Tamales are the obvious draw (the same masa shows up in a meat-filled enchilada too), but the Santo Taco — a housemade tortilla crisped with melted cheese and loaded with green chorizo, adobada, and barbacoa — is the one people keep ordering back. The real find for regulars is the rotating stuff: a 'Tamal del Mes' that changes monthly, an agua fresca special the counter staff will tell you about if you just ask, and a weekends-only pozole verde that's worth timing a visit around.
Breakfast runs long here too, with a capirotada (bread pudding with salted caramel and banana) and a cinnamon-spiced cafe de olla that reads more like a destination than a quick stop.
No photos yet — be the first to add one.
Have a photo from a recent visit? — customers and business owners both welcome.
Know about a deal here that's not listed? Add it below — we'll verify and publish it.
to suggest a special.
Think Santa Masa Tamaleria deserves Iconic/Notable or Super Gem status? Tell us why.
to nominate a gem.
Every restaurant, dive, diner, bakery, and beef stand that made its way onto the show — plus an interactive map of every stop.
The Chicago Specials Score: member votes plus our own editorial judgment, updated as new spots earn their place.
Every real, verified Chicago event worth planning around — browse month by month, from this weekend to next summer.
Chicago
