If I'm ordering tamales by the dozen or any kind of catering, I'm more than likely going to do it from Momma's Tamales. A specialty tamale spot in Bellaire, originally started off as a small stand in farmers markets before graduating to a brick and mortar last year. For owner Ana, the tamales are a testament to the legacy her mother created (hence the name), and has become one of the area's best tamale makers in the process.
While the place is super tiny and offers only take-out (#1), I would recommend calling ahead of time to place an order and ensure availability for various tamales. They also handle online orders from their website and through the Yelp listing. The staff speaks both Spanish and English and credit card is accepted.
Their tamales vary from traditional (chicken, pork, spinach and cheese) to specialty ones (jalapeno & cheese, black bean & cheese, and bricket & cheese for an extra $2 per dozen). I will likely always order by the dozen (#2) and do a mixed dozen based on what they choose for me. If I'm going to choose, then I personally the spinach & cheese as well as the pork is straight fire. The brisket and cheese will turn some heads, and while it's good, it doesn't out-sabor the pork. Vegan options are also available.
Even their beans and rice are lowkey delicious. Most may tend to balk these sides, but they're incredibly important for the completeness of any of their meals. I also appreciate they offer enchiladas, fajitas, and a killer carne guisada. The beef enchiladas and fajitas are personally my go-tos.
I tend to call a day or two ahead of time for party packages. For $150-300, anywhere from 8-16 *dozen* tamales (#3) with several quarts of beans and rice with salsas. The latter are also no joke: zesty, creamy, and the perfect condiment for any of the food listed above.
Lastly, I'm so impressed with their operation that I'm pleased to know they still operate out of multiple farmers markets across the city. Whether it's me eating their tamales while browsing stuff at the markets or going HAM at a party with dozens of variety, I'm always happy to support (and eat from) Momma's Tamales.
And to Momma Leonor, que descanse en paz.
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(#1) i.e. no seating.
(#2) Because single tamales are boring.
(#3) If you're counting, that's 96-192 tamales. Yes, you want to come to my fiestas. read more