On February 2nd, Mexico celebrates Candlemas Day, a variety of traditions combined. From Spain’s religious heritage, it is said to be a reminder of the biblical passage when child Jesus was presented at the Temple in Jerusalem and the purification of the Virgin Mary after childbirth.
From our pre-Hispanic past, the tradition is that in many towns, residents take corncobs to church, to be blessed so they can begin the agricultural cycle, which begins on February 2nd, the first month of the ancient Aztec calendar, when a number of gods were honored. That is why the custom is that whoever found the child in the Rosca de Reyes, offers a party with tamales and atole. Both are made based on corn, a food of pre-Hispanic origin, essential in Mexican cuisine.
If you were one of the “fortunate” who found the tiny doll in the Rosca de Reyes, don’t worry! We at Michelleonbell undertook the task of trying more than fifteen tamales, both sweet and savory, to help you decide which are the best tamales in Mexico City.
Whether you must take them to the office and prove to your colleagues that you are the best white-collar worker, or a great host for your family and friends, having dinner at home or a a restaurant. Here are six delicious options to enjoy good tamales on this February 2nd.
Tamalli
Tamalli offers an innovative and nutritious gastronomic experience that captivates the senses of their guests with subtle and traditional flavors. At this take-out store, you can find traditional tamales, such as the green or Oaxacan, or feel inspired to try their more gourmet line with unique ingredients, such as huitlacoche, chiplín Chiapas or blackberry and ricotta. If you are seeking a healthier option, you’ll love Tamalli, as they have a healthy line with nopal and cheese, beans and cheese and vegan. They also sell atole in a variety of flavors, including blueberry, hibiscus, apple and light mango.
Tamalli has locations in Condesa, Polanco, Cuauhtémoc, Las Águilas, Plaza Loreto and Revolución
Fonda Fina
This year, Chef Juan Cabrera at Fonda Fina will be offering two tamales options, the savory with grilled mushrooms, drunk pasilla sauce, cheese and ranch cream, light and ideal for those who don’t eat meat! Or the sweet version with uchepo (traditional dish from Guerrero and Michoacán which consists of a tamal created with tender ground corn) with hazel butter and caramel.
Both versions will be available through the month of February at Fonda Fina.
Medellín 79, Roma Norte Tel: 52083925
Los Tamales de la Roma
Los Tamales de la Roma was established in 2013 by the Romero family. At this place, the family uses traditional recipes handed down by the grandmother, using the highest quality ingredients. This restaurant offers tamales with gourmet combinations, mixes and flavors you wouldnd’t usually find at other places. Our favorites were the Ratatouille with vegetables, the Roma with goat cheese, black olives and peppers. To close with a flourish, the Piolin, made with rice flour, custard cream, Carnation and raisins.
Jalapa 99 A, Roma Norte Tel: 66509228
Lucas Local
Lucas Local, renowned for its creative dishes, such as the famous pressed lobster, wouldn’t stay behind on these dates and will be serving their unique tamale versions. Don’t miss out on their birria tamal and their sweet version made with peanut butter and jam.
Both versions will be available throughout the month of February at Lucas Local.
Colima 65, Roma Norte Tel: 68121073
Chapulín
The renowned Chapulín restaurant within the Presidente Intercontinental hotel preserves the tradition of Candlemas Day by offering delicious tamales. Among the creations of Chef Josefina Lopez for you to enjoy are the wedding stew tamal with tongue, and the corn tamal with goat cheese and pennyroyal for those who prefer something sweet.
Hotel Presidente Intercontinental Campos Elíseos 218, Polanco Tel: 5327 7700
Tamales Emporio
Founded in 1960 by Don Lamberto González, who with the help of his wife Doña Rosita established to company with the goal of providing capital city residents a chance to enjoy a few delicacies of regional Mexican cuisine. Tamales Emporio uses the traditional methods and recipes to prepare its products. Here you can find a wide array of options, both savory and sweet. Some of the favorites are the Oaxaqueño tamal made of corn, mole or guava and Nutella. Accompany your tamal with a guava or coconut atole.
Contreras # 18-A, San Rafael Tel: 5546 2134
Order your tamales in advance or visit these restaurants to enjoy them with friends or family on this February 2nd. You’ll need to leave the diet aside, but the extra calories are certainly worthwhile!
