If you're a fan of tamales, you may have already caught a glimpse of the tamale battle taking over TikTok in San Jose. We are putting a spotlight on one and it's located right in the Walmart parking lot in San Jose. As bayareafoodies shared, an entrepreneur selling delicious tamales out of a white van at the Story Road Walmart has rapidly gained a following for offering tasty, authentic tamales - creating a whole new culinary experience for those fortunate enough to come across it.

The man behind the van is Sergio, and he proudly declared that his homemade tamales are the best at Walmart and that other Walmart tamale sellers get their supply from Costco (which can't even begin to compare to the steamy, spicy, moist, and juicy experience of his homemade tamales). If you're interested in trying out his famous tamales, you must arrive early in the morning, as they sell out fast. According to bayareafoodies, his pork ribs tamale is a must-try, offering a truly delectable experience.

 

@bayareafoodies #tamale #tamales #walmart #mexicanfood #bayarea #sanjose #parkinglot ♬ original sound - Fani

 

Word of Sergio's tamales grew, where customers expressed their delight in the quality and flavor of the tamales, with many vouching for the authenticity and generous amount of filling in each tamale. According to a Yelp review posted on June 16, 2023, Sergio no longer operates exclusively from the Walmart parking lot and has expanded his business to a new location at 2920 Alum Rock Ave, in front of Sabor Restaurant. Now named Tamales El Tamalero, they serve hundreds of spicy pork, mild pork, verde chicken, jalapeño cheese, and sweet corn tamales daily, along with specials that showcase Sergio's creativity.

(Sarah G.- Yelp)

Customers have been raving about the size, flavor, and perfect seasoning of the masa in the tamales. In another Yelp review, a customer describes the tamales as an inexpensive, filling meal for people on a budget. Priced at $4 per tamale, these mouth-watering tamales are a fantastic value given their quality, taste, and generous portion sizes.

Not only are the tamales top-notch, but the service is also outstanding, with Sergio expressing gratitude and appreciation for his customers' support. Patrons at Tamales El Tamalero describe the staff as welcoming and catering to customers' needs, creating a warm atmosphere that leaves a lasting impression and entices them to return for more delicious tamales. This unique culinary gem in San Jose serves not only as a testament to hard work and passion but also as a reminder that great food can come from the most unexpected places.

So, if you find yourself in San Jose, why not experience the delicious tamales for yourself by visiting Tamales El Tamalero at 2920 Alum Rock Ave. Just remember to arrive early, as they are open 7 days a week between 6:30 am to 3:00 pm or until they're sold out - and they sell out fast! The magic of the white van in the Walmart parking lot has become a brick-and-mortar reality, allowing even more people to savor and appreciate the amazing flavors of Sergio's homemade tamales.