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Tamales may have roots in Mexico, but here in Arkansas, they’ve carved out a spot on our tables and in our hearts. From mom-and-pop diners to busy food trucks and barbecue joints, tamales are popping up all over the state—and we Arkansans can’t seem to get enough of them. Whether you like them mild or spicy, wrapped in corn husks or served on a platter with hot sauce and crackers, tamales have become a must-try across the Arkansas food scene.
Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish. Typically large, Mexican tamales are made from masa, a corn-based dough, that is filled with meat, cheese, beans, and spices, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed. They are soft and moist, and the flavors can vary from region to region.
But here in Arkansas, especially in the Delta, tamales have taken on a character all their own. Delta-style tamales are typically smaller, spicier, and made with cornmeal instead of masa. They’re simmered or boiled, rather than steamed, which gives them a firmer texture and bolder flavor.
Arkansas tamales offer a nod to Mexican culture but have a flavor and appeal all their own and have become a beloved part of our local food culture.
Photo courtesy of Southern Foodway Alliance.
Pasquale’s Tamales – Helena
This food truck is owned and operated by Joe St. Columbia, whose Sicilian-American family has been making Delta tamales since the early 20th century. The truck is open just a few days a week, and their tamales sell out quickly. Their tasty recipe is made with beef, yellow cornmeal, and simmered for hours in a spicy broth.
Location: 1005 Hwy. 49, Helena-West Helena, AR 72342
Photo courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
Rhoda’s Famous Tamales – Lake Village
Rhoda Adams began her business selling sweet potato pies to raise money for her church. Her pies were a hit with the locals, but when she started making her husband’s aunt’s tamale recipe, she became known all over the state. Rhoda died in 2023, but family and friends continue her tradition of making pies and tamales.
Location: 714 St Marys St, Lake Village, AR 71653
Photo courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
The Tamale Factory – Augusta (Gregory)
George Eldridge opened the Tamale Factory to solve a problem for his Little Rock restaurant, Doe’s Eat Place. He had been purchasing tamales for his restaurant in Greenville, Mississippi, when his supplier decided to close their business. He then began buying them in Newport but ran into problems again. Deciding his best bet was himself, Eldridge converted a portion of the large barn on his farm in Gregory to a commercial kitchen and began making all of the tamales for Doe’s. While he was doing the work, he decided to open a restaurant space and serve a menu similar to what he was serving in Little Rock. The rest is history, and on Fridays and Saturdays, the restaurant is filled to the brim with patrons enjoying fine steaks and, of course, tamales, served hot and spicy with a side of chili and crackers.
Location: 19751 Hwy. 33 South Augusta, AR 72006
Photo courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
Doe’s Eat Place – Little Rock
Also owned by George Elderidge, Doe’s Eat Place serves tamales handmade in the hundreds at The Tamale Factory in Augusta. You can also enjoy the giant family-style steaks that put Doe’s on the map.
Location: 1023 W Markham St, Little Rock, AR 72201
Photo courtesy of Heights – Taco & Tamale Co.
Taco & Tamale Co. – Little Rock, Bentonville & Fayetteville
The tamales at the Taco & Tamale Co. are made fresh daily. These Delta-style tamales are available in two varieties: a savory pulled pork and beef option topped with red chile broth, and a vegetarian-friendly sweet potato version filled with black beans, chipotle, and corn, finished with a tomatillo-lime broth.
Locations:
5805 Kavanaugh Boulevard, Little Rock, AR 72207
101 W. Central Avenue, Bentonville, AR 72712
417 M.L.K. Jr Blvd., Fayetteville, AR 72701
Photo courtesy of Wild Willie Tamales.
Authentic Mexican Tamales (AKA – Your Local Tamale Lady)
I’d be remiss not to mention the local tamale makers across the state. We all know and love our local tamale ladies (and guys), the ones who are making authentic Mexican tamales out of their home kitchen and selling them at roadside stands, food trucks, and even in parking lots. Ask around town or post in your neighborhood Facebook group, and you’re sure to get a handful of incredible suggestions. Some of my local favorites include Doris Perez and Wild Willie Tamales.
Whether you prefer the bold, spicy flavors of a Delta-style tamale or the soft, savory comfort of a traditional Mexican version, there’s no denying they have found a home in Arkansas. With so many delicious options across the state, it’s always a good time to unwrap something tasty.
Cover photo courtesy of the Arkansas Department of Parks, Heritage and Tourism.
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