new world cuisine

A few weeks ago, I was skimming through one of those free daily papers they hand out at metro when I stumbled across an article about the fast-food strikes in the US. It began: "The cornerstone of American gastronomy, fast food..." Then I stopped reading.

Ugh. It’s so widely accepted that French cuisine is the best in the world, but few people discuss how “out of touch and old-fashioned” it can be. And sure, fast-food was developed in the United States, harping on our love of convenience and efficiency... but it’s not our primary contribution to the gastronomic world. I’m not even trying to be a food snob; though I realize my dad’s distaste for McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, and KFC (all places of which I was once thrilled to dine at—what a treat!) have affected me.

I just can't be okay with the fact that (1) fast food is often the most readily available and cheapest option for so many Americans, and (2) that the world likes to translate this as preference, without any mention of our diverse cultural productions like cobb salad, jambalaya, chile con carne, grits, lobster rolls, buffalo wings, clam chowder, key lime pie, and even s'mores. Perhaps Americans haven’t always developed the healthiest dishes, but you cannot say we haven’t gotten creative, and at the origins of "American gastronomy", with very few resources. Clearly being abroad has made me increasingly defensive on our behalf. Sorry I'm not sorry?

Stepping down from my podium now :), I’d like to introduce you to one of the most recent American-ish arrivals to the Parisian food scene, Le Déppaneur. It’s where Lorelei, Rachael, and I spent our last girls night. Opened by the San Francisco-inspired food truck, Cantine California, the South Pigalle resto beautifully marries the natural elements and minimalist design of Southern California. And from the outside, looks like a diner. I felt so "at home" (other coast, same country) with a most delicious tequila cocktail in hand.

The menu, though short, is complete with milkshakes, tacos, burgers, and cheesecake. Unfortunately, with so much homegrown potential, I left unsatisfied. My plate of chicken tacos with black beans was totally under-spiced and the carrot cake was far heartier than I’d like any dessert to be. In the future, I think I’ll leave Mexican to my favorite venues and come back for the cocktails. Maybe the burgers, too—it’s always fun to taste how trendy, Parisian chefs innovate the staple of good ol' American barbecues!