Dinner at Merchan, San Pedro de Alcantara, May 2017

by Morris Bishop
(San Pedro de Alcantara)

Originally recommended by Viviana of Granier our foursome had high anticipation of an exceptional meal to come. The restaurant has gone through a major refurbishment to a high standard with alfresco dining under an awning in the passageway and a brand new eating area with a well-equipped bar at one end. Newly furnished and decorated inside with pleasant place settings, glass wear and cutlery but spoilt by paper serviettes. This restaurant has a long history dating back to 1955, and must surely be one of the oldest restaurant that has been continuous open in San Pedro. Father Pepe with sons Rubin and George in front of house, and Raul in charge of the Kitchen are the family team assisted by waiter Alberto.

From a manageable menu who’s Mains are predominantly Fish, with a mere quartet of dishes for Meat lovers, we shared starters of ‘Special Salad’ with Spiced Potato’s, except the later arrived 10 minutes after the scrumptious salad and were not the crispy ‘Patatos Bravos’ that we thought they were going to be. For mains the girls chose Grilled Monkfish Brochette with Prawns, Onion, Tomato, and Peppers, and the fellas had Soles, one Grilled and mine Menuier , apart for me having to ask for some butter sauce, all that we had was delicious and plentiful such that none of us could face a dessert. The Maques de Riscal white was a perfect accompaniment, but the standard of service left something to be desired from the jovial and friendly trio,

The Vs: Marchan can be found just off the pedestrianised part of avda. Maques del Duero (the main drag) in c/ San Gabrel No. 7 just down from the Bread shop on the corner. Street parking or in the undergoing car park in the lower part of avda Maques del Duro. They open for Lunch and dinner 6 days a week with Monday being their day of rest. They seat 28 inside and a further 20 in the passageway. Average 3 course meal with wine 35€. Reservations on 952780134 No web site that I could find.

Bishlin Guide marks out of 5
Ambience:4.5
Food:4.5
Menu:4.5
Service:4
Value:4.5
O/A::4.5

Please mention to the restaurateur that the restaurant was recommended in the "MarbellaFamilyFun.com" Newsletter. To see even more reviews on the best restaurants in Marbella, check out The Bishlin Guide.