If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and wrapped in a corn husk this holiday season — you’re in luck. Charlotte has some seriously delicious spots to grab Christmas tamales, whether you’re looking to feed the whole family or just sneak one for lunch while running errands.
We’ve rounded up local favorites serving tamales this season, including dine-in and take-home options. But first…
Why Are Tamales a Christmas Tradition?
In many Mexican and Latin American homes, tamales are a holiday must-have — and not just because they’re delicious.
Making tamales is a hands-on, all-hands-on-deck kind of event. Families gather in the kitchen to spread masa, spoon in fillings, roll the husks, and steam giant batches together. It’s messy, it takes hours, and it’s full of stories, laughter, and good music.
Tamales are more than a meal — they’re about togetherness, passing down recipes, and celebrating family traditions. And that makes them perfect for Christmas.
Where to Get Tamales in Charlotte
Taqueria Mal Pan (SouthPark)
Address: 4620 Piedmont Row Drive Suite 170B, Charlotte, NC
Website: Taqueria Mal Pan
If you’re looking for a tamale experience that’s both festive and fuss-free, Taqueria Mal Pan is offering a limited-time Mexican Christmas Tamale Trio that celebrates rich seasonal flavors.
Here’s what’s inside:
- Pork in Chile Verde – Slow-roasted pork with zesty tomatillo salsa
- Butternut Squash – Earthy, slightly sweet squash with mushroom and maize relish
- Chicken with Rajas – Roasted poblano, sweet corn, and crema
Pre-orders for a dozen ($60) open December 10 and must be placed by December 21. Pickup happens all day December 24, 2025. Bonus: the first 25 bulk orders come in a traditional mercado bag — perfect for gifting!
Want to try before you commit? Starting December 5, the Butternut Squash tamale will be available during dine-in for $9.
Tamales La Pasadita (East Charlotte)
Address: 3112 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC
Website: Tamales La Pasadita on Restaurantji
A beloved local favorite, this spot keeps it simple and super authentic. Expect classic tamales wrapped and steamed the traditional way, with plenty of flavor.
Tamale options include:
- Pork with green sauce
- Chicken with red sauce
- Cheese and jalapeño
You can grab a 3-tamale plate with rice and beans or order by the dozen for a crowd-pleasing holiday meal. Their pricing is family-budget friendly, too!
Guatelinda Restaurante & Panadería (East Charlotte)
Address: 6016 The Plaza, Charlotte, NC
Website: Guatelinda on Restaurantji
Guatelinda serves up Latin American comfort food with a warm, family-friendly vibe. Their tamales are Guatemalan-style, which means you might see banana leaf wraps instead of corn husks — and you’ll definitely taste the love.
Great for takeout or a sit-down meal with the kids, this is a nice spot to explore tamales beyond the typical.
Lempira Restaurant (South Blvd)
Address: 5906 South Blvd, Charlotte, NC
Website: lempirarestaurant.com
Known for Honduran and Central American cuisine, Lempira offers tamales that are a little different — and totally worth trying. Expect hearty fillings and a masa that’s steamed just right.
They typically offer:
- Chicken tamales
- Pork tamales
- Other rotating specials
It’s a great place to broaden your tamale traditions or introduce the kids to new flavors. Bonus: they have lots of other Latin American dishes if you want to mix it up.
Will there be tamales on your table?
Whether you’re after a dozen for Christmas Eve dinner, a few for the freezer, or just one warm tamale to eat in the car between errands — these Charlotte spots have you covered.
Tamales bring people together — and that’s really what the holidays are all about.
Know another great place to get tamales in Charlotte? Tell us in the comments — we’d love to check it out!
Looking for more places to dine this holiday season?
These Charlotte, NC Restaurants are Open on Christmas