Introduction to El Califa de León
El Califa de León, the only Michelin-starred taquería in the world, is heading to North Texas to delight taco lovers. This renowned taquería has been a culinary institution in Mexico for more than half a century and is known for its minimalist approach, featuring a single counter that accommodates just a few diners.
The Pop-Up Experience
Find a pop-up featuring the cuisine of El Califa and celebrating Mexico City’s inimitable street food culture Oct. 15-28 at 6501 Hillcrest Ave. in University Park near Southern Methodist University. The activation is part of a series of pop-ups by GringoApp.com, which has had a successful run in Arizona and is now entering Texas.
A Michelin-Starred Taqueria
El Califa de León was honored for a second time in June by the Michelin Guide as the world’s first and still only Michelin-starred taqueria. The taqueria’s signature dish, the “Taco Gaonera,” features thinly sliced beef filet cooked to order, seasoned simply with salt and lime. The Michelin Guide noted this humble creation is “exceptional” and a key reason the taquería continues to endure.
The Venue and Experience
The venue is just steps from SMU and one block south of Snider Plaza in the former Red Stix space, adjacent to D.L. Mack’s. To preserve the Michelin-starred experience, the pop-up will focus primarily on a to-go, eat-on-the-spot format, reminiscent of Mexico City’s taquerias. A limited number of Chef’s Table reservations will be available for those seeking an elevated dining experience with no wait times.
About El Califa de León
“For 56 years, El Califa de León in Mexico City has been a coveted local secret,” said Brian Krupski, founder of GrinGO, in a news release. El Califa de León pop-up experience will be located at 6501 Hillcrest Ave. in University Park. tacoboutdallas.com.
The Chef Behind El Califa de León
Michelin-starred Chef Mario Hernández Alonso of El Califa de León taqueria in Mexico City, prepares tacos at a Cinco de Mayo pop-up event at The Mexicano, Monday, May 5, 2025, in Phoenix. (AP Photo/Matt York)
Conclusion
El Califa de León’s pop-up in North Texas is an exciting opportunity for taco lovers to experience the world’s only Michelin-starred taquería. With its minimalist approach and exceptional dishes, this taquería is sure to delight. The pop-up will be located at 6501 Hillcrest Ave. in University Park, and a limited number of Chef’s Table reservations will be available for those seeking an elevated dining experience.
FAQs
Q: What is El Califa de León?
A: El Califa de León is the world’s only Michelin-starred taquería, located in Mexico City.
Q: Where will the pop-up be located?
A: The pop-up will be located at 6501 Hillcrest Ave. in University Park, near Southern Methodist University.
Q: What is the signature dish of El Califa de León?
A: The signature dish is the “Taco Gaonera,” featuring thinly sliced beef filet cooked to order, seasoned simply with salt and lime.
Q: How long will the pop-up be open?
A: The pop-up will be open from Oct. 15-28.
Q: Can I make reservations for the pop-up?
A: A limited number of Chef’s Table reservations will be available for those seeking an elevated dining experience with no wait times.
Q: What is the format of the pop-up?
A: The pop-up will focus primarily on a to-go, eat-on-the-spot format, reminiscent of Mexico City’s taquerias.
