This Mexican Tacos restaurant is the first to get a Michelin star (and shows us that sometimes simplicity makes the difference)

In the heart of Mexico City, in the popular district of Cologne San Rafael, there is a small taqueria that is making itself talked about in the world of gastronomy. El Califa de León is a tiny place, with a few square meters and space for only 11 patrons who eat side by side. Despite this, he managed to obtain a Michelin star, a rare and prestigious recognition, especially for such a humble and traditional activity.

The simplicity that conquers the palates

With a menu that counts just four dishes, the Taqueria stands out for its philosophy: the less it is more. The secret, explains cook Arturo Rivera Martínez, lies in the simplicity of the ingredients and in the care with which they are chosen. The typical Taco is composed of an excellent quality corn tortilla, accompanied by tender beef, and two homemade sauces, one green and one red. The sauces, according to the Michelin guide, are almost accessory because goodness is perceived above all in the quality of the meat and in the freshness of the tortilla.

The Taco Gaonera: a tribute to tradition

Among the specialties of the restaurant, the Taco called Gaonera stands out, inspired by the famous Mexican bullfighter Rodolfo Gaonera. Born in 1968, this dish became a symbol of the Taqueria. The meat, cooked to perfection and flavored only with salt and lime, is immediately served in a fresh tortilla. The preparation is rapid and coordinated by a well -rooted team: one deals with the meats, another of the tortillas, and one manages orders. All at a very affordable price, around 5 dollars.

Excellence arises from authenticity

The first edition of the Michelin Guide in Mexico wanted to underline how Mexican cuisine is not only rich in flavors, but also a mix of cultural and territorial traditions. Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of Guide, underlined the importance of enhancing the regional kitchens and street food, thus recognizing the fundamental role of realities such as El Califa de León in the world gastronomic scene. El Califa de León shows that true excellence arises from authenticity, the quality of the ingredients and respect for traditions, even when the place is small and without frills.

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