On March 23rd, we celebrate National Tamale Day!
These traditional Mexican dishes, featuring corn dough (masa) filled with protein, veggies, or sauces, are wrapped in corn husks and steamed, becoming soft, moist bundles of deliciousness. A staple of ancient Mesoamerica, tamales often grace the tables of holidays and celebrations. Weddings and quinceañeras frequently feature them on their menus.
Muskegon boasts multiple restaurants who regularly feature tamales. Taste of Muskegon and Visit Muskegon have partnered to create a 'Taste of Tamales' guide. This guide highlights local eateries offering delicious tamales, making it easy for you to find your new favorite.
Taste of Tamales was created not only to celebrate National Tamale Day, but also in celebration of Women's history month - celebrated the entire month of March. The restaurants highlighted in Taste of Tamales are all woman-owned establishments. Join us in supporting these businesses during Women's history month and beyond.
Navarro’s Mexican Takeout
A family-owned haven in Muskegon Heights for over 45 years, Navarro's Mexican Takeout (2537 8th St, Muskegon Heights, MI 49444; Wed-Sat 11:30 am - 7:00 pm) Marisela Sierra, the third-generation owner, now carries on the torch of her mother and grandmother before her. What makes Navarro’s tamales unique is that they stone-grind the corn for the masa in house. Their signature? A seasoned ground pork tamale in spicy and mild varieties. But keep an eye out for year-round specialty flavors like vegan pinto bean, jalapeño popper, and chicken!
Hodgepodge Bake Shop
Hodgepodge Bake Shop, owned by a sister duo, Diana and Lorena Perez, is known best for their pastries and sandwiches. However, on Saturdays from 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, they carry fresh tamales. You can find chicken, pork, and jalapeño cheese flavors. Be sure to get there early on Saturdays, as these tamales are popular! Hodgepodge is located at 3361 McCracken St, Muskegon, MI 49444 and is open Tuesday through Saturday.
Isabella’s
Isabella's, owned by Isabella Guillen, began as a vibrant yellow food truck on Laketon Ave serving Mexican and Salvadorian food. They made the move to the Lakes Mall food court last year, where they continue to serve up pupusas, quesadillas, and of course, tamales. They offer pork tamales, available a la carte or loaded with cheese, lettuce, tomato, and sour cream. You can find them 7 days a week in the Lakes Mall located at 5600 Harvey St #1044, Muskegon, MI 49444.
Los Amigos Tequila Bar & Grill
Los Amigos Tequila Bar & Grill has become a Muskegon fixture, celebrating over 10 years in our community. Owner, Ana Olson, brings her "Vitamin T" to life in her tamales, tacos, tostadas, & tequila. Los Amigos offers chicken tamales that can be purchased a la carte, as part of a combo meal, or on a lunch or dinner platter. Their tamales come drenched in their signature red sauce and cheese, and you can add other proteins on top. They are located at 1848 E Sherman Blvd Suite M, Muskegon, MI 49444 and are open Tuesday - Sunday.
