Mexico City's Reliable Taco
Mexico City's restaurant scene runs from fine dining to street stalls; Taquería El Califa sits at the most useful intersection between the two. A multi-location institution serving proper, careful tacos at honest prices and at the long hours the city's nightlife requires.
The cooking is Mexico City taco-canon at restaurant-grade discipline: al pastor cut from the trompo to order, suadero, bistec, the marinated and grilled fillings the format demands. The salsa programme is taken seriously.
What to Order
Al pastor with pineapple, the dish El Califa's reputation is built on. Suadero for the diner who wants the slow-cooked beef brisket. Gringa as a more substantial option. Salsas at the table — the green and red are reliably excellent.
The Format
The format is taco-counter at its most direct. Standing tables, quick service, the steady late-night rotation of locals dropping in.
Best Occasion: Solo Dining
El Califa is one of Mexico City's most natural solo-dining rooms. The format requires nothing; the bartender will guide; a solo diner can eat well, quickly, and inexpensively at any hour the city is awake.