A Cozy Taco Stand in Mexico Makes History with a Michelin Star
Discover the remarkable story of Taquería El Califa de León, a humble taco stand offering just four menu items, now proudly holding the prestigious title of being the first Mexican street food vendor to receive a Michelin star recognition on the renowned Michelin Guide.
A small taco stand in Mexico with only four items on its menu has received a star from the prestigious Michelin Guide.
Taquería El Califa de León, situated in the San Rafael neighborhood of Mexico City, was one of the restaurants to earn one or two stars in the inaugural Michelin Guide Mexico. This makes it the first Mexican taco stand to be recognized with this honor.
Chef Arturo Rivera Martínez, a familiar face at Taquería El Califa de León for over 20 years, received the prestigious white chef’s jacket as he prepared his famous tacos on Wednesday.
Taquería El Califa de León is the first ever Mexican taco stand to receive a Michelin star.
Taquería El Califa de León is the first ever Mexican taco stand to receive a Michelin star.
Fernando Llano/AP
Rivera Martínez shared with the Associated Press that the key to our taco's deliciousness lies in its simplicity. It only consists of a tortilla, red or green sauce, and high-quality meat.
Taquería El Califa de León has been a popular spot for over 50 years, despite its narrow size of about 10 feet. One of its famous offerings is the Gaonera taco, believed to be named after Mexican bullfighter Rodolfo Gaona.
A statement on the Michelin Guide website praises the Gaonera taco, calling it exceptional. Despite its small size and simple setup, this taqueria has created a standout dish.
A diner tucks into one of popular tacos at the no frills eatery in Mexico City.
A diner tucks into one of popular tacos at the no frills eatery in Mexico City.
Silvana Flores/AFP/Getty Images
The chef skillfully cooks thinly sliced beef filet just the way you like it, seasoned with salt and a touch of lime for added flavor.
While the meat is being prepared, another cook is busy making delicious corn tortillas to go with it. When the two come together, the result is a simple yet perfect combination of flavors.
Rivera Martínez, when asked about his top drink recommendation to pair with the "exceptional" tacos, simply stated, "I like a Coke."
In addition to the Gaonera taco mentioned earlier, customers have the option to choose from three other meat-filled variations, such as bistec (beef steak) filling, all served on a plastic plate for approximately $5.
“With meat and tortillas of this caliber, the duo of house-made salsas is hardly even necessary,” says the Michelin Guide.
“The secret is the simplicity of our taco,” chef Rivera Martínez told reporters on Wednesday.
“The secret is the simplicity of our taco,” chef Rivera Martínez told reporters on Wednesday.
Silvana Flores/AFP/Getty Images
Quintonil, a fine dining restaurant led by chef Jorge Vallejo and Alejandra Flores, has been honored with two stars by Michelin. Another acclaimed establishment, Rosetta, helmed by chef Elena Reygadas, has been awarded one star. Both restaurants were featured in Michelin's inaugural rankings for Mexico.
Michelin Guide inspectors focused their attention on Mexico City, Oaxaca, Baja California, Los Cabos, and Nuevo León. They traveled extensively throughout the country in search of the most exceptional culinary experiences available.
Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the Michelin Guides, expressed his delight in celebrating the special diversity of Mexican cuisine in Mexico City.
The initial selection of restaurants reflects the country's commitment to highlighting its various regions, each with its own unique cultures and traditions that set them apart.
Back in 2016, chef Chan Hon Meng’s Singapore stall became the first street-food establishment to be recognized by the distinguished guide.
Editor's P/S:
The recognition
