La Diabla on St-Laurent sold homemade tamales before they shut down (RIP). Although their moles and salsas survived the loss of their retail location and are still available around town, I knew of no replacement for their tamale fridge. La Tamalera is a worthy successor. Today they had three flavours (pork, chicken, cheese & jalapeƱo) and all were excellent. 2.50 each for takeout, 7 for a plate of two with a little bowl of beans and a tiny beer mug of seriously great cooked tomatillo salsa.
$4 seemed like a lot for their horchata, until a full litre of it arrived in a mason jar. The pink tint matched the bright decor, and the taste suggested added rosewater or hibiscus. More than enough for two to share.
We watched a parade of attractive food go by, destined for a large family seated at one of the five tables in this large, stylish but mostly empty space. The menu is scattered around a few (incomplete) chalkboards, and we needed some help to make sense of it (and discover the $7 tamales plate).
There were great-looking brunch options as well. Will be back. Overall, the food is on par with Tachido but the physical environment may need work for this place to pull in customers. Don't leave without checking out the bathroom.