If you’ve ever traveled long term in France (or in any other country), you know that even if you have been eating the most refined delicacies, sometimes you just want a burger (or a tac0). Sadly, most burgers and tacos in Europe are crap. Serious crap. Thankfully, a few California-Americans have infiltrated the foodie scene in Paris with American style food trucks. Of these, Camion California and Le Camion Qui Fume have taken Paris by storm. They are talked about world wide, and while they were already on my list of places to visit in Paris, I moved up my visit after having done Escargot 4 days out of 7 in Beaune. The truck changes location, and while they do have a twitter stream, I find it was much easier to just find their location on their website. The menu is quite simple: burgers, tacos, and (because it would not be “American” without it) cupcakes. We arrived fearing the dreaded hour line that Cantine California is known for. For whatever reason (could be the frigid 35 degree weather), the line was quite short (and effective). While on line, someone took orders the kitchen executed. Very streamlined process. I had been craving a burger for days, so I went for the Cali Classic: grilled organic beef, real cheddar cheese, organic bacon, tomato, red onion, pickles, lettuce, avocado and our home made sauce (tasted like Russian dressing). This was a goddamned good burger. I mean GOOD! Suddenly I was channeling Samuel L. Jackson in Pulp Fiction. It was juicy and flavorful. The bacon was just salty enough. And the French Fries were spectacular. All I was missing was yellow squeeze cheese to dip my fries into. This was fantastic American Food. This truck must be replicated on the UWS of Manhattan….mmmmmm! Antonio got the Carnitas Taco: organic pork shoulder simmered spicy with homemade tortillas, chipotle salsa, black beans, cilantro, & lime. I would have gotten this too if I was not already feeling like Ms. Piggy after ordering my burger. It was as authentic as it gets to Tex-Mex. The tortilla was off the hook delicious. This is the first time we’ve both had “Mexican” food in Europe that it was not screwed up. These guys could give any truck in California a run for their money. The verdict? Go. Screw Michelin stars. Hit up this place as soon as you land in Paris. Miam Miam!
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