Chef Arturo Rivera from the renowned restaurant El Califa de León experienced confusion when awarded a Michelin star. Instead of expecting a material prize, like tires for his car, he found recognition for the quality of his dishes. In an interview with Jessie Cervantes, Rivera shared his experience.
The company executives initially did not reveal the award; they summoned him for a meeting with Mexican chefs. Upon learning that he would receive a Michelin star, he was unable to attend due to his father's hospitalization for health complications. Nevertheless, the next day, at the taquería in CDMX, he received the well-deserved recognition.
Chef Rivera expressed his initial bewilderment upon discovering that it was not tires as he expected, but an important culinary award. Despite the difficult circumstances he was going through, he was pleasantly surprised by the distinction received.
The El Califa de León restaurant, known for its delicious tacos, offers a variety of dishes at affordable prices. From steak tacos to the house specialty, gaonera, prices range from 53 to 82 pesos. To accompany them, soft drinks, flavored waters, and natural water are offered, with costs ranging from 33 to 35 pesos.
Open from Monday to Sunday from 11:00 until 2:00 the following day, El Califa de León is located at Avenida Ribera de San Cosme number 56, San Rafael neighborhood, Cuauhtémoc borough, Mexico City, and is known for being the only taquería with a Michelin star.
The history of El Califa de León dates back to 1968, becoming one of the most popular taquerías in Cuauhtémoc. Recognized for the creation of the gaonera taco, made with "tender and soft" meat, the taquería has gained renown for the quality of its dishes.
