I’ve already confessed my love for alcachofas (artichokes), so Mesón Mariano was heaven: we tried half of their six artichoke dishes.

We loved them “a la plancha” the most, followed by with jamón ibérico and Montillana-style. We also enjoyed their seafood soup, prawns, jamón ibérico, and fried cod.

A plate of grilled artichokes sliced thin, beautifully seared to a golden brown with slightly crispy edges and tender centers, glistening with olive oil and served with a wedge of lemon for brightness. The rustic presentation emphasizes the earthy, rich flavor of the artichokes.Tender artichoke hearts bathed in olive oil and topped with silky slices of jamón ibérico, creating a luscious contrast between the delicate vegetable and the savory, cured ham. The oil pools on the plate, adding a glossy finish that makes the dish look indulgent and rich.Halved artichoke hearts swimming in a light, creamy broth speckled with chopped ham and diced leeks. The broth clings to the vegetables, and the tender leaves show subtle layering, suggesting a soft bite and deep flavor.A chalkboard menu on a brick wall titled “La Alcachofa” (The Artichoke), featuring a list of house specialties centered around artichokes—confited, Montillana-style, salad with tuna belly, grilled, fried, and battered. The vibrant chalk colors and hand-drawn artichoke illustration give a cozy, welcoming feel.A bowl of thick, white soup with visible pieces of seafood—shrimp, white fish, and poached egg—floating in the rich, velvety base. The edges of the bowl are slightly rimmed with soup foam, indicating a warm, freshly served dish.A chilled plate of pink prawns neatly arranged in rows around a lemon wedge. Their glistening shells and slightly translucent appearance suggest freshness and a clean, briny flavor, typical of expertly prepared cold seafood.A circular arrangement of thinly sliced jamón ibérico fanned out across a white plate with a blue rim. The deep reds and glossy fat edges on the ham shimmer under the light, making it look tender and luxurious.Golden, lightly battered cod pieces topped with crispy slivers of garlic, served alongside a fresh tomato and lettuce salad with red onion. The contrast between the crunchy garlic, juicy vegetables, and flaky fish makes the dish look satisfying and well-balanced.A vibrant interior scene with diners in the foreground and a wall full of wine bottles organized in vertical lines against rustic brick. Colorful ceramic plates and a central chalkboard listing daily specials add charm, while fresh fruit on the counter brings a pop of natural color to the cozy, bustling restaurant atmosphere.