In a surprising turn of events, a tiny taqueria in Mexico City has been awarded a prestigious Michelin Guide star, making it the first of its kind to receive such an honor. Tacos El Califa de Leon, located in the San Rafael neighborhood, has captured the hearts and taste buds of diners with its simple yet exceptional offerings.
Named after the legendary Mexican bullfighter Rodolfo Gaona, the taqueria has been serving up delicious tacos for over 50 years. The current owner, Mario Hernandez, proudly shared the secret to their success – “love and effort.” With only four items on the menu, all centered around different cuts of beef, Tacos El Califa de Leon has managed to impress even the most discerning of palates.
The Michelin Guide praised the taqueria for its Gaonera taco, highlighting the expertly cooked beef filet and handmade corn tortillas. Chef Arturo Rivera Martinez emphasized the simplicity of their taco, attributing the quality of the meat as the key to their success. Surprisingly, when asked about beverage pairings, Martinez revealed that he prefers a classic Coke to accompany their flavorful tacos.
This recognition comes as the Michelin Guide unveiled its first Mexico edition, with 18 restaurants receiving one or two stars. Among them, Quintonil and Pujol in Mexico City were the only two to receive two stars, showcasing the country’s diverse and innovative culinary scene. As the Michelin Guide continues to expand its reach globally, Tacos El Califa de Leon has proven that exceptional dining experiences can come in all shapes and sizes, even in a humble 10-foot by 10-foot taqueria.