As the holiday season kicks off, the So Cal Tamal and Churro Company in Bakersfield is bustling with their delicious tamales and also invited us out learn how to make them.
Alex Ruiz, the owner, explained the cultural significance of tamales, saying, “It’s been a tradition for hundreds of years, and they say that the tamale was one of the most important foods in the Aztec culture that would bring families together.” The company offers traditional varieties, including chicken with red sauce, pork with green sauce, and cheese with jalapenos.
Chefs Lucy and Maria are getting ready to prepare dozens of Tamale for catering and walk-in orders. PHOTO: KBFX
Ruiz shared that tamales are especially popular during Christmas, with many customers ordering them by the dozen. “We get slammed every Christmas,” he said. The company also caters large events, providing tamales, rice, and beans for gatherings of up to 300 people.
KBFX
In addition to tamales, So Cal Tamal and Churro Company is expanding with a new location, So Cal Grilling Company, which will offer American food with a barbecue twist. Ruiz’s family, including his sons and wife, are spearheading the expansion. The company also operates a coffee shop called Cafeinado Coffee Co, as Ruiz describes it’s like a “Latin American Starbucks” vibe, offering classic drinks with a Mexican twist.
For those looking to embrace the holiday spirit, Ruiz invites them to visit and enjoy the flavors of East LA-style food at So Cal Tamal located on 3401 Pacheco Rd in southwest Bakersfield. “We’ve been going strong since we opened, probably about four years ago. People have been loving it,” he said.