La Mesa Tortillas and Tamales is officially celebrating 30 years of rolling out Tucson’s favorite scratch-made tortillas and tamales! Founded in 1996 by Jerry and Geri Aguilar, this local landmark has grown from a single shop into a multi-generational family tradition. To honor three decades in the Old Pueblo, they are celebrating all year long with a brand-new commemorative storefront mural at their Broadway location. Painted by local artist Matthew Rey Robles, the artwork beautifully depicts the Aguilar family’s early days when the shop first opened. The front of the mural features the Aguilars’ grandchildren, proudly symbolizing the next generation carrying the legacy forward
Three Decades of Authentic, Scratch-Made Flavor
Back in 1996, owner Jerry Aguilar noticed that the east side of town lacked a dedicated spot to buy warm, hot-off-the-griddle tortillas. With the help of his mother and grandmother, Jerry perfected an authentic family recipe that remains entirely unchanged today.
Carrying the Torch: The Second Generation
Today, that same passion is carried into the second generation by Alex Aguilar (General Manager and Head of Operations) and Danielle Aguilar Pickering (Head of Marketing and Purchasing). Together, they honor the family legacy while guiding our daily operations into the future.
The La Mesa Difference
Every single tortilla at La Mesa Tortillas and Tamales is meticulously stretched, pressed, and griddle-cooked by hand without any artificial preservatives or additives. We bag them while they are still steaming hot, ensuring unparalleled softness, freshness, and authentic flavor for your table.
Expanded Flavors & Dietary Options
While their award-winning original flour and corn tortillas remain the main event, La Mesa Tortillas and Tamales functions as both a local grocery market and a casual lunch counter. They have expanded their menu to feature exciting alternative flavors and dietary options:
· Fresh Tamales: Hand-rolled year-round, featuring authentic varieties like Red Chile Beef, Red Chile Pork, Sweet Green Corn, and savory Red Chile Chicken.
· New Vegan Option: Plant-based eaters can now enjoy delicious, authentic tamales stuffed with perfectly seasoned Red Chile Jackfruit…