Mockingbird Hill is a bar in DC and has unique flairs like pour-over coffee, punk music, and industrial decor. But, the owner, Derek Brown, is a self-proclaimed sherry advocate and has made Mockingbird Hill into a sherry and ham bar. The food is simple but well done and one of my favorites was his twists on the classic tapas bite, Pan Con Tomate.
2tablespoonsextra-virgin olive oilideally Spanish, plus extra for finishing
2tablespoonssherry vinegar
4to 6 slicesToasted crusty bread
Maldon sea salt or other flaky sea salt, for garnish
ThinlyslicedSerrano hamfor garnish
ThinlyslicedManchego cheesefor garnish
Instructions
Grate the tomatoes on the large holes of a box grater. Then, using the fine holes, grate the garlic over the tomatoes. Add the measured salt, the olive oil and the vinegar, and stir to combine, then sit aside 5 to 10 minutes before using.
Meanwhile, toast or grill the bread until it is lightly charred. Spread a large spoonful of the grated tomato mixture onto the bread, then top with a few curls of ham, a few shavings of cheese, another drizzle of oil, and serve.