote), chicken tamales served with a bolillo roll, and combination plates with pupusas. These tamales deliver a comforting flavor that might just shift loyalty away from corn husks.

Los Altos is a well-known chain of Mexican-leaning international grocery stores in the Valley. Priced at just $2.89 each, the store-made tamales are an affordable and convenient option for last-minute pickups. The market also sells masa for home cooks, with notable flavors like strawberry, pineapple, and piña colada. Occasionally, the market hosts tamale-making classes for those looking to try their hand at the process.

Located in Tolleson, Tamales Guadalajara offers fresh, homestyle tamales that bring Jalisco flavors to Phoenix. Options include pork, beef, chicken, cheese, and sweet varieties, priced at $2.95 each, $16 for a half-dozen, or $32 per dozen. Advance orders are recommended to ensure availability of these handmade tamales.