Gourmet shops have a special allure, a magnetism that’s hard to resist, and Don Finardo in Madrid epitomizes this allure to the fullest. This intimate boutique is a sanctuary for aficionados of Iberico acorn-fed ham, which takes center stage here. What’s more, Don Finardo takes pride in crafting their own hams in Guijuelo, Salamanca — a region renowned in Spain for its exemplary ham production.

If the idea of traveling with an entire ham resonates with your culinary ambitions, Don Finardo is ready to accommodate. However, if the logistics prove challenging, fret not. The store offers on-the-spot slicing, vacuum-packing your selection into convenient packages, ensuring your travel remains hassle-free — provided your destination’s customs regulations are obliging.

While the 100% acorn-fed ham garners much attention, and rightly so, here’s a tip from a fellow enthusiast: venture into the 50% and 75% purity variants. Each offers a distinctive palate experience, and as the saying goes, “taste is subjective.” You might find a new favorite.

But Don Finardo is more than just ham. The shop is a treasure trove of Spanish delicacies, from artisanal cheeses and wines — perfect companions for a plate of jamón — to mouth-watering preserves. The ribs, pork loin, and chorizo, all preserved in oil, stand out as my personal recommendations.

Don Finardo is a proud member of the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Spain, the esteemed global gastronomic association. A visit here is not just shopping; it’s an indulgence in culinary excellence.