Cartagena's Colorful Charm: A Journey Through History and Flavors
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Restaurants in Bilbao
Showing 6 of 6 restaurantsTxangurro a la Donostiarra
Zurima / Bilbao (ES)
View Txangurro a la DonostiarraSpider crab prepared in the style of Donostia (San Sebastian), a flavorful and popular Basque seafood dish.
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Kokotxas
Zurima / Bilbao (ES)
View KokotxasHake cheeks, a Basque delicacy, often cooked in pil pil sauce or a similar preparation.
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Bacalao al Pil Pil
Zurima / Bilbao (ES)
View Bacalao al Pil PilCod in pil pil sauce, a classic Basque dish.
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Croquetas
La Brasa Canalla / Bilbao (ES)
View CroquetasCreamy and flavorful croquettes, a staple tapa in Spain.
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Chuletón
La Brasa Canalla / Bilbao (ES)
View ChuletónA large, thick-cut steak, grilled to perfection. This is a classic choice at a 'brasa' (grilled) restaurant.
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Pulpo a la Brasa
La Brasa Canalla / Bilbao (ES)
View Pulpo a la BrasaGrilled octopus, a popular Basque dish.
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Signature Dishes
Bilbao's culinary scene is characterized by its dedication to fresh, seasonal ingredients, particularly seafood. Flavors are typically robust and savory, highlighting the natural taste of the ingredients. Garlic, parsley, olive oil, and chili peppers are frequently used, and the emphasis is on simple preparations that allow the quality of the ingredients to shine.
Bacalao al Pil Pil
Salt cod cooked in olive oil with garlic and chili peppers. The 'pil pil' sauce is created by emulsifying the oil from the cod as it cooks, resulting in a creamy and flavorful sauce.
Marmitako
A hearty tuna stew with potatoes, onions, peppers, and tomatoes, traditionally prepared by fishermen on their boats.
Kokotxas
Hake cheeks, considered a delicacy, cooked in a variety of ways, often in a green sauce with clams or with pil pil sauce.
Txangurro a la Donostiarra
Spider crab cooked in its shell with onions, tomatoes, peppers, and brandy, then baked to perfection.
Pintxos
The Basque version of tapas, pintxos are small snacks typically served on a slice of bread and secured with a toothpick. They can range from simple combinations like anchovies and peppers to more elaborate creations.
Gilda
A classic pintxo consisting of a pickled guindilla pepper, an anchovy, and an olive, all skewered together.
Local Tips
To truly experience Bilbao's culinary scene, venture beyond the tourist areas and explore the local bars and restaurants. Be open to trying new dishes and embracing the Basque way of eating and socializing.
Explore the Casco Viejo (Old Town)
The Casco Viejo is packed with pintxo bars and traditional restaurants offering authentic Basque cuisine.
Learn some basic Basque phrases
While Spanish is widely spoken, knowing a few basic Basque phrases will be appreciated by locals and enhance your experience.
Eat with your hands (for Pintxos)
Pintxos are typically eaten with your hands, so don't be afraid to dig in! Just remember to dispose of toothpicks properly.
Try the Menu del Día
Many restaurants offer a 'Menu del Día' (Menu of the Day) at lunchtime, which is a great way to sample a variety of dishes at an affordable price.
Check for closing times
Many restaurants and bars have siesta hours and may close in the afternoon, so check their opening hours before you go.
About Bilbao
País Vasco
Food History
Bilbao's cuisine is deeply rooted in its Basque heritage and its history as a bustling port city. The surrounding Cantabrian Sea provides an abundance of fresh seafood, which is central to many dishes. Centuries of trade have also introduced diverse influences, shaping a unique culinary identity focused on quality ingredients and simple, flavorful preparations.
Food Culture
Food is deeply ingrained in Basque culture and is often a central part of social gatherings. Sharing meals with family and friends is highly valued, and the concept of 'txikiteo' (pintxo bar hopping) is a popular way to socialize and experience the local cuisine.
Txikiteo
A Basque tradition of hopping from bar to bar, enjoying a pintxo and a small glass of wine (txikito) at each stop. It's a social and lively way to experience the city's culinary scene.
Sociedades Gastronómicas
Private cooking clubs where members gather to cook and share meals together. These societies play a significant role in preserving and promoting Basque culinary traditions.
Importance of Fresh Ingredients
Basque cuisine places a high emphasis on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Markets are a vibrant part of daily life, and chefs take pride in sourcing the best products from nearby farms and the sea.
Traditional Drinks
Local wines, especially Txakoli (a slightly sparkling, dry white wine), and cider are popular accompaniments to Basque cuisine.