Simply put, Bilbao is a foodie’s paradise. Dive into a culinary scene as rich as its history and as vibrant as its streets!
Whether you’re after those mouthwatering pintxos (that’s Basque for tapas) or dining in Michelin Star elegance, Bilbao’s got a plate for every palate. Let’s embark on this tempting gastronomic journey together.
Image Credit: Getty Images, F.J. Jimenez. Image Location: Bilbao, Spain
The essence of Basque: best traditional restaurants in Bilbao
Restaurante Pentxo (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: Where every visit feels new, thanks to its ever-evolving menu that’s easy on the wallet.
- Highlight dish: Paella, stuffed peppers, and artichokes with Iberian ham.
- Pro tip: Keep an eye out for their daily specials.
Irrintzi (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: A pintxos haven showcasing the very essence of Bilbao's culinary evolution.
- Highlight dish: Varied and exquisite pintxos.
- Pro tip: Mingle with the local crowd for an authentic Bilbao experience.
Casa Rufo (Abando, Bilbao)
- Vibe: A culinary institution, Casa Rufo has served traditional Basque delights for over a century.
- Highlight dish: Ribeye steak.
- Pro tip: Finish off with the famed flan — and consider reserving ahead.
Cafe Iruña (Abando, Bilbao)
- Vibe: Bilbao’s pintxos stalwart since 1903, promising bites of history with every serving.
- Highlight dish: Moorish kebabs.
- Pro tip: Delve deep into their diverse tapas menu rooted in tradition.
Restaurante Andra Mari Galdakao (Elexalde Auzoa, Bizkaia province)
- Vibe: Immerse yourself in the Basque spirit with traditional dishes, scenic river valley views, and age-old architecture.
- Highlight dish: Traditional Basque dishes spotlighting local produce.
- Pro tip: Time your dinner with the sunset over the Ibaizabal river valley.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Malcolm P Chapman
Michelin Stars: Bilbao’s crown jewels
Restaurante Zortziko (Abando, Bilbao)
- Vibe: A Michelin-starred restaurant where Chef Daniel García masterfully blends traditional Basque Country cuisine with international and contemporary touches.
- Highlight dish: Roast baby squid with peppers and scallops on tomato carpaccio.
- Pro tip: Opt for a seat in the atmospheric wine cellar for an unmatched ambiance.
Mina (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: Culinary artistry set against rustic backdrops; Mina is a Michelin-recognized delight in Bilbao’s heart.
- Highlight dish: Seasonally inspired dishes.
- Pro tip: Opt for a seat by the bar for a culinary theater experience.
Restaurante Azurmendi (Larrabetzu, Bizkaia province)
- Vibe: Michelin-studded excellence nestled in a traditional farmhouse setting, where Chef Eneko Atxa crafts modern Basque wonders.
- Highlight dish: Innovative Basque dishes.
- Pro tip: Relish the architecture post-meal; it’s as delightful as the food.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Image Location: Old Town, Bilbao, Spain
Bilbao’s new wave: contemporary culinary arts
Bistró Guggenheim Bilbao (Abando, Bilbao)
- Vibe: Architectural brilliance meets gastronomic wonderment at this iconic Bilbao destination.
- Highlight dish: Contemporary Basque dishes.
- Pro tip: Reenergize here after a museum tour and soak in city views.
El Puertito (Abando, Bilbao)
- Vibe: Bilbao’s prized oyster alcove promising oceanic delights with every bite.
- Highlight dish: Oysters.
- Pro tip: This hotspot fills up quickly, so be quick to grab available seats!
La Viña del Ensanche (Abando, Bilbao)
- Vibe: Bilbao’s iconic establishment, famous for its unparalleled jamón ibérico.
- Highlight dish: Jamón ibérico.
- Pro tip: Reservations here are a smart move.
Gure Toki (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: The spirit of family and tradition delivers “haute cuisine in miniature” at this local favorite.
- Highlight dish: Crab tempura.
- Pro tip: Savor your meal on their inviting terrace for added ambiance.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Cultura Exclusive/RUSS ROHDE
Quick bites & market marvels in Bilbao
Erribera merkatua/Mercado de la Ribera (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: The pulse of Bilbao’s gastronomy, this market teems with pintxos, produce, and local flavors.
- Highlight dish: Assorted pintxos.
- Pro tip: Dedicate a few hours to hop between stalls and sample diverse offerings.
Restaurante Víctor Montes Jatetxea (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: A classic rendezvous in Plaza Nueva, bustling with pintxos enthusiasts from all walks of life.
- Highlight dish: Signature pintxos.
- Pro tip: Dive into the local scene; this place is a hotspot for both tourists and locals.
Artxanda Jatetxea (Indautxu, Bilbao)
- Vibe: A quaint eatery near the funicular, serving delicious bites complemented by value-for-money wines.
- Highlight dish: Pintxos variety.
- Pro tip: Explore both their quick bites and sit-down meal options.
Antxoa Taberna (Casco Viejo, the Old Town of Bilbao)
- Vibe: A seafood sanctuary, especially if anchovies make your heart sing.
- Highlight dish: Tasting plate of anchovies.
- Pro tip: Pair your meal with a robust Spanish red wine.
Dig into Bilbao's food scene
Bilbao’s food scene is like its art — diverse, rich, and always on point! This guide aims to lead your taste buds on a Basque bonanza, from grandma’s age-old recipes to today’s edgy twists.
Keep in mind that in Bilbao, leaving a tip isn’t a must, but a small gesture for stellar service is always in good taste. Download the Trainline app and dig into the delicious eats of Bilbao.
Header Image Credit: Image Credit: Getty Images, Oscar Wong