09/19/2026
James Beard recognition…right here in Dunning?! 👏🏼🌽
I finally stopped into Santa Masa Tamaleria and now I understand the hype.
From the chicken tamal in salsa roja to the Tamal of the Month wrapped in Chihuahua cheese 🤤 and a café de olla to finish it off—SO good.
But what makes this place even better is the talent behind it. Chefs Danny Espinoza and Jhoana Ruiz were named 2026 James Beard Award semifinalists for Best Chef: Great Lakes. And getting to meet Jhoana and her dad while I was there made this neighborhood stop even more special. ❤️
I love showing you the restaurants, businesses and people that make Chicago’s neighborhoods feel like home.
📍 Santa Masa Tamaleria | Dunning, Chicago
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