There are days made for enjoyment without too many rules, for having fun and, if necessary, throwing away gym hours —from the day or even the whole week—. And that's perfectly fine. Life is also about that. Occasionally, surrendering to the charms of food porn is not only not bad, but almost necessary: being in front of that food that catches your eye, that instantly seduces you, and that you want to sink your teeth into even knowing it's not exactly light.
A good place to let yourself go with this concept is the burger joint El Tarantín Chiflado. Its proposal takes the idea to the extreme, with daring and unconventional combinations that probably wouldn't convince burger purists. But that's the charm. Because, as mentioned, there are days when the rules relax and the only thing that matters is enjoying without remorse.
From this imagination come proposals that use donuts instead of buns or add abundant layers of melted cheese, but one combination, though outlandish, is the most contained within the chaos and winner of the Champions Burger València 2024: 'La Mejor'. Its style is influenced by American cuisine, with certain Latin American touches, reinforcing its powerful and distinct identity.
When the waiter serves it and places it on the table, it's imposing: tall, loaded, excessive, yet irresistibly attractive. The base is a shiny, well-toasted brioche bun, already suggesting that characteristic sweet note. Inside, there's jopo-style ribs, a crispy fried smoked cheese bomb, chopped sirloin, and caramelized pickles in Japanese barbecue sauce. Alongside, a syringe with Gucci sauce finishes the ensemble with a slightly spicy touch, which can be requested on the side to control the intensity.
The result is a burger with very marked contrasts, but well-resolved in this controlled chaos. The jopo-style ribs and chopped sirloin provide juiciness and that intense meat flavor, while the fried smoked cheese bomb adds creaminess and a crunchy touch. The balance is provided by the pickles, which give acidity and sweetness and prevent the bites from becoming too heavy too quickly.
The atmosphere complements the experience. Graffiti, intense colors, neon lights, and details that are more reminiscent of a nightclub than a burger joint. This rogue touch already warns that you are not in a conventional place. On the table, there are funny messages and a thousand details that make you stop looking at your phone. Everything is designed for a fun experience, with cheerful and relaxed service.
