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Historic First: Mexican Taco Stand Awarded Michelin Star

Tacos El Califa de León in Mexico City earns prestigious recognition for its simple, unchanged recipe since 1968.

Chef Arturo Rivera Martinez prepares tacos at Taqueria El Califa de Leon restaurant in Mexico City on May 15, 2024. A hole-in-the-wall taqueria is among the first restaurants in Mexico to be awarded a star by the prestigious Michelin Guide -- an accomplishment its owner credits to "love and effort".
Taquería El Califa de León is the first ever Mexican taco stand to receive a Michelin star.
A diner tucks into one of popular tacos at the no frills eatery in Mexico City.
“The secret is the simplicity of our taco,” chef Rivera Martínez told reporters on Wednesday.

Overview

  • Chef Arturo Rivera Martínez continues traditional methods at the small 10-foot by 10-foot stand.
  • The menu features only four taco options, emphasizing quality meat and fresh tortillas.
  • El Califa de León is among 16 Mexican restaurants to receive a Michelin star, notable for its modest setup.
  • The stand's grill reaches an intense 680 degrees, crucial for its signature flavor.
  • Despite high prices by local standards, customers praise the unmatched quality of the tacos.