For many, a trip to East Boston means navigating a one-two punch of construction and traffic for a trip to Logan Airport. For us, we’re plotting a course to Taqueria Jalisco, a destination that’s always worth it. There is no wrong order to place at this colorful spot: Sometimes it’s a birria day, sometimes it’s to satisfy a craving for enchiladas or burritos. When it comes to the tamales, they’re always part of our order. Tamales Mexicanos contain either pork marinated in red sauce or chicken marinated in green sauce. Both are so simple yet full of flavor.

What was once a small, quaint spot in Jamaica Plain has grown into a highly sought-after empire of 10 locations. The menu is extensive at Chilacates and we love it all—taco plates like smoky chicken tinga and birria, the best rolled burritos around—and of course, the unsung hero, tamales. Neatly wrapped in corn husks, Chilacates keeps it nice and simple with a side of pico de gallo and a choice of chicken, cheese, or pork. Regardless of which neighborhood you might be in, add on a side of tamales to round out your order.

Villa Mexico Cafe is a proudly immigrant-women-family run spot that’s been serving made-to-order Mexican favorites for 20 years. Today, the Downtown spot is best known for oversized grilled burritos, but the house-made tamales are not to be slept on. Two tamales come with each order—either pork, beef, chicken, or cheese with spicy pepper—along with rice, beans, and salsa that’s so good, it’s sold by the jar. You can also snag your tamales to go. Villa Mexico Cafe operates true Financial District hours, only open during weekdays, so plan your detour now.

With two East Boston locations, Angela’s Cafe brings authentic Mexican cuisine originating from the country’s Puebla region. The family-owned spot is best known for specialties like chicken Enchiladas de Mole, shredded beef Tinga Burritos, and all the tacos under the sun. But the Pueblan specialities do not stop there: enter Tamales Caseros de Puebla. The stuffed baked corn dough is here for you to choose your own adventure filling-wise. Try Pork with green sauce, Rajas con Queso (poblano peppers with cheese) with red sauce, or a Chicken Mole Tamale. 

Jacqueline Cain contributed reporting