Picones de María, a small restaurant with a big essence

There are charming restaurants and without a doubt, Picones de María is a good example of them. A cozy space, a few meters from the Plaza de Castilla in Madrid, which has just six tables carefully assembled for us to fully enjoy an absolutely unforgettable evening. Elegant tablecloths, beautiful tableware and an attentive and highly professional service, take us into the particular universe of Picones de María. A simple restaurant, with the soul of a restaurant, where they always cook over a slow fire and with a lot of love. The main protagonists of its appetizing menu are always the best raw materials. A seasonal menu based on exceptional seasonal products that never disappoint.

Its creator, the charming Jesús Peinado, enjoys personally explaining to the diner every dish that comes out of the kitchen. A gastronomy enthusiast who continues to work as hard as the first day. Jesús and his wife, María Meño, have acquired the tables in their first gastronomic project. Thirteen years at the head of a modest restaurant in the traditional neighborhood of Tetuán, whose warm welcome encouraged them to embark on Picones de María. A charming restaurant with traditional flavors. A traditional, honest and carefully prepared cuisine, which translates into delicious classic dishes that exude classicism and know-how.

On our visit to Picones de María we began by savoring a spectacular Zubiri chistorra sausage that we thoroughly enjoyed before succumbing to the charms of the spectacular Daniel Sorlut No. 2 oyster in chicken marinade. We continue with some very tasty and super creamy homemade croquettes of smoked jerky from Leon that are a real delight.

The caviar and Iberian veil brioche that we tasted next, surprised us very pleasantly. An original snack that led to an impressive small casserole of white shrimp from Huelva with garlic that arrived steaming at the table, intoxicating us with its seductive aromas before going on to taste the daring fig salad with Iberian ham and Parmesan. An original, balanced and successful combination that is worth trying, as well as the sublime boletus in two textures.

The aged chop steak tartar is quite possibly one of the best we have tasted to date. With a subtle touch of truffle and topped with the yolk of a quail egg, we fell in love with every bite.

For dessert, it is essential to try their homemade apple pie. The perfect ending to an absolutely memorable evening.

Picones de María, the great little restaurant of Jesús y María, enchants us with the charm of the old-time eating houses. An intimate space where the enjoyment and good times … Are always guaranteed!