ZipPicks Awards
Best Mexican in Flushing
Master Critic Review
Flushing Mexican Tamales Cart 2
7.9
Flushing Mexican Tamales Cart 2 is a tiny Roosevelt Avenue cart tucked behind the Queens Savings Bank, serving handmade tamales for a few dollars apiece. Regulars treat it as a quick stop for warm masa, straightforward fillings, and a friendly greeting on their way to or from the subway.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicken tamales, Pork tamales with red chile, Cheese tamales with mild green chile
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.7
What makes it special: A Roosevelt Avenue streetside cart focusing on simple, homemade tamales at true everyday prices.
Who should go: Commuters wanting fast, handheld Mexican comfort on the go
When to visit: Late morning or early afternoon when fresh batches hit
What to order: Chicken tamales, pork tamales, cheese tamales with green chile
Insider tip: Bring cash and ask which flavors just came out of the steamer for the warmest, fluffiest tamales.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; expect competition around Roosevelt Avenue, especially midday. Best luck on side streets near 134th–135th.
Dress code: No dress code — casual streetwear is perfectly appropriate.
Noise level: Low to moderate street noise depending on traffic and foot activity around the subway corridor.
Weekend wait: Typically no wait; service is grab-and-go and moves quickly.
Weekday lunch: Short line during commuter rush, usually 5 minutes or less.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese-and-green-chile tamales or occasional vegetable fillings when available.
Vegan options: Limited — masa is generally vegan, but fillings vary; ask which options contain dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes — traditional tamales made with masa are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contact cannot be guaranteed at a street cart.
Best For
Better for: Warm, inexpensive tamales made fresh throughout the day — faster, cheaper, and more comforting than many sit-down Mexican spots nearby.
Consider Alternatives If: You want seating, a broad menu, or a full meal experience beyond quick street-style tamales.