Mesón Ca'n Pedro is a great place, full of life and chatter as families and friends relax together. It's also everyone's favourite restaurant, as we found out when we asked our Mallorcan friends about it. It's a warm, welcoming place built in the Mallorcan style with wooden beams, lovely wide arches, pine furniture - it's also very big, but because it has been cleverly laid out, it still manages to feel cosy, intimate and friendly.

The first restaurant under this name was started in 1976 and was followed 15 years later by Mesón Ca'n Pedro II. Both restaurants are still owned and run by the Esteban family, and are in close proximity to one another. Ca'n Pedro II is at the top of the hill adjacent to the private parking area (see Directions), while Ca'n Pedro I is in the same street but lower.

The original Mesón Ca'n Pedro became famous for its variations on the simple dish of pa amb oli, but soon widened its scope. These days both restaurants are hugely popular for their range of typical Mallorcan dishes, grilled meats, and fresh fish. We were honoured to be given a tour of the kitchen and storage areas at Ca'n Mesón II and the quality of the produce we saw was first class. The menu is extensive and the wine list features a good range of wines from Mallorca and from the mainland. Despite the emphasis on grilled meats, vegetarian requirements are also catered for.

Mesón Ca'n Pedro is a good choice for slightly noisy special occasions! There are several separate areas which can cater for groups of various sizes up to about 150 in the largest area. The restaurant will cater for these functions on an agreed special menu basis, including one for children.

We got the feeling that this is a well run, well organised, professional business, but also that nothing would be too much trouble for the friendly and helpful staff. It's not surprising it's a such a popular place - you really shouldn't miss the chance to go there.

Ca'n Pedro I is open all year from midday to midnight, except on Mondays (open on public holiday Mondays). Ca'n Pedro II opens for lunch between 12:30 and 16:30, and for dinner from 19:00 to 00:30; these hours change on Mondays to midday to midnight. This restaurant is closed on Wednesdays except when a public holiday falls on that day.