Tiny 'bare bones' Mexican taco restaurant wins Michelin star
El Califa de Leon 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."
El Califa de Leon is one of 18 restaurants given either one or two stars in the inaugural Michelin Guide Mexico unveiled this week.
The longstanding family business specialises in just four types of tacos and has room for only a few customers at a time in the San Rafael district of Mexico City.
"This taqueria may be bare bones with just enough room for a handful of diners to stand at the counter but its creation, the Gaonera taco, is exceptional," the Michelin Guide said on its website.
"Thinly sliced beef filet is expertly cooked to order, seasoned with only salt and a squeeze of lime. At the same time, a second cook prepares the excellent corn tortillas alongside.
"The resulting combination is elemental and pure."
The Gaonera, which costs a little over four dollars, was created in honor of the celebrated Mexican bullfighter Rodolfo Gaona, whose nickname in the ring was "El Califa de Leon."
The restaurant was founded more than 50 years ago by the parents of current owner Mario Hernandez.
"My father said, 'Do you want me to tell you the secret of the meat? There is no secret," only "love and effort," the 66-year-old said outside, his voice full of emotion.
(with AFP)
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