The taco frenzy has officially taken over Tempe.
From May 22 through June 3, El Califa de León—Mexico City’s legendary taquería and the only Michelin-starred taquería in the city—set up shop at C.A.S.A. Tempe on Mill Avenue for a limited-run pop-up. VivaPhoenix.com had the opportunity to attend and taste what all the hype is about.
Presented by GringoApp.com in celebration of Aeromexico’s new direct flight from Phoenix to Mexico City, the event delivered more than just tacos—it offered a cultural moment that brought some of Mexico’s best flavors straight to the Valley.
A special reception on June 29 welcomed Chef Mario Hernández Alonso of El Califa de León to Tempe, hosted by a gathering of prominent Latino influencers and community leaders. Tempe Mayor Corey Woods and Mexican Consul Jorge Mendoza Yescas were both in attendance to honor the chef and recognize the global influence of Mexican cuisine.
While some taco lovers reported wait times of up to two hours, we were fortunate to get a quick sneak peek—and it was worth every bite. We sampled the famed Taco Gaonera, featuring high-quality Tomahawk beef delicately sliced and cooked to tender perfection. At $10 each, these tacos come with a premium price tag, but the flavor and craftsmanship justify every dollar.
President, Arizona Market at Equity Health, Chef Mario Hernández Alonso of El Califa de León, Tomás Leon, President of Equity Health Foundation, local celebrity Chef Isidro “Chilo” Chacón, Gerardo Valenzuela, Sonora Government Representative to the United States, Consul General of Mexico Jorge Mendoza Yescas, Anthony Fimbres, Financial Operations at Scottsdale Unified School District, and Emilio Gayner, Board of Advisorts for the Arizona Diamondbacks and Chicanos por la Causa | Photo Credit: VivaPhoenix.com
The red and green salsas brought their own magic—layered, bold, and balanced in a way only a Michelin-starred kitchen can achieve. Every element felt intentional and elevated, yet true to the soul of street-style tacos.
If you missed the pop-up, we recommend keeping an eye out for future collaborations. But if you’re headed to Mexico City anytime soon, consider adding El Califa de León to your itinerary. For taco lovers, it’s a must-visit.
