Mami's Tamales

Mami's Tamales grew out of a home business that chef Maribel Colmenares began after her mother's death in 2020, cooking the tamales she learned to make in Puebla. Pop-ups followed, and in July 2024 she opened this Keong Saik Road shophouse with Mauricio Espinoza of Papi's Tacos. The 35-seat room is painted bright pink and hung with Mexican art.

Tamales, made from masa of nixtamalised corn and steamed in corn husk or banana leaf, are the reason to come: pork in salsa verde, chicken tinga, beef birria, cheese and roasted pepper, and a vegan mushroom pastor. Order a platter of four to share. Beyond those, try the chalupas poblanas, crab tostada, guacamole mixed at the table, chile relleno and Veracruz-style fish, then churros or a paleta for dessert.

It works well for groups and relaxed weekday dinners. Tuesdays bring a buy-two-get-one-free tamales deal, happy hour runs from noon to 7pm, and there is live Latin music on Sunday evenings. Closed on Mondays.