Best Mexican Lunch in Philly: Mole Poblano

If you’re hoping to taste the best tamales in Philly this weekend, you’re going to have to set your alarm clock. Mole Poblano typically sells out of its famous cornhusk dumplings stuffed with meat and salsa before most places open for brunch. Yes – they really are that good. We got the scoop on what makes this Mexican eatery, aside from its celebrated tamales, stand out on the Italian Market’s main drag.

Why do you think consumers voted Mole Poblano Best Mexican Lunch in Philly?

Our food is fresh and authentic, it’s consistently delicious, and we serve large portions at affordable prices. We take pride in using high quality ingredients, and our customers recognize and appreciate that.

What inspired the menu at Mole Poblano?

Before opening Mole Poblano, my wife and I made carnitas and handmade tamales from our home kitchen, selling them to Mexican workers at a West Philly meat packing plant, restaurants in City Center, and other spots. My wife is from San Mateo Ozolco, a small community on the slopes of Popocatépetl in Puebla, Mexico. That’s where the inspiration for our menu and the namesake of the restaurant come from. We keep our food simple and authentic to that region.

What would you say is your most popular dish?

We’re best known for our tamales. My wife and I start hand mixing the dough at 5:30am on weekends so the tamales are ready when we open at 8am; we’re typically sold out within a couple of hours. The Mole Poblano Platter is also popular, which features tender chicken smothered in our authentic mole sauce.

What sets Mole Poblano apart from other Mexican food in Philly?

Our weekend specials are unique and make us stand out. We offer a barbacoa platter every Saturday and Sunday, which we make from goat rather than the more common lamb. It’s braised for several hours in a garlicky guajillo chile marinade and served with a chickpea soup made from the braising juices. Our other weekend specials change, so there’s always something new to try on the menu.

Serving up delicious tamales and the best mole sauce north of the Rio Grande, Mole Poblano sets the bar for authentic Mexican food in Philly. The next time you’re walking along The Nine in search of tacos, tortas, enchiladas or something in between, you can order with confidence at this thriving, family-run eatery.