Eating in Bilbao

Bilbao, a city located in the Basque Country of Spain, has been gaining popularity as a foodie destination in recent years. The Basque region is known for its culinary traditions and innovative cuisine, and Bilbao is no exception. The city is home to numerous restaurants, cafes, and pintxo bars that offer a wide range of local and international cuisine. Visitors can indulge in Basque specialties such as pintxos (small snacks served on bread) and fresh seafood, as well as sample dishes from around the world.

One of the highlights of Bilbao’s food scene is the Mercado de la Ribera, one of the largest indoor food markets in Europe. Here, visitors can find a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other local products, as well as a selection of bars and restaurants where they can enjoy traditional Basque dishes. In addition to the market, Bilbao also hosts numerous food festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Bilbao-Bizkaia Gastronomika festival, which showcases the best of Basque cuisine and attracts foodies from around the world.

Here are the food specialties in Bilbao that you should try, and the best restaurants and vendors where to eat them.

Pintxos: You cannot go to Bilbao and not try pintxos, the city’s famous version of tapas. Pintxos are bite-sized snacks that usually consist of a piece of bread with different toppings like grilled shrimp, cured meats, or Spanish omelets. The best place for pintxos is the old town of Bilbao, specifically in Plaza Nueva. Each bar will have their unique variations on the snack, so try multiple spots!

Marmitako: This traditional Basque soup is a hearty dish made with tuna, potatoes and peppers. You can find the best Marmitako in Bar Berton (Calle Somera, 33), a cozy bar with friendly staff.

Bacalao al Pil Pil: A signature Basque dish made with cod cooked in garlic and olive oil, creating an emulsion that will leave you speechless. The best place to try this dish is at Restaurante El Globo (Calle Bailen, 16), with a relaxed atmosphere and attentive staff.

Txakoli: A sparkling, slightly acidic white wine produced in the Basque region, specifically in Bilbao. It’s perfect to enjoy while snacking on pintxos. The Vinoteca Murua (Fermin Calbeton Kalea, 15) has a great selection of Txakoli.

Idiazabal: This popular cheese is made from raw milk of the latxa sheep in the Basque country. The cheese is aged for several months, giving it a slightly smoky flavor. The best place to try it is in La Viña del Ensanche (Calle Diputación, 10), a traditional bar with warm decor.

Chuleta: One of the most iconic dishes of Bilbao is the Chuleta, a huge steak grilled over a wood fire. Asador Etxebarri (Plaza de San Juan,1) is known for its chuletas, cooked to perfection.

Gilda: A pintxo dish made from olives, anchovies, and spicy peppers on a skewer. The combination of flavors packs a punch that will have you coming back for more. A great place to try this dish is La Cueva (Calle Licenciado Poza, 54).

Txangurro: This traditional dish is stuffed spider crab, usually served in its own shell. The crab is cooked with some vegetables and cream, then mixed with the crab meat and baked. You can taste it at Los Fueros, a restaurant with a relaxing atmosphere (Calle Fueros, 6).

Txipirones en su Tinta: This Basque classic consists of squid in its own ink, cooked with onions and tomato sauce. You can try it at La Vina del Ensanche, a cozy traditional bar.

Arroz con almejas: A favourite rice dish with clams cooked in a tomato sauce, a traditional Basque meal. The best place to try it is in Los Fueros (Calle Fueros, 6), with excellent service and a refined atmosphere.

Bilbao has an incredible food scene, and these dishes are only a small selection of the variety of amazing flavors and dishes available. When traveling to Bilbao, be sure to explore the city’s many bars and restaurants, and be prepared to try new and exciting dishes.

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