Chilam – Gastrobar
by Abdon FLORES
When UNESCO decided in 2010 to include Mexican cuisine in the Intangible Cultural Heritage, it was not only paying homage to this worldwide known gastronomy, but contributing to enhance its popularity too. Paris, where UNESCO is based, has experienced since then a blossoming of small restaurants aiming to reinterpret Mexican gastronomy in the French capital. So far now, results have been rather positive.
Gastrobar Chilam is one of these successful efforts. A project that began as a food truck, was then developed by a Mexican entrepreneur from Chiapas and an Italian designer. Since last summer, the project became an established restaurant where a compelling concept was born. Many would wonder what a “Gastrobar” actually is. According to Chilam founders, it’s actually a gastronomical approach of Mexican cuisine but with affordable prices. Quite a challenge in a city like Paris where onerous is the everyday adjective.
The size of the place recalls a typical taquería in Mexico City, small but cozy. Even if the served dishes are what we could call fast food, they have a gourmet touch and a dressage that makes them shine. If you have tried authentic Mexican food in Mexico, you’ll be surprised how close Chilam’s dishes are from authenticity. Pipián, Cochinita Pibil, Frijoles refritos, Salpicón de res… a vocabulary that depicts a country’s culture through its gastronomy. The specialty is Lobster “al pastor” –a very Mexican way to cook meat or poultry– added with axiote –a Mayan spice–, chipotle and tequila. Definitely, a must try dish!
As in any taquería, traditional soft drinks are included in the menu; mezcal and Tequila as well as Mexican craft beers can be ordered. Next year will be a busy one for Chilam since two larger branches will open in the first quarter of the year, bringing more delight to the gastronomical scene in Paris. The Gastrobar is open Tuesday-Friday (19:00-22:30), Saturday (12:30-15:00 and 19:00-22:30) and Sunday (12:30-18:00). The address: 12 rue des Ecouffes, 75004, Paris.
