Lines formed down the block on December 10th, when residents lined up to enjoy tacos from Mexico City’s famed Taquería El Califa de León at Tacombi’s Arlington and Bethesda location. The tacos are available until December 26th at both locations (video below by Taste MoCo).
Tacombi announced their partnership with the first-ever Michelin-starred taquería, El Califa de Leon from Mexico City. Together Tacombi and El Califa de León have offered DMV residents the opportunity “to taste the bold flavors from the taquería’s celebrated menu for a limited time.” Open since 1968, the family-owned El Califa de León is the very first Michelin-starred taqueria in the world, receiving one star when the guide announced its inaugural Mexico rankings with just 4 memorable menu items.
The long lines have subsided, at least that was the case at lunch time on Wednesday, so you’re able to get a table. El Califa’s tacos can be found at both Tacombi Arlington (1550 Crystal Dr) and Bethesda (4749 Bethesda Ave) until December 26. The costilla tacos (beef) go for $14 for two, while the chauleta tacos (pork) go for $12 for two. You can get both for $22 (four tacos total). We stopped by recently and spoke with those who tried the tacos.
An employee told us, “they don’t look like most tacos you’ll find around here, and that could be good or bad depending on the person.” One customer, Fernanda Martinez, said “Bomb.com, literally. Just how they taste in Mexico City.” Another told us that she was apprehensive based on the pictures because “they just didn’t look like the tacos I eat, but they were actually so good.” Of course, as with any food item, there will be plenty who will love the appearance and taste and plenty who won’t and social media comments will be sure to reflect it.
Tacombi writes, “During a trip to Mexico City and over many rounds of tacos, El Califa de Leon Owner Mario Hernandez Alonso and Tacombi Founder Dario Wolos dreamed up the idea of collaborating. It will be the first time these Michelin-starred tacos come to the U.S. “We are honored to partner with El Califa de Leon and share their tradition with our guests across Tacombi,” says Founder Dario Wolos.“
View this post on Instagram