I love it when I get to watch a great food truck grow and take the leap to a brick and mortar establishment. 
It can be a tricky transition and many small business owners have to be so careful they don't bite off more than they can chew all in the name of growth.

I love what Tamale Co. has done with their expansion. Their first permanent location is in Altamonte Springs, away from the painful price per square footage in Orlando's core, but even more savvy in this brutal market filled with competition, they are keeping their footprint small and focusing on the food, while their truck still roams the streets of Central Florida showcasing their Mexican street fare.

You'll find their location behind a Citgo gas station on the corner of State Road 436 and Ronald Reagan Blvd. 

If you chose to dine-in, your are actually dining outside at 1 of 3 two-seater tables if they are available. There is a small "bar" inside on the wall, but it's not very conducive to eat at unless it's a few, very fast bites when there is no line of people inside. Otherwise, this is going to act much like their food truck; you are ordering and taking your food elsewhere. The parking isn't plentiful and definitely caters to grab n' go. However, that should not act as a deterrent in my opinion. 

They have a breakfast menu from 7AM - 11AM with 6 items to choose from including morning tacos, tamales scrambles, and a breakfast burrito. The most expensive item will run you $12.

The rest of their menu is a generous selection of side items or munchies, and fourteen different types of tamales with three vegan and three vegetarian options. Each one is priced at $11.

Each portion comes with two tamales, and rice and beans. You get quite a hearty portion and I for one couldn't finish my entire plate, although I got pretty close. I tried to conquer the chorizo tamale but, it bested me. The tamales are so soft, oozing with Chihuahua cheese backed by lots of spices and queso fresco. 

Never one to say no to elote, even if it means unbuttoning my pants briefly on the car ride home, I made sure to order one. It was really good, but if I had one personal wish it would be a little less mayo and more Cotija cheese. 

Overall, I'm so excited for a permanent place to grab tamales when the mood strikes me, made by some kind and hardworking local people.

Tamale Co. is located at 1006 E Altamonte Dr #1002, Altamonte Springs. 
Follow their facebook for their hours and their food truck schedule.

All photographs belong to me, and all food was paid for by me.