Looking for a different and lighter dining experience after a matinee at the Fox Theatre, we headed over to The Iberian Pig, nestled beneath an overpass near the heart of Atlanta. From the moment we stepped foot into this cozy, yet elegant establishment, we were captivated by its inviting ambiance and the tantalizing aroma wafting from the open kitchen.
Having visited Spain and spending some time in Barcelona, we were transported in our minds back to the Iberian Peninsula to enjoy a relaxed meal of tapas and sangria. In fact, the Iberian Pig takes its name — and most of the pork items on the menu — from the world-famous, free-range Iberian pig breed that originated in Spain.
Charcuterie, from an Iberian Pig
The tapas-style menu at the Iberian Pig is great for sampling a wide variety of dishes. But first we ordered some sangria to set the mood. Then, the knowledgeable and helpful wait staff guided us through recommendations on a charcuterie and cheese starter featuring three Iberian hams and three cheeses made from cow and sheep milks.
The culinary journey through Spain had begun, with the charcuterie and cheese acting as the guide. Our favorites were the Manchego DOP cheese, a sheep’s milk product of La Mancha, Spain, the Valdeon cheese, a blended cow and sheep’s milk blue cheese from Leon, Spain, and the chorizo Iberico de Bellota, a slightly-spicy ham.
The next selection came from the daily specials, also described tantalizingly by the wait staff. The asparaggos con jamon arrived just as described, with tender asparagus spears wrapped in a slightly crispy ham, then drizzled lightly with a tarragon cava vinaigrette. The sweet cava blended tastily with the fresh tarragon, a perfect accompaniment to the asparagus.
We followed that with two choices from the Iberian Pig core menu. The attention to detail and the commitment to authenticity is evident in every item. We asked to have them delivered individually, so we wouldn’t feel rushed, and we’d enjoy the best temperatures. And, of course, the wait staff and kitchen obliged.
Date Night, with Bacon
First at the table was the BWD. A plate of five medjool dates stuffed with Manchego cheese, the flavor bombs come wrapped in browned applewood bacon strips. It’s all served over a romesco sauce. The sweet dates paired well with the creamy cheese and crisp bacon. Then, we dipped into the romesco sauce for some smokey and tangy contrast. If you’re not familiar with romesco, it’s a Spanish sauce. It’s filled with charred tomatoes and roasted red peppers, puréed with toasted almonds and bread. Those flavors blend and rise with the raw garlic, vinegar, chili or red pepper for a bit of heat.
Next up was the Gambas al Ajillio, five sauteed Argentinian shrimp served in a sherry garlic butter sauce. Each shrimp was tender and sweet, and dripping with that luscious buttery sauce. Two slices of grilled sourdough bread rested on the side of the bowl. And I’m not too proud to admit that when my wife declined a slice, I used both to sop up every tasty drop of that butter sauce.
No Paella? At the Spanish Iberian Pig?
By this time, filled from the delicious tapas, we stopped, although we had planned on two more dishes. In fact, we had our hearts set on their Paella de Mariscos and the Octopus Carpaccio. I mean, how could one visit a Spanish restaurant WITHOUT having paella. And, we had heard from friends that Paella de Mariscos is a true masterpiece. Comprised of saffron-infused rice, studded with an abundance of succulent shrimp, clams, and mussels, it explodes with flavors. But skip it, we did, along with the dessert churros about which we had heard equally fabulous recommendations.
So, lesson learned. Next time, we really WILL start with the dessert churros, then go for a course of paella. And that means we’ve already begun planning our next visit to the big city from our Cobb County base.
