Spain: the Tunnel of Ham, Valencia

January 2020

One thing I love about Spain was how un-seriously it takes even its most venerable of institutions. The curing, cutting, and serving of ham there is a highly respected art. There are TV programs and serious awards dedicated to it. For me, Spanish ham is just one of many good foods in the country. For the Spanish, it is part of their national identity.

In Madrid, AFVdR introduced me to the "Museum of Ham" (just a restaurant). In other cities, there are other small shops with very official sounding names that are, in fact, places to get some beer or wine and a ham sandwich. In Valencia, I stumbled across the "Tunnel of Ham" and simply had to try it. I wasn't disappointed with both the flavor and price point. I returned daily during my several day stay in the city. Enjoying a ham sandwich and a glass of red wine sitting under dozens of ham shanks is part of why I love travel in Spain: ridiculous, but at the same time - serious.

Ham sandwich in Valencia - multiple checks.