Rio Tacos – Albuquerque, New Mexico
In May, Mexico City’s Tacos El Califa de León, in the downtrodden San Rafael neighborhood became the first Mexican taco stand to win a Michelin star. One of the things that makes its selection remarkable is that the taqueria is the antithesis of most Michelin starred restaurants. It’s not elegant and its tables aren’t set with immaculately pressed white linens. There are no sterling place-settings or fine china. Instead, the taqueria has no tables or seats. It’s standing room only with space for only a handful of guests and a metal counter on which they can balance their plates. Fittingly, the taqueria is all about tacos. There’s nothing else on the menu, only four options: bistec (seared steak), chuleta (thinly sliced pork chop), costilla (fork-tender beef) and the taqueria’s signature creation, the gaonera (whole steak). These four proteins are sliced thinly, prepared with lard on a plancha (grill) and seasoned with coarse salt and a squeeze of lime. While the chef is preparing each taco, handmade corn tortillas are being made alongside the grill. It’s all prepared to order. Tacos are served with your choice of two salsas. Michelin stars are a badge of honor, an honor coveted by…
