Here's where to get the best tamales in the Bay Area to unwrap on Christmas Eve.
Cosecha
Whether you're a vegetarian or a carnivore, Cosecha has got you covered this Christmas with their delicious braised pork tamales and equally tasty green chile and cheese version. Don't forget to order from a wide array of sides, including rice and beans, pico de gallo, and guacamole to complete your Christmas meal. Place your order at the restaurant inside Swan's Market. // 907 Washington St. (Oakland), cosechacafe.com
Donna's Tamales
I didn't think it was possible (and we weren't sure we wanted it) but Donna's Tamales have found a way to make tamales healthy and delicious at the same time. All their offerings are low-fat and vegetarian, but don't think that that takes away from the flavor. Opt for the cheese chili corn tamale or red and black beans with yams tamale. And if you're not sick of them yet, you can always pick up sweet corn roasted chili tamales for dessert. Find them at a store near you or at one of these local farmer markets.// donnastamales.com
La Oaxaquena
Tamales filled with Oaxacan mole, green chili and pork, rajas, spinach and cheese, and even tofu are steamed the traditional way at this Mission eatery. Just call 415-621-5446 to order, and they'll make whatever your heart desires— seriously. // 2128 Mission St. (Mission), oaxaquena.yolasite.com
Copita Tequileria y Comida
Copita in downtown Sausalito is celebrating the holidays in the best way possible with 12 Days of Tamales. Maestra de Cocina Joanne Weir will be offering a seasonal handmade tamale daily during lunch and dinner from December 19-31. Here are just some of the options you have to look forward to: chicken and salsa verde, cochinita pibil, butternut squash and ginger, and poblana rajas. // 739 Bridgeway (Sausalito), copitarestaurant.com
