Fresh Artichokes, once obscure, have now become more popular with many consumers, as more people search for healthy alternatives that are also delicious. That’s because not only are Artichokes a unique addition to any meal, but they are also full of antioxidants and fiber, making them a perfect compliment to a healthy diet. Helping further fuel this interest in the veggie, Artichokes are also popping up across the country’s culinary landscape. In fact, many people’s first Artichoke experience may have been while eating out at a restaurant.

As Artichokes continue to become more of a mainstream vegetable, more restaurants are finding ways to incorporate fresh, whole Artichokes onto their menus with creative ways to make the flavors and nutrients of Artichokes come alive in appetizers, main dishes, vegetarian plates and even soups.

“Artichokes are healthy, nutritious and taste great,” said Chef Tony Baker, executive chef at the Montrio Bistro. “As a chef at Montrio Bistro, we’ve been offering Artichokes for years, and we always have people coming in who love the veggie and ask to order them. We also meet a lot of people who are looking for new ways to incorporate Artichokes into recipes at home.”

To help people create restaurant-quality recipes at home, Chef Baker is partnering with Ocean Mist Farms on the new Ask the Chef feature on the Ocean Mist Farms Web site. Chef Baker will be available to provide tips on how to prepare, cook and eat Artichokes from the comfort of your own kitchen. Those who visit the Ask a Chef and submit an Artichoke- or recipe-related question will receive a personalized answer via e-mail from Chef Baker!

Looking for a restaurant that serves Ocean Mist Farms Artichokes? Check out the following chains that may have a location in your area: The Cheesecake Factory, which has been serving Ocean Mist Farm’s Artichokes for years, Houston’s, Bandera, Gulf Stream and Claim Jumper. Also, now through April 15, Capital Grill Steak House and Maggiano’s Little Italy will be testing new Artichoke menu selections using Ocean Mist Farms Artichokes!

If you’ve tried a scrumptious Artichoke at one of these restaurants or somewhere else that feature’s Ocean Mist Farms chokes, or if you have a recipe you’ve created at home, we want to hear about it! Share your latest Artichoke experience with us today.