Bilbao is a city best discovered through its food. Its culinary identity is a blend of Basque tradition, local produce and a pintxo culture that is part of everyday life. From historic bars to more contemporary venues, the culinary experience is one of the main attractions for tourists in Bilbao.

Staying in the city centre, such as at Tayko Bilbao, allows you to explore the main dining areas on foot and experience the city in an authentic way.

A pintxo tour of the Old Town: the essence of Bilbao

The culinary heart of the city lies in Bilbao’s Old Town, known in Basque as Zazpi Kaleak (the Seven Streets). This neighbourhood is home to some of Bilbao’s most iconic bars and is the ideal place for a pintxos tour. Here, the food scene is informal, vibrant and ever-changing. Some of the most highly recommended bars include:

• El Globo: Well known for its prawn pintxo in batter or its prawn skewer, one of the most popular dishes in the city. A simple classic that is very representative of Bilbao.
• Café Iruña: A historic establishment with over a century of history. Its most famous pintxo is braised beef snout, alongside its squid rings and its unique, oriental-inspired atmosphere.
• Gure Toki (Plaza Nueva): A leading name in modern cuisine served as pintxos. Its beef cheek taco is a particular highlight and one of the most famous in Bilbao.
• Sorginzulo (Plaza Nueva): Highly popular for its blend of tradition and contemporary cuisine. Its foie gras pintxo with caramelised apple is one of the most highly recommended dishes.
• Víctor Montes: A more elegant spot where you can sample elaborate pintxos or more substantial dishes. Their foie gras with a PX reduction is one of their classics.

Plaza Nueva is the heart of this experience, particularly at midday or at sunset, when the city comes alive around its bars.

La Ribera Market: local produce and tradition

Another must-visit is the Mercado de la Ribera, Spain’s largest covered market. Here you’ll find produce at its finest: fish from the Cantabrian Sea, shellfish, cured meats and local produce that define Basque cuisine. It’s also a great place for a casual bite to eat, with small food stalls inside the market itself.

Contemporary Bilbao: modern cuisine and new venues

Beyond the Old Town, Bilbao has developed a fascinating modern food scene in areas such as Abando and Gran Vía. Here, restaurants specialising in seasonal produce, creative cuisine and establishments that reinterpret Basque traditions using contemporary techniques all coexist, cementing the city’s status as one of the leading culinary destinations in northern Spain.

Haute cuisine: a more exclusive experience

If you’re looking for a more refined dining experience, Bilbao also offers internationally renowned haute cuisine. In this regard, Ola Martín Berasategui, located at the Hotel Tayko Bilbao, offers the most refined and contemporary take on Basque cuisine. With a Michelin star and seasonal tasting menus, it is an ideal choice for those wishing to round off their stay with a more exclusive and memorable dining experience. To ensure availability and fully enjoy the experience, we recommend making a reservation in advance.