El Tio Tamale Cart

Mexican Restaurant
Nassau & Manhattan av.TrenG, Brooklyn, NY 11222, United States
78 Rating

Overview

If you are exploring Greenpoint and want something that feels truly local, El Tio Tamale Cart is one of those places people talk about with real affection. Tucked near Nassau and Manhattan Avenue by the G train in Brooklyn, this modest cart has built a reputation that goes far beyond its simple setup. It is the kind of stop that regulars seem to treat like a neighborhood ritual, especially in the morning, when the tamales draw an eager crowd. What stands out immediately is how satisfying the food sounds from every angle: the tamales are known for being soft, moist, and full of flavor, with a hearty feel that makes them more than just a quick bite. They are also praised for offering a solid, filling portion, making them a smart choice when you want something comforting that still feels substantial. Among the options, the peppers and cheese tamale seems to be a standout favorite, bringing a rich, savory combination that keeps people coming back. Part of the charm of El Tio Tamale Cart is that it feels like more than a place to grab food; it feels like a familiar neighborhood fixture with personality. The vendor is remembered not only for the quality of the tamales but also for his warm, friendly energy, the kind of presence that turns a food stop into part of your day. There is also a sense of urgency that adds to the appeal, since the cart is known to sell out early, often by around 10 in the morning, which tells you everything about how sought-after these tamales are. With prices that feel refreshingly reasonable, especially for the quality people describe, El Tio Tamale Cart comes across as one of those rare street food finds that manages to be affordable, memorable, and deeply tied to its neighborhood identity.

Amenities

  • Identifies as Indigenous-owned
  • Identifies as Latino-owned
  • Curbside pickup
  • Drive-through
  • Takeout
  • Dine-in
  • Delivery
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Coffee
  • Comfort food
  • Prepared foods
  • Quick bite
  • Vegetarian options
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Casual
  • Family-friendly
  • LGBTQ+ friendly
  • Transgender safespace
  • Debit cards
  • Credit cards
  • Good for kids

Pricing

Chicken Tamales: 4 different flavors

Price

  • Chicken red Sauce....$3.50 $
  • Chicken Green Sauce...$3.50 $
  • Chiken Mole...$3.50 $
  • Cheese with Peppers...$3.50 $
  • Coffee...$2.00 $

Beverages

Price

  • Coffee $

Location

Customer feedback

5

out of 5.0

Mexican Restaurant Rating

  • 5 stars
    100 %
  • 4 stars
    1.3 %
  • 3 stars
    0 %
  • 2 stars
    0 %
  • 1 stars
    0 %

78 Reviews

  • Aldo Garcia

    Mar 08, 2026

    Best tamales in the neighborhood, they are tasty, moist, and good amount of protein. Amazing value, my favorite are peppers and cheese!! Must try if you are in the neighborhood.

  • Marcus Wood

    Mar 05, 2026

    Greenpoint Tamale guy is something of an instant legend. Seven days a week he's out selling the best tamales around. Three bucks a pop, always a smile and some great chat. Always sold out by 10am. Take my money!

  • Jane Grenier

    Mar 01, 2026

    I love Tio's tamales! The molé is my favorite, but you can't go wrong. Breathe in that masa goodness when the lid comes off the pot...mmmmmmmmm!!!

  • Natalia Obrycki

    Dec 31, 2025

    He is the sweetest guy and makes delicious tamales. I’ve been going every morning and buying like 10! Highly recommended trying him out

  • Amis Maldonado

    Dec 29, 2025

    Ordered $18 worth of tamales but didn’t have cash. Tio says, no worries, I’m here every day, come back and settle when you can Tamales so good. The masa is PERFECT, not too dry. So flavorful they don’t need extra salsa or sour cream. Community needs to crowdfund a few days off for him, he deserves it!

  • Margaret

    Dec 17, 2025

    Wonderful local biz! Delicious tamales and owner Jaime is very kind. He went out of his way to provide a large order for an event, and I am very appreciative. The tamales were a huge hit. Highly recommend!

  • Oliver

    Dec 07, 2025

    The man running the cart is very kind to his customers! This was my first ever tamale, and he gave us another one for free (per his recommendation for red sauce). Great deal at $3 per tamale.

  • Clare Maceda

    Nov 24, 2025

    Cannot recommend enough! One of the best tamales in the city for an insanely good price. The guy who runs it is so kind and generous. Support him! Good to note that he closes up when he runs out so good to get there before tenish.

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