When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Tamales by La Casita
Why Tamales by La Casita is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Tamales by La Casita stands out as a cherished spot to enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine in Denver, renowned especially for its handmade tamales that have been crafted with dedication since 1974. Founded by Paul Sandoval and run by the Sandoval family, this family-owned business has become a Denver tradition, offering a menu rooted in New Mexican flavors. The tamales are made fresh daily with care and the best ingredients, including specialty red and green chiles sourced from Española and Hatch, New Mexico respectively. Beyond tamales, visitors can enjoy a variety of Mexican dishes, making it an excellent place for friends and family to gather. The restaurant’s warm, family-run atmosphere combined with a history of nearly five decades contributes to a down-to-earth local dining experience. Whether meeting for a casual lunch, enjoying a quick bite on the go, or celebrating a special occasion with pre-ordered tamales, Tamales by La Casita excels in delivering comfort food steeped in tradition. This mix of authentic taste, cultural heritage, and family pride makes it a memorable destination to share authentic Mexican flavors with friends.
Here's what people think of Tamales by La Casita
As of recent, Tamales by La Casita holds a 3.7-star rating based on 596 reviews.
Reviews of Tamales by La Casita are mixed, reflecting a 3.7-star rating from nearly 600 reviewers. Many customers praise the restaurant for its authentic and flavorful tamales, highlighting the freshness of the food and the friendly service. Positive reviews often mention the tamales as some of the best in Colorado, appreciating the careful preparation and the balance of flavors in both vegetarian and meat options. The family-run vibe and long-standing tradition are also frequently celebrated, making it a beloved local institution for regulars. On the downside, some reviewers criticize the consistency and flavor, describing certain experiences as average or underwhelming, with a few negative comments comparing the food unfavorably to typical airport cuisine. Wait times during busy periods, particularly holidays, and occasional long lines have also been mentioned as drawbacks. However, overall, the positive reviews outnumber the negative, suggesting that while there might be occasional lapses, the majority of customers find Tamales by La Casita a reliable spot for delicious, authentic tamales. This blend of feedback underscores a restaurant that is deeply rooted in tradition and generally well-regarded, though some inconsistencies may exist in the dining experience.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Lisa E. (Peachy in Georgia)
We didn't have time to eat here but our flight attendant says this is THE BEST food at the concourse. We had to get McDonalds but from what I saw, they were managing the crowd efficiently and the food looked and smelled awesome.
Arielle Lok
all airport food should be this cheap and plentiful and delicious. incredible value for denver airport. the habanero salsa is super banger. sucks that guac is $3.50 extra tho
Matt Peters
If you're a pepperhead like me, the hottest hot sauce here will not disappoint. They also have milder options for the more cautious or spice-averse. The food is fresh, flavorful, and surprisingly well priced for airport food. This place always seems to be busy, but you can generally still find a few empty tables to choose from.
Nicholas P
Service was great. Employees were all nice, I didn’t receive any of that “rude” service that was in other reviews. We got the frito pie and the taco salad. Both were pretty decent for airport Mexican food. I think people need to lower their standards when comparing airport food to like popular franchises like Chipotle.
Michelle
Yo idk what all the bad reviews are about but I just got two chicken hard shell tacos with veggies, queso, and their hot salsa and it was absolute fire yall. Best airport food ever yall. Would re-order what I just did for a second round
How to reach Tamales by La Casita
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Why Tamales by La Casita may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Tamales by La Casita with your friends?
Tamales by La Casita offers an authentic, flavorful, and inviting experience ideal for gathering with friends and family. The business is known for its fresh, hot tamales bursting with excellent flavor, especially their Breakfast Burritos and the much-praised Green Chile tamales. This place is not just about food but about connection—Paul, one of the owners, is known for his warm, genuine appreciation of returning customers, creating a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit special. The casual environment encourages relaxed, comfortable conversation and shared enjoyment of traditional Mexican dishes. Amidst its busy yet efficient service, the offering remains reasonably priced, making it perfect for groups who want quality without breaking the bank. Its reputation as a family-owned business exudes a sense of care and community, reinforcing why it’s a beloved spot in Denver. Whether stopping by for a quick bite or settling in for a casual meal, Tamales by La Casita creates the perfect backdrop to catch up with friends or celebrate a casual family outing with excellent food served with a local touch.
What activities and features make Tamales by La Casita perfect for a group meetup?
Tamales by La Casita provides several elements that make it a fantastic choice for group gatherings. First, the space emphasizes a chill, casual atmosphere where guests can feel at ease, ideal for low-key meetups. The kitchen is spotless, and service is notably fast and friendly, which means groups don’t have to wait long to enjoy their meals and can focus on their conversations and activities. The menu offers flexibility with dishes that can be tailored from mild to very spicy, accommodating varying tastes within a group. This customization ensures everyone can enjoy their food, from those who prefer gentle flavors to heat lovers. For larger groups, the option to order tamales by the dozen and paired with a quart of chile is perfect for sharing and sampling multiple varieties, promoting communal dining. There’s also a selection of drinks including reasonably priced draft beers, bottled beverages, tequila, and margaritas, which can enhance the social aspect of a meetup. Located in a lively neighborhood with lots of parking options, it’s easy for groups to convene and then continue exploring nearby attractions or just enjoy the surrounding area.
How is the food at Tamales by La Casita suited to group dining experiences?
The menu at Tamales by La Casita is designed to cater to diverse tastes, which is key for a successful group experience. Their tamales, a signature dish, are fresh, hand-made, and served hot, providing a delightful, authentic taste of Mexican cuisine. You’ll find both green and red chile tamales which are crowd-pleasers due to their bold, rich flavors. Breakfast burritos are another highlight, often recommended by regulars as a must-try item. The fresh ingredients and consistent quality mean your meetup can revolve around great food everyone enjoys. Additionally, their ability to adjust spice levels makes it easy to please people with different heat tolerances. For those with dietary concerns, although the tamales themselves are not gluten-free, some side dishes like rice and meat beans are, allowing a measure of accommodation. Price-wise, the dishes are affordable for group dining, and ordering in larger quantities is straightforward and cost-effective. The option to get take-out or dine in broadens how a group can organize their meal, whether they want to relax inside or enjoy a casual gathering elsewhere with their food.
What is the atmosphere and space like at Tamales by La Casita?
The atmosphere at Tamales by La Casita is informal, friendly, and welcoming, which fosters an ideal setting for social gatherings. The seating arrangement includes a space away from the bar that is suitable for families or groups seeking a quieter area, which means your group can have privacy and room to chat comfortably. This layout is thoughtful, addressing the needs of different types of visitors. The open-air patio is a particularly attractive feature for those who prefer dining outdoors, where fresh air and Denver’s pleasant weather can enhance the meetup. The vibe is casual and unpretentious; you won’t feel rushed or pressured, encouraging lingering and more in-depth conversations. The staff’s friendly, efficient service contributes to an experience that feels personal and attentive despite the place being busy at times. This combination of factors ensures the location supports group dynamics well, making it feel like a shared celebration rather than just a meal.
How convenient is Tamales by La Casita for groups in terms of location and accessibility?
Tamales by La Casita is very accessible for groups due to its strategic location in Denver’s Highland/Lower Highland neighborhood, a vibrant area that is easy to reach from various parts of the city. The availability of a parking lot alongside on-street parking options removes common hurdles that groups face when planning meetups, particularly with multiple vehicles involved. While the restaurant does not accept reservations, its efficient and friendly counter service helps keep wait times manageable even during busy hours, so groups are less likely to be inconvenienced. The proximity to popular local attractions means your group can expand the meetup experience by combining dining with sightseeing or other activities, making it suitable for out-of-town visitors or those looking to enjoy a day out. The casual dress code and open hours from early morning through the evening add to its convenience, allowing meetups at various times to fit different schedules and preferences.
What variety of drinks and extras does Tamales by La Casita offer for a complete group experience?
A meetup isn’t just about food; drink options also play a crucial role, and Tamales by La Casita caters well in this department. The establishment offers a full bar, which includes craft and draft beers, bottled drinks, tequila, and margaritas. These provide a festive element to the gathering and enable groups to toast, celebrate, or simply unwind as they catch up. Alcoholic beverages to go add an element of flexibility if your group chooses to continue socializing elsewhere. Moreover, sides like guacamole, black beans, and rice complement the mains perfectly and are budget-friendly additions to share among friends. The pricing is reasonable, meaning that groups can indulge without worrying about a steep bill, encouraging relaxed, extended visits. Small extras, such as sour cream to balance spicy dishes, show attention to guests’ preferences and make the dining more enjoyable and complete.
Why do locals and visitors consistently choose Tamales by La Casita for their meetups?
The loyalty of locals and positive visitor impressions stem from the blend of authentic, flavorful food and warm service that Tamales by La Casita provides. Many patrons speak fondly of the family-owned vibe and the personal touch from owners like Paul, who recognize and welcome returning guests. This connection makes diners feel valued beyond just customers, reinforcing a sense of community that is hard to find in many dining spots. The consistent quality of the food — especially the renowned green chile tamales — means that people return not only for the ambiance but also for the memorable taste experience. The efficient, friendly service during busy periods shows professionalism as well as genuine care. All these factors combine to make Tamales by La Casita a go-to place for groups looking to rally, whether for casual meetups or small celebrations, etched with delicious food and a welcoming atmosphere.
What are the best tips to maximize your group’s experience at Tamales by La Casita?
To get the most out of a visit to Tamales by La Casita with friends or family, consider a few simple tips. Arriving a little earlier or during non-peak hours can help avoid potential waits and give your group more relaxed time to settle in. Ordering a variety of tamales by the dozen alongside shared sides like rice, beans, and guacamole encourages tasting and sharing, turning the meal into a fun, interactive occasion. Don’t hesitate to ask the staff for spice recommendations to ensure everyone’s flavor preferences are met. Plan to enjoy drinks like margaritas or craft beers to add to the social vibe, and consider dining on the open-air patio when weather permits for a lively, refreshing environment. Lastly, take advantage of nearby attractions to extend your meetup into a full day out, turning a simple meal into a memorable group event filled with great food, engaging conversation, and enjoyable surroundings.