El Califa de León, the only Michelin-starred taquería in the world, is heading to North Texas to delight taco lovers.
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.
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 has been a culinary institution in Mexico for more than half a century, and is renowned for its minimalist approach, featuring a single counter that accommodates just a few diners.
Its 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.
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)
Matt York / AP
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.
“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.
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.
El Califa de León pop-up experience will be located at 6501 Hillcrest Ave. in University Park. tacoboutdallas.com.
