Certain dining moments stick with you and simply can't be forgotten. For me, that was Enrique Tomas Experience in Dallas, a Jamón-centric restaurant, where this near-perfect food took center stage.
Jamón is a meticulously cured ham and the crown jewel of Spanish gastronomy. To find a restaurant that specialized in mainly this, excited me to no end. Who can resist its delicate, subtly sweet, nutty flavor and rich, melt-in-your-mouth texture?
Upon entry, the porky aroma filled the air. A collection of hind legs lined the carving table, expertly hand sliced by the "Amonero," or skilled ham slicer.
The menu was straightforward, with tastings of various ages and varieties, such as Serrano and Iberico, in addition to classic tapas. As a Jamón lover, it only made sense to embark on a flight. The lingerie-thin slices were perfectly tender and the fat, glistening. I savored the ham by itself and topped it on tomato-rubbed toasts, which provided a hint of acidity to a rich bite. A sip of Paloma refreshed my palate, and bites of briny Boquerones (fresh anchovies marinated in oil and vinegar) enhanced the experience.
Sadly, this location no longer exists, and I'll have to visit Spain, where the restaurant originated for the authentic Jamón experience. Until then, I shall wait patiently.