Where to Eat in Bilbao? The Best Local Restaurants Explained

When it comes to eating out in Bilbao, it is difficult to choose a single place because the city is full of restaurants and bars that offer a variety of delicious dishes and drinks. From classic Basque dishes, such as cod omelette or bacalao al pil-pil, to modern fusion cooking, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a casual meal with friends or family, or a lunchtime treat, we have put together a guide of the best local restaurants in Bilbao.If you’re interested in Basque cuisine and traditional dishes, Etikera restaurant should top your list. Located in the Casco Viejo and less than 10 minutes from the famous Guggenheim Museum, this restaurant serves traditional regional dishes prepared with seasonal ingredients. Everything from their famous piquillo peppers stuffed with cod in pil-pil sauce to their marinated mackerel are worth tasting. Plus, the intimate atmosphere and authentic decor make for an unforgettable experience.If you’re looking for top-notch Mediterranean dishes and exquisite wines, La Vina del Ensanche is the place to go. This restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere, welcoming service and incredible food made with premium local produce and superb wines. Try their specialty arroz caldoso, a popular soup made with monkfish, scallops and squid. Not to mention the fact that they boast an impressive selection of desserts. If you’d like to try something truly special, look no further than La Vina del Ensanche.If you’d like to experience a bit of English pub culture in Bilbao, then The Longshoreman is your place. It’s quite unique as it’s the only British pub in town. With its cozy atmosphere, familiar music and real ales from Burton-on-Trent, this place can transport you across the ocean for a few hours. Plus, they serve excellent steak & kidney pie and fish & chips. It might not be traditional Basque fare, but it’s definitely worth a try!If you’d like to explore some of the newer restaurants popping up around town, try Taberna Inaki. This charming spot offers a mix of Basque classics and innovative tapas dishes. Don’t miss out on the grilled octopus or the rabas (calamari rings). And you must try the house-made bacalao al pil-pil dip – it’s an absolute must!Finally, if you’re looking for a late-night snack or local food on the go, head to Gure Toki. Serving traditional snacks such as tortilla de patatas, pinchos morunos and croquetas de bacalao (cod croquettes), it’s the perfect spot to sample some traditional Basque fare at any time of the day. They offer great value for money and their pinchos are divine – don’t miss out on them!So there you have it, five amazing places to eat in Bilbao for every occasion. From traditional Basque restaurants to modern Mediterranean fare, as well as international flavours from Britain and beyond, this city has something for everyone! Discover more about each of these amazing eateries with Bilboa’s guide to the best restaurants in the city.

Insider’s Guide to Bilbao: A Must-Visit City in Northern Spain

Bilbao is a vibrant city set in the Basque Country and home to some of Spain’s most impressive cultural experiences, awe-inspiring architecture, and one-of-a-kind dining destinations. Whether you’re here to explore the city’s history, indulge in Basque cuisine, or simply soak in the stunning views of the Bay of Biscay, there’s something for everyone in Bilbao.

Local Attractions

Bilbao is a city that’s both rich in history and bursting with contemporary cultural experiences. The Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, designed by Frank Gehry, is undoubtedly the highlight destination for tourists, offering a world-class art collection and architectonic masterpiece. Other notable landmarks and experiences to add to your itinerary include:

– The historic neighborhood of Casco Viejo, which features narrow cobblestone streets, stunning architecture, and charming shops and restaurants. It’s also home to the stunning Santiago Cathedral and Plaza Nueva.
– The Ribera Market, which is undoubtedly one of the best food markets in Spain. Here you’ll find a vast range of local produce from fresh seafood and colorful fruits to gourmet food items like truffles and Iberian ham.
– The Zubizuri Bridge, designed by Santiago Calatrava. This stunning glass-floored bridge spans the Nervion River and offers some unbeatable views of the city’s skyline and riverfront locations.
– The Arriaga Theatre, the Teatro Campos Eliseos, and the Bilbao Symphony Orchestra offer an excellent array of performances from classical music to dance and theater.

Dining Spots

Bilbao is one of the culinary hubs of Spain, and, as such, has an unmatched gastronomic scene. Visitors to Bilbao must try pintxos, the Basque version of tapas, and local dishes like bacalao al pil-pil (cod served in olive oil and garlic) or txangurro (spider crab). These are just a few places to stop for a meal:

– Restaurante el Perro Chico: a trendy spot with a fantastic terrace that serves contemporary cuisine made primarily from local ingredients.
– Mina Restaurant: A Michelin-starred restaurant serving both traditional and contemporary Basque dishes. They are known for their grilled meats and specialties from the sea.
– La Vina del Ensanche: serving Pintxos and Basque classics for over 90 years, it’s the perfect spot to sample lots of different Basque dishes.
– Restaurante Zortziko: a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers a unique culinary experience with innovative dishes- make sure to try the pigeon dish!

Cultural Experiences

Bilbao is home to a wide range of cultural experiences. Some of the most notable include:

– Athletic Club de Bilbao, the oldest and most successful football club in Spain, and home to one of the most passionate fan bases in Europe. The stadium has a capacity of over 50,000 people.
– The Bilbao Fine Arts Museum, which is home to some of Spain’s best collections of European and Basque art, including works by Goya, El Greco, and Zurbaran.
– The Basque Museum, dedicated to the Basque people’s history and culture, is the best place to learn about their traditions, language, and way of life.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

While the Guggenheim, the pintxos bars, and the Casco Viejo are iconic in their own right, there are plenty of other hidden gems in Bilbao waiting for you to discover. Here are a few of the lesser-known attractions worth checking out:

– Paseo de Anselma de Salces: a beautiful pedestrian street where you can find some fantastic artisan shops and bars.
– The San Francisco neighborhood: head down to this laid-back and less-touristy neighborhood and enjoy a traditional coffee or wine while watching the world go by.
– Marina de la Casilda: this small traditional town in Bilbao is a great place to relax by the water and have a picnic.

Local History

Bilbao has a rich history that spans over 700 years under the rule of the Basque people. Here are a few historical highlights to add to your itinerary:

– The Old Quarter (Casco Viejo), a walled neighborhood dating back to the Middle Ages and full of decorative buildings, including Santiago Cathedral dating back to the Fourteenth Century.
– The Basilica of Begoña: located high on a hillside, this iconic church offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
– The Mercado de la Ribera, or Ribera Market, which dates back over 100 years and has expanded to span three floors in the center of the city.

Visiting Bilbao is a must for anyone visiting Spain. With its incredible mix of cultural experiences, local gastronomy, and breathtaking natural beauty, it has become one of Europe’s most popular destinations. Whether you’re here for a weekend or an extended stay, Bilbao is sure to captivate you with its endless charm and unique character.