Tucked along East Broadway Road in Mesa, Arizona, Panadería y Carnicería La Estrella is the kind of neighborhood gem that locals have quietly treasured for years. Word has finally gotten out, though, because this small but mighty bakery and carnicería is now being celebrated for serving some of the best tamales in all of Arizona in 2026.
From freshly baked pan dulce to slow-cooked meats sizzling outside, this place packs incredible flavors into every single visit. If you have never stopped in, consider this your sign to go.
The Tamales That Started It All
Someone once spent $117 on two dozen tamales here, and honestly, that story says everything. At Panadería y Carnicería La Estrella, the tamales have built a reputation so strong that a published article once named them the best in Arizona, and curious foodies showed up just to confirm it for themselves.
One recent reviewer wrote, “So far best I’ve had in Az,” after reading that exact claim. The tamales are made with care, packed with seasoned fillings, and wrapped the traditional way…