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Central Los Angeles › Central Los Angeles › Tamales Alberto
Tamales AlbertoBWorth Trying
1644 W Temple St, Los Angeles, CA 90026
· Mexican restaurant, Latin American restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (450 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Beloved neighborhood tamale spot with standout mole and green chicken tamales, solid breakfast plates, counter-service charm, and very fair pricing, though service speed and consistency can vary.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Tamales Alberto delivers solid neighborhood dining through excellent tamale quality and outstanding value, supported by a devoted multi-decade customer base. However, inconsistent execution on certain items and limited seating with occasional service delays prevent a higher grade. This is authentic, unpretentious comfort food that rewards regulars more than first-time visitors.
Restaurant Summary
A true neighborhood staple with a counter, a few small tables, and the smell of fresh masa, this spot feels warm and unpretentious. Regulars rave about the mole and green chicken tamales, with one noting, "three tamales with rice, beans, and coffee felt like a steal." Expect friendly service at most visits, though waits can stretch at peak times. The cooking leans classic and comforting: handmade tamales, chilaquiles, pozole, and burritos. Flavors are homestyle rather than flashy, and portions satisfy. Mole shines, green sauce has pleasant heat, and chilaquiles with egg are a breakfast favorite. It is a place for straightforward Mexican staples, not fusion experiments. Families do well here. Kids can stick to beans and cheese burritos, quesadillas, or mild tamales; the menu even lists spinach and cheese and tofu chipotle for varied diets. Seating is limited but workable, and prices keep family visits sensible.
At a Glance
- Standout mole and green chicken tamales with consistent praise
- Excellent value for hearty plates and handmade items
- Limited seating and occasional long waits during rush and holidays
- A few reports of bland or dry tamales and service hiccups
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- handmade_tamales_daily
- beloved_holiday_preorders
- classic_breakfast_chilaquiles
What People Love
- Handmade tamales with balanced masa-to-filling
- Rich, satisfying mole
- Chilaquiles that deliver spice and crunch
- Neighborhood feel and friendly counter crew
- Prices that respect the budget
Points of Concern
- Limited seating; plan for takeout or off-peak dining
- Holiday ordering may restrict mixed flavors in half-dozens
- Occasional service lapses (labeling mistakes, delayed orders)
- A few diners found certain tamales bland or too mild
- Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (templated owner replies, enthusiastic language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$15-26 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Build a combo: three tamales (mole and green chicken), add rice and beans, plus cafe de olla for value under $20
Perfect For
- Quick casual breakfast after Echo Park stroll
- Holiday tamale preorders for gatherings
- Affordable, hearty weeknight takeout
- Solo comfort-food stop
Location Insights
Area: Casual, working-to-middle class corridor near Echo Park; local foot traffic, grab-and-go vibe, daytime energy.
Safety: Generally safe by day with steady activity; standard urban caution after dark.
Nearby: Close to Echo Park and Historic Filipinotown; nearby coffee cart, small businesses, and residential streets.
Echo ParkEcho Park is a vibrant, culturally rich neighborhood with a strong Latino heritage and an evolving dining scene that includes authentic Mexican eateries alongside trendy cafes and bars. The area is known for its artistic vibe, community events, and a mix of longtime residents and newcomers.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday07:00–15:00
Tuesday07:00–17:30
Wednesday07:00–17:30
Thursday07:00–17:30
Friday07:00–17:30
Saturday07:00–17:30
Sunday07:00–15:00
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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