Tempe Michelin star taco pop-up brings long lines to the Valley

Meat. Salt. Lime. Fresh corn tortillas. The combination seems simple, but the two-hour line snaking from Sixth Street around to Mill Avenue in downtown Tempe would prove otherwise.

Patrons are lining up for hours to experience what the Michelin Restaurant Guide called an “elemental and pure” dining experience from Mexico City chef Mario Hernandez Alonso.

Starting on Cinco de Mayo weekend, Alonso has brought a taste of the world’s only Michelin-starred taqueria, El Califa de Leon, to the Valley. Now, he’s set up in Tempe for a limited pop-up from May 22 to June 3.

For many in the Valley, this has been a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a dish from a Michelin-starred restaurant, in spite of the long lines and some grumbling about the price point. The tacos are $10 each, but the amount of meat on each 5-inch tortilla is not skimpy, and where else can you pay ten bucks and eat a dish from a Michelin-starred spot?

The event, hosted by C.A.S.A. Tempe and gringoapp.com, has created buzz in the local food scene, and continues this Monday and Tuesday from 4 to 10 p.m.

Along with your appetite, bring friends to make the wait more bearable. The menu is purposefully limited to replicate the offerings in Mexico City. With full slices of protein, the tacos are heartier than you would expect. Start with the gaonera, which includes a thinly sliced beef filet, salt and lime, then grab the chuleta (pork) and a chef-favorite costilla (beef-rib).

A dark red salsa adds depth and a kick of spice at the end, and an herbaceous green salsa brings the perfect pop of acidity to punch up the saltiness of the meat. Here’s a look a the unique event captivating crowds of taco fans in Tempe.