Manuel’s Odessa Tortilla & Tamale Factory

If you are looking for delicious Mexican food that leans toward the more authentic side of the cuisine than this is the place for you. Wonderful dining atmosphere, and friendly staff. I ordered the tacos and they were quite hot and tasty. Would recommend this place.

Manuel’s is one of the oldest restaurants still operating in this area, dating back I believe to 1946. It has been a year or so since we have gone but the food and service was quite good. The décor is very retro and looks like most of it may be original, and it appears fairly well-​maintained. It’s in a part of town which at one time would have been the main highway for all traffic through Odessa but is now kind of in a run-​down area. There are several dining rooms and a bar but it seems like some of the rooms are not as often used. They have the standard tex-​mex bill of fare, enchiladas, fajitas, chile con queso, sopapillas etc. but it is certainly better than the average.
It’s great for experiencing an authentic part of Odessa history with good food. However the hours they are open, at least when we went, were limited. I think they serve lunch most days but maybe supper only on Fridays. It would be good to call ahead to get their hours just to make sure.

Great chicken and pork tamales! Cheese dip was awesome too (addictive). Buy 6 doz and get a little cooler to carry them in. Can’t beat it