The Tamale Place
5226 Rockville Rd.
Indianapolis, IN 46224
I have never been the biggest fan of tamales. They tend to be just one of those Mexican Food side dishes. We (at least in Indiana) tend to find our Mexican food being commercialized, and basic resemblances of the original dishes. With the influx of Hispanic immigrants (not taking a political stance, just stating a fact) we are beginning to see more authentic places come into existence. The Tamale Place is one of those new places.
In encourage you to read their history on the website, as I am here to discuss the food.
The thing I remember about tamales is how a high school Spanish teacher raved about them. Then I ordered one, and it was just plain, blah, and small. This is so not the case with The Tamale Place. These are family recipes, and nothing is blah (or small for that part) about them.
The way that it operates is very simple. Yes, they have a menu on their website. However, as my co-worker Bret found out, they only make a certain number of each tamale every day. So, get their early. As I've hinted to, these tamales are not what I remembered at least. When I've had tamales before, the were maybe the the length of your standard pen and not very thick. However, at The Tamale Place, I would almost consider them double sized, not not plain. But rather stuffed with wonderful flavors.
So far, I've had Chipotle Chicken and the Spicy Pork in Green Sauce tamales. These two tamales changed my whole opinion on the delicacy as a whole. Meat not your thing? They also have vegetarian tamales (which they do not use any meat products in, we've checked), and they are packed with flavor as well.
Tamales not really your thing? How about some of the best tortilla chips you've ever had? They also have an extensive menu boasting nachos (smothered in queso that is to die for), tacos, tortas, etc. I have not heard a complaint about any of their food.
If you are feeling up for some authentic Mexican food make the trip.
