Malena

Maléna - Review - West Adams - Los Angeles - The Infatuation

"Maléna opened inside West Adams’ Maydan Market in 2025, but we’ve had a crush on theirtamalesfor years. This Afro-Mexican spot has shifted from truck to brick-and-mortar, then back to truck, and now market stall, and through it all, their tamales have remained fluffy, well-seasoned, and stuffed to the brim with spicier-than-expected fillings. The pork stained bright red with California chiles burns in the best way possible, but if that’s too much, opt for the milder chicken rubbed with jalapeño salsa. Beyond tamales, they're also doingpozole (which you can order as a three-flavor flight), thick handmade tortillas spread with salsa and queso fresco, and crispy fish tacos called pescadillas." - Sylvio Martins