Two Bites Worth Driving For: Tamale Shak and Happy Leaf
- Trae Spears
- Jul 18
- 2 min read
We ate a lot this week. No regrets.
Trae and Wyatt here, and this round of GoTryatt took us to two spots that could not be more different and somehow both left us saying the same thing: we're going back.
Tamale Shak
First stop was Tamale Shak, a small, quaint little spot with big flavor packed into every corner of the kitchen.
Trae ordered the chicken quesadillas with salsa, and honestly, it might be one of the best quesadillas he's ever had. Loaded with chicken and cheese, crisped just right, gone way too fast.
Wyatt went with the tamale pie. Four tamales, cheese, chili, black beans, and pico, with a side of their signature Shak sauce, which brings real heat and real flavor in equal measure. The tamales themselves were melt in your mouth good!
Service was friendly and fast, which matters just as much as the food when you're hungry and impatient (we are always both). We also spotted their loaded tacos and nachos on the way out, and we've heard the burritos are something special. Next visit is already planned in our heads.
Happy Leaf
Second stop, Happy Leaf, and we walked in with no wait at all. That did not last. By the time we sat down, the line was out the door. We understand why now.
Trae had the shrimp poboy with fries, and this thing was stuffed. Fried shrimp, lettuce, tomato, pickles, all packed into that sandwich with no shortcuts taken. A little ketchup on top and it was perfection. The fries were crinkle cut, seasoned well, and crispy the whole way through.
Wyatt ordered the pulled pork poboy with honey bbq sauce, and if you like options, Happy Leaf has a wall of sauces to choose from. The pulled pork itself was excellent, generous, and full of flavor.
We also split an order of hushpuppies, and these might be the standout of the whole meal. Crisp on the outside, soft and melt in your mouth on the inside.
The best part of the visit might have been meeting Ms. Celeste, the owner. She came over to talk with us and shared that she's only owned the restaurant for about 40 days after taking it over from the previous owner. She's working hard to get the name out there, and after this meal, we're happy to help spread the word. The food came out hot, fast, and full of flavor, and that line forming behind us made total sense.
Worth the Trip
Two totally different menus, two totally different vibes, same result. Full plates, DELICIOUS food, and people behind the counter who care about what they're serving.
If you own a restaurant, run a food truck, or have a recipe you're proud of and want an honest take from us, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out anytime at hey.traeandwyatt@gmail.com.
More reviews coming soon. Go Tryatt.
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