A small Mexican taco stand earns a Michelin star with its fiery meat dishes

In a historic moment for Mexican cuisine, the first taco stand ever to receive a Michelin star has been crowned in Mexico City. Arturo Rivera Martínez, the chef behind the acclaimed Tacos El Califa de León, has been searing meat over an intensely hot grill for over 20 years, sticking to the same simple recipe that has won the hearts of countless customers.

Located in the San Rafael neighborhood, Tacos El Califa de León offers only four types of tacos, all made from high-quality cuts of beef. The secret to their success, according to Rivera Martínez, lies in the simplicity of their tacos – just a tortilla, red or green sauce, and top-notch meat.

Despite the prestigious recognition from Michelin, Rivera Martínez remains humble, opting for a Coke to accompany his award-winning tacos. The tiny 10-foot by 10-foot taco stand stands out among the posh restaurants typically awarded Michelin stars, showcasing the power of tradition and consistency.

With prices higher than the average taco stand, loyal customers like Alberto Muñoz continue to flock to Tacos El Califa de León for the unbeatable quality of the meat. As the restaurant faces challenges from nearby street vendors and changing political landscapes, owner Mario Hernández Alonso remains steadfast in preserving the authenticity of the business.

As the world grapples with the effects of the coronavirus pandemic, Tacos El Califa de León stands as a symbol of resilience and unwavering dedication to tradition. Despite the lack of sidewalk seating, customers stand shoulder-to-shoulder with street vendors, savoring every bite of the Michelin-starred tacos.

In a city known for its culinary diversity, Tacos El Califa de León has proven that sometimes, the key to success lies in staying true to your roots.