Family tradition on Whittier Boulevard since 1957Call ahead: (323) 722-2961
Traditional Mexican tamales unwrapped and ready to serve

East Los Angeles tamale tradition

Wrapped by hand.Remembered for generations.

Smooth corn masa, deeply seasoned fillings and the comforting aromas of a family kitchen—served from our Whittier Boulevard counter since 1957.

1957Family tradition begins
HandmadeFreshly prepared tamales
By the dozenMade for sharing
East LA5390 Whittier Boulevard

Welcome to Sandra's

Tamales that taste like home.

Sandra's Tamales is a walk-up Mexican food counter rooted in the traditions of East Los Angeles. Our tamales bring together tender corn masa, generous fillings and sauces with the depth of a recipe made again and again.

Choose red pork, beef or chicken; try green chile pork or green chile and cheese; or keep it sweet with corn and dulce tamales. We also serve Mexican comfort-food favourites, with availability changing through the week and season.

The Sandra's tradition

More than a meal on Whittier Boulevard.

A family counter with deep roots

First-generation owners Mr. and Mrs. Zamayoa established the restaurant in 1957. Across the decades, Sandra's became part of the food rhythm of East Los Angeles—a place where early mornings, holiday orders and everyday cravings all lead to the same walk-up counter.

Made for gatherings

Tamales naturally belong at the centre of a table. Customers come for a single warm tamale, a quick breakfast, or several dozen to share with family and friends. Special orders may require advance notice, so calling ahead is recommended when planning a larger gathering.

Mexican comfort beyond tamales

The kitchen has also been known for menudo, carnitas, enchiladas, chile rellenos, champurrado and buñuelos. Selection can vary, especially later in the day, when popular tamales may sell out.

Come early, bring an appetite and leave with something worth sharing.

From masa to table

Simple steps. Generational knowledge.

01

Prepare the masa

Corn masa is worked to create the smooth, tender texture that defines every tamale.

02

Fill & wrap

Seasoned meat, chile, cheese or sweet fillings are enclosed and wrapped by hand.

03

Steam & serve

The tamales are steamed until fragrant, comforting and ready for the counter.

Visit Sandra's Tamales

Come early. Take home tradition.

Find the walk-up counter on Whittier Boulevard in East Los Angeles. Popular items can sell out, and the restaurant is traditionally cash-only, so contact the team before making a special trip or placing a large order.

Address5390 Whittier Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90022
Tue–Sat6:00 AM–4:00 PM
Sunday6:00 AM–2:00 PM
MondayClosed
Welcoming neighborhood Mexican restaurant counter in Los Angeles
5390 Whittier BoulevardEast Los Angeles, California 90022

Planning a dozen—or several?

Call Sandra's Tamales for current availability and advance-order information.

Call (323) 722-2961