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 Extensive bar with different atmospheres |
Iparraguirre, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 423 4081 |
La Abadía Pub is situated in one of the liveliest parts of Bilbao, the Ensanche-Mazarredo-Albia area. This spacious bar has various different sections and ambiances, such as the large area with tables, where you can sit and listen to good music while chatting with friends, or the bar itself, where there is an impressive selection of beers and rum on the shelves between the decorative pillars. The pub also functions as a café and has a fine range of specialty blend coffees and teas, coffee with alcohol and shakes, as well as a choice of hams, sausages and other "pintxos" (canapes). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Good cuisine in modern atmosphere |
San Vicente, 5 Bilbao 48001 Spain +34 94 423 6900 |
This year the Albatros will be 20 years old. Since it was opened in 1980, it has had a steady clientèle of (mostly office) people obliged to lunch away from home and who are looking for good food and that homey atmosphere their work schedule doesn't allow for. In smart and modern surroundings you can sample the specialities of the house, which are seasonal seafood and fish, although the ox cutlets and delicious meat joints are also very good. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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New Basque cuisine |
Máximo Aguirre, 1 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 423 7150 |
The Ama Lurre restaurant, which opened in 1990, has made a niche for itself, in the city. The classical style prevails in its two dining rooms, one of which is private. It is situated next to the Museo de Bellas Artes, one of the most important museums, along with the Guggenheim, in town. There is no excuse then not to visit the art gallery before or after lunch. The quality of the cooking is also evident in the canapés available at he bar. This is a restaurant which specialises in new Basque cuisine, particularly fish and seafood. The dishes that stand out at the Ama Lurre are Lobster and Avocado Salad with in-season Spinach and Ox Filets with oporto paté. Remelluri, 91 Reserve, is a good wine to go with these dishes. The set menu in this establishment costs 6,500 pesetas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Young restaurant specialising in traditional |
Alameda Recalde, 53 Bilbao 48008 Spain |
Although this is a young restaurant -hardly seven years old - the Arrikibar has already carved a niche for itself among the best. The dining room, decorated in rustic style, is a sign that this restaurant specialises in traditional cooking "always prepared with seasonal ingredients". Fresh fish predominates in the kitchen. It is the ingredient most in demand with the clients, the majority of whom are in the medium to high income bracket. Among our suggestions are the slivers of cod, grilled fish and the sea-bass with lemon. In the cellar, the Crianza wines of the Rioja Alavesa are predominant. In common with many other restaurants in Spain, the establishment does not offer a no smoking area. Meals can be ordered to take away. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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All kinds of coffee and cakes |
Rodríguez Arias, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain +34 94 415 1603 |
This was one of those pioneering cafes which was one of the first to serve coffee from all over the world, and which has now become a small but cozy place devoted entirely to coffee. The decor is typical of any Spanish cafe-bar. It has a special appeal, however, as it retains the charm of the old-style cafes. It is in one of the busiest streets in Bilbao, Rodriguez Arias. When you visit Arabicas, do try one of its pastries, such as croissants and little rice cakes, or a savoury tapa such as ham canapés or stuffed pepper, etc. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
 Its name does it justice |
Ledesma 30 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 423 1186 |
As the name implies, this is one chic and trendy eatery. If you are a lover of Chinese cuisine, you will enjoy it - if not, you will soon become one! Try the lunchtime set menu, the Menu del Dia - it is value for money. Also, be sure to get there early, as it can get pretty crowded. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Luxury restaurant decorated in English style |
Gran Vía, 63 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 441 5332 |
The dining room's English style decor of wood and beige tones makes for a cosy atmosphere in which to sample the specialities of the house. The restaurant is also conveniently located near one of the best hotels in town. The pictures on the walls, the lamps hanging from the ceiling, the wall lamps and the ceiling mouldings give the dining room, which has a separate entrance from the bar, a rather stately air. The Atlanta's stoves are well acquainted with the "nouvelle" Basque cuisine but traditional Basque cooking is not forgotten. The house recommendations are skewered fillet steak with cheese and lamb barbecued cutlets with mushrooms and baked potatoes. We should not, however, forget the seafood and fresh fish. In fact, the specialties differ depending on the season, and in warm weather the specialties include the crab and lobster salads, or the garden salad and crunchy stuffed peppers. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fantastic rice cake for breakfast |
Rodríguez Arias, 28 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 427 6472 |
This bar, which is very close to the Guggenheim Museum, and strategically placed in the city centre, has a lot to offer. Firstly, it's open from sunrise to sunset. The waiters are also efficient and friendly, whether you're there at 7a in the morning or 1:30p at night. The cafeteria is owned by the Atlanta restaurant located on another street. For breakfast, Atlanta has the classic array of pastries available, but don't leave without trying their famous home-made rice cake, which is both nutritious and tasty. In the afternoon be sure to order their octopus, "rabas" (fried strips of squid or cuttlefish), or hearty Spanish omelette or ham sandwiches. You can dine in or outside in the terrace section which is open all year round: They remove the awning in summer and close it in winter, a very important detail if you consider how much it rains in Bilbao. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Great atmosphere |
Licenciado Poza, 40 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48011 Spain +34 94 441 6639 |
Poza 40 is a very large bar in the Indautxu area. The bar in front very long and this area has several small tables. The back of the establishment is quite roomy and has long tables where you can try a variety of tapas. Try pieces of tuna with olive and spicy onion on sticks. In the evening this part of the bar is full of people drinking and playing games, or watching the Bilbao team play football on television. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The best paella |
Bertendona, 6 Bilbao 48008 Spain +34 94 415 0818 |
The star here is the paella, perhaps one of the best known dishes in the whole world. You can't say you've eaten a good paella until you've been to La Barraca, where this dish 'has no secrets'. You can choose here from among ten different paella preparations. All of this, what's more, in an exquisite atmosphere - because it's a popular dish doesn't mean you have to sample it in any old place. The atmosphere is very intimate, the walls decorated up to halfway point in a beige tone the same as the ceiling. From halfway up to the ceiling, separated by a very elegant border, the tone is a dark green. The lighting is provided by golden wall lamps positioned so that they also illuminate the pictures decorating the dining room. If you're not sure which paella to try, here are some suggestions: for the more traditional, the usual paella with meat and seafood is a good choice; for the more adventurous, try the paella served in the shell of a large crab or paella with clams. There is another La Barraca restaurant in number 12 García Salazar street (tel: 410 2021). The nearest metro station is Abando and in this branch dinner is served on Sunday evenings. Paellas are also prepared for takeaway. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of best hotel restaurants |
Ercilla, 37-39 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 410 2000 http://www.hotellopezdeharo.com |
In keeping with its name, the decor of the dining room of Hotel Ercilla has a strong marine influence. It has not taken the name of a famous Vizcayan coastal location in vain. The walls of this luxurious establishment are decorated with pictures of boats. Considered one of the best hotel restaurants, in the Bermeo you can sample creative cooking where fish is the main star. The dishes most in demand here are: cod salad, baked sea bass with sauce, hake with seafood and cod prepared in two different ways, both of them delicious: "á la pil-pil" or "á la Vizcaína". Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Coffee, tea, milkshakes, entertainment |
Pérez Galdos, 13 Bilbao 48010 Spain +34 94 442 3808 |
The Farandula cafe-theater is located in the Indautxu area. It is a pleasant place to try specialty coffees, such as the delicious "Coffes" coffee with a liqueur and cream, tea, or various milkshakes. You will also enjoy the decor. One of the walls was painted by Ramon Perez, and another wall has a number of doors which do not lead anywhere. There is also a big bar, marble tables and a stage with curtains which open for performances by local groups playing jazz and other types of music. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Homestyle Chinese Cooking |
Alameda Urquijo, 87 Bilbao 48013 Spain +34 944 415 173 |
If you're looking for homestyle Chinese cooking in Bilbao, head to La Casa De Bambu. Enjoy traditional dishes, such as roast duck and steamed fish, or opt for the reasonably priced menu of the day. Complement your meal with one of their fine desserts or various teas. La Casa De Bambu, which boasts one of the most luxurious dining rooms in Bilbao, will not leave you hungry or disappointed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Pure Mexican |
Alameda Recalde, 11 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 424 9089 http://www.elcharroloco.com info@elcharroloco.com |
The essence of Mexico is concentrated in El Charro Loco. The whole atmosphere is Mexican here, from the decor, which of course includes the furniture, to the staff's attire and the glassware - all of it pure Mexico. All the best of Mexican culture is here: the cooking and the music that adds atmosphere and colour to what is the experience of eating a meal in El Charro Loco. Here you can sample the best chilaquiles, tasty strips of Guajolote, real kidney beans, fried or Mexican style, a selection of folded tortillas; and you cannot leave without sampling the burritos and enchiladas. Sorbet with lemon and - what else? - tequila is our recommendation for dessert. To accompany all these exotic dishes, what better than a refreshing piña colada or margarita? Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Friendly French restaurant |
General Concha,12 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 421 8526 |
A touch of France in the centre of an increasingly international city: Chez Maité is a French restaurant that takes pains with fish, its speciality. The clientele here is generally fairly well-heeled and comes to this establishment in search of something different: a taste of France. The place is decorated in a highly unusual style. The dining area is colourful and gay. The walls are a combination of pink and blue, in contrast to the yellow of the floor. Impressionist paintings hang on the walls. The menu of the day costs around 2,000 pesetas and the á la carte menus vary between 3,400 and 4,800 pesetas. To start you can try a pasta salad with thin red peppers and for the main course a juicy baked horse-mackerel or an exquisite "dorada" fish, also baked. The duck cooked in orange is delicious. There is also a good selection of home-made desserts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Outstanding quality |
Ercilla, 15 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 424 6653 |
There are more and more oriental restaurants every day. The Chino Ercilla is one of the most recent and stands out for the quality of its cooking. This, along with the pleasant nature of the service, is making it a favourite with Bilbaoans. The Chino Ercilla is cultivating an increasingly faithful clientele. Apart from the typical dishes found in Chinese reataurants like spring rolls, sweet and sour pork and special fried rice, this establishment stands out for a specialities such as leg joint of pork Mongolian style and Peking barbecued duck. All in all, good Chinese food at a reasonable price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Elegant hotel restaurant |
Obispo Orueta, 2 Bilbao 48009 Spain +34 94 423 5500 http://www.hotellopezdeharo.com |
This restaurant is situated on the first floor of the five-star Hotel López de Haro, the most luxurious hotel in the city. As you would expect, the restaurant has a five fork rating for the quality and luxury it offers. The decoration, as one look at any of its rooms in the French style demonstrates, is also of a high order. The luxury also extends to its dishes. In the Club Naútico, one of the city's finest restaurants, you will encounter refined cooking with a touch of modernity mixed in with the traditional Basque. Recommended are: grilled angler fish over cream, filleted red mullet with pine nuts and artichoke puree, or the grilled beef steak. The house wines include: Conde de Valdemar, Reserva del 89; Viña Salceda, Crianza del 95 and 89 Campillo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Maximum simplicity |
Alameda de Recalde, 54 Bilbao 48008 Spain |
With a name like this it can only be an Italian restaurant. You'll find the essence of Italy in a spacious location with seating for 130. It is a young restaurant, just nine years old, but booking is advised, especially at the weekend, because despite its size it tends to get full. Young people of around thirty-five and under form the nucleus of the clientele. They are delighted with the simplicity and friendliness of the place. The clarity in the dining area as much as in the menu is a big plus for the Domenicos restaurant. Here are a few recommendations: warm pasta salad, selection of pastas, "carpaccios" of meat and cod, depending on one's taste, and there is also fillet steak. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spacious and cosy |
Rodríguez Arias, 19 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 421 9300 |
Don Angelo is a typical Italian restaurant. Going down the stairs to the dining room, the aroma of Italian cooking hits you. There is nothing more Italian than pizza and in Don Angelo they do it in the purest Italian style. Now comes the choice: the house pizza, which goes by the restaurant's name, the seafood, or the Napolitana. It is a popular place with the young, with prices to suit their wallets. Once inside Don Angelo's you're transported to the romance of Venice. Its decor commemorates the old gondola sailors. If you don't fancy pizza you can choose from another of the house's specialities, such as fetuccini with wild mushrooms and cream, or a grilled steak fillet or sole, or even skewers of angler fish, or one of their famous salads. There is seating for 200 here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Irish pub serving traditional breakfast |
Plaza Moyúa, 6 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 424 0223 |
The Dubliners is a pub right in the centre of Bilbao, in the Plaza Moyua, which sprang up because of a boom in the city in the late 1990s, resulting in a number of real Irish pubs opening there. The Dubliners serves the most genuine Irish fare such as breakfasts of brown bread, butter and marmalade, and traditional raisin bread. To satisfy your hunger and thirst, it serves typical Irish dishes and Guinness and Kilkenny stout and beer and of course Irish whisky. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Authentic German food and beer |
Plaza del Ensanche, 7 Bilbao 48009 Spain +34 94 424 1311 |
The name translates as something like 'a toast to Bilbao'. In this restaurant the best of two cultures come together: the Germanic and the Bilbaoan. It goes without saying that this recently opened establishment offers typically German dishes and, of course, the best German beer. The Prosit Bilbao is different and original, so much so that on entering you are immediately transported to Germany. The beers are the stars here, especially the draught wheat beer, and the sausages are authentically German. To whet your palate, here are a few suggestions: roast pork leg joint with mashed potatoes and German cabbage, meat and cheese pie with a selection of vegetables, and a delicious creamy dessert of caramalised walnuts. On weekends, mushrooms with cheese and deep fried squid in 'best beer style' are available. The door is open for all who want a pure German experience. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Basque cooking with international touch |
Gran Vía, 59 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 442 2372 |
This restaurant prepares traditional Basque food with seasonal products and hints of international cooking so that the visitor feels very at home. There are three dining rooms, one of them private for more intimate occasions. The decor is understated, simple but elegant. All dishes are prepared with seasonal products, which helps to guarantee the quality of this restaurant: terrine of home-made paté, thin slices of lamb with sauce and steak fillets. The wines recommended by the house are Solar de Estraunza and Campillo. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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You must stop here |
Gran Vía, 59 Bilbao 48011 Spain |
This very elegant, comfortable city-centre cafe has an exclusive clientele. When the weather is good you can enjoy the pavement cafe, from where you can watch the people going backwards and forwards to the Guggenheim, the Feria de Muestras trade show, or the Palacio de Congresos. You can also use its private dining rooms or its catering service, and enjoy seasonal specialities such as creamed gazpacho, a chilled soup, or hake with asparagus, etc. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Restaurant of Palacio de Congresos |
Avenida Abandoibarra, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48013 Spain +34 94 442 1071 |
This new restaurant inside the Palacio Euskalduna has made quite a splash and is one of the city's "in" places to eat. It's spacious with two dining rooms, one of which is private. Plenty of light and a spectacular mural on one of the walls are two features of this restaurant, as well as a fabulous terrace from which you can see part of the estuary and the Guggenheim Museum, a wonderful sight not to be missed. If the views are impressive, then the haute cuisine creations on offer at the Etxanobe restaurant are even more so. No menus of the day are served here; you order á la carte or choose a series of tasters. Some of the delights on offer are: carpaccio of Norway lobster with a vinagrette of smoked bacon, and roast squab on a compote of olives. The restaurant and the elegant and sophisticated building it's in will no doubt be the location of many spectacular events in the city. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Stews among classical and Basque music |
Euskalduna, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain +34 94421 3125 |
This is a restaurant in which the decor pays homage to the Basque classics of music. The establishment is decorated with mementos that evoke the opera and Basque musicians. Following the music analogy, we have to say that the cooking in the Euskaldena interprets the classic Basque repertoire perfectly. Nothing jars, there are no false notes. This is the place for those who know how to appreciate their music, which comes free with good cooking. The two arts complement one another perfectly here. To whet the appetite, here are a few suggestions: Vegetable Stew, Baked Sea-bass, Prime Rib, and Peaches with Walnuts and Cream. As for wines, there is a 92 Lan or an Imperial, Gran Reserva. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sergio Rodríguez |
 Photo: Josu Orbe  |
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Traditional restaurant and barbecue |
Rodríguez Arias, 56 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48011 Spain +34 94 441 9761 http://www.farketa.com/ |
This place is a combination of restaurant and grill. The grill is open for all to see the dishes they are about to enjoy. Fresh fish is the star menu item, although in this elegant establishment everything is top quality. Not only are the dining menu items delicious, but the "pinchos" (canapés) served at the bar are also very popular. Apart from the grilled fish, the chopped ribs served as an appetiser are also highly recommended. But if you fancy something else, you can always order hake "Farketa", juicy prime rib, or a charcoaled angler fish. There is something for all tastes, and the price-quality ratio is excellent. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Generous portions! |
Alameda San Mames 39 Bilbao, Vizcaya Spain +34 94 422 3835 |
This Chinese food place serves the usual fare, such as Rollo Primavera, Tallarines, Arroz Frito con Pollo and Gambas. It also serves Dim Sum on weekends. The average price for a meal is approximately EUR8. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Basically family restaurant |
Bertendona, 2 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain +34 94 415 5644 |
For twenty yeras the Gaiko restaurant has been offering excellent service to customers who are not reticent about saying that they feel at home here. This establishment of 400 square metres has five dining rooms, all decorated with various pastoral scenes from Bilbao's past. The restaurant is a favourite stopping place with tourists visiting the Guggenheim Museum and these days, it is advisable to book. Home cooking at a reasonable price is what's on offer and here are a few recommendations: cod cooked "al pil-pil", charcoal-grilled ribs, juicy fillet and sirloin steaks. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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For informal dinners |
Rodríguez Arias, 71 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48013 Spain +34 94 442 5507 |
The entrance to this restaurant is unusual: a stone arch surrounded by creepers and grilled windows, reminiscent of an Andalusian farmhouse, greets visitors. Once inside, a small but comfortable bar offers informal dining. In the dining room proper, whose decor is based on light tones and hardwood, there is menu service and the cooking is home-style. In La Galea they prepare "seasonal dishes" and the service is excellent. Good fresh fish are the stars of the establishment, but there are other things, too, and here are a few suggestions: grilled sea-bass provencale, kokotxas (a delicacy of the underside of a cod's jaw) "al pil-pil" or in green sauce, lamb stew and ox sirloin. The "pinchos" dinners cost between 2,000 and 3,000 pesetas. The menu is another kettle of fish (and much pricier)! Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classic atmosphere and traditional cooking |
Alameda de Urquijo, 6 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain +34 94 416 9735 |
This elegant restaurant is situated in a central area of Bilbao. The simple but high quality cooking on offer in this establishment is its most outstanding feature. The clientele is elegant and well-heeled, and the hardwood decor makes for a classical atmosphere. In common with the majority of Basque restaurants, the style of cooking is traditional and here quality is of the highest importance. A few suggestions are: cod "al pil-pil", grilled fillet steak and spinach and prawn "revuelto" (stir-fried with egg). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Simple, smart, homely |
Particular de Estraunza, 4 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 441 5004 |
The decor of the Goizeko Kabi restaurant is simple and elegant: in a word, smart. The light coloured walls make the place spacious. On entering, there is a very intimate atmosphere, thanks to the special illumination of the dining room from the light coming through the windows painted with flowers and, in red, the restaurant's initials. This homely restaurant has a varied clientele. The cooking is traditional, though they always add a "pinch" of imagination. The home-made desserts are famous. The house specialities are: grilled hake "kokotxas" (a delicacy of the underside of the fish's jaw), squab cannelloni with grated Idiazabal cheese on top, and hake fried Bilbao style. It is one of the "best ten restaurants in the city" there. Considering the quality of this establishment, that comes as no suprise. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Classical, modern, English influence |
Alameda de Urquijo, 30 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain +34 94 443 4937 |
The Gorrotxa offers a good ratio of service, price and quality. It's true that the prices are a little high but luxury has to be paid for and that's what a dinner at the Gorrotxa is. The English style is evident in the careful and harmonious decor. Haute cuisine with a constant reference to Basque recipes is what you'll find at the Gorrotxa. The restaurant has a faithful clientèle that knows how to appreciate quality, which in this case does not compromise quantity. Here are some suggestions from among the many succulent dishes on offer: Sole in Seafood Sauce, Squab á la Crapaudine and Turbot cooked with Onions. From the extensive wine list we suggest: Viña Alcorta, Crianza del 95, at 1,800 pesetas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Almost a cultural centre |
Urrutia, 1 Plaza Indautxu Bilbao, Vizcaya 48010 Spain +34 94 410 2772 http://www.cafe-grafit.com/ info@cafe-grafit.com |
The Cafe Rock Grafit is a pleasant place to relax. Inside there are various areas where you can chat with friends, bars, stages, a billiard room and other rooms for social gatherings, shows or parties. The Grafit operates as a cafe, serving breakfast and speciality coffee: Bombon, Negri (which has a little squirt of coffee liqueur in it), Tropical (with banana liqueur) and Ketaman (with a splash of cinnamon liqueur). There is also a wide range of canapes, croquettes or sandwiches, all made on the premises with freshly cooked bread. It has a large room for cultural events, seating 60, which has a megaphone, a video, projectors and an ISDN line. Meetings can be held there, with lunch (canapes and drinks), if desired. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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French bistro style |
Alameda de Urquijo, 50 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48011 Spain +34 94 421 1845 |
Very much in the French bistro style, this spacious restaurant in a very popular district of Bilbao is equipped for special occasions. The quality of its cooking ranges from the most complicated preparations to the most typical appetisers. Not for nothing has the Gredos won the prize in "classic canapes in the omelette category". During the week this simply decorated restaurant is patronised by office workers, while at weekends the atmosphere is more homey. Here are a few suggestions: vegetable stew, cod, peppers stuffed with crab, and steak fillet with wild mushrooms. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cosy, homey grill |
Colón de Larreátegui, 12 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 423 2527 |
This grill is very well situated in the centre of Bilbao in one of the areas with the greatest concentration of services. This means that many of the restaurant's customers are office workers, especially at lunchtime. At weekends the grill attracts many people, especially the fairly well-heeled, but, being a spacious place, families, too. In the entrance area there is a bar-cafeteria in the same style as the rest of the establishment: mahogany furniture and open brickwork, giving the place an authentic and personal touch. The Asador Guetaria specialises in fish, and some recommendations are: Turbot Guetaria style, Hake Medallions Stuffed with Spider Crab, and for those who prefer meat, a good prime rib. Their wines include: Paternina (2,000 pesetas) or a Muga. The set menu is around 4,000 pesetas, but ordering á la carte is much more expensive at around 7,000 pesetas. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The Guggenheim restaurant |
Avenida de Abandoibarra, 2 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 435 9080 |
It is well-known that this restaurant owes its name to Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum and has also been open for two years. The establishment shows the same modernity as the building that houses it. The dining room is completely modern in design and build. The chairs are a creation of the famous museum's architect, Frank Ghery. As you can imagine, it is essential to book well in advance. The Guggenheim's chef is Martí Berasategui, so quality is assured. Apart from what's on offer on the menu, customers can choose from three different special menus: one classic, another contemporary, and the third based on seasonal ingredients. Here are some suggestions: Salad with marinated Anchovies, Glazed Cutlets, Rice with small Squid or Angler fish with Octupus Stew. As far as the desserts are concerned, they are all so good it's impossible to choose. The average á la carte price is 6,500 pesetas, though the special menus start at 5,000 pesetas. This is another good excuse for visiting the museum. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Half century of quality |
Gran Vía, 66 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48011 Spain +34 94 441 0543 |
Almost half a century in business guarantees the fame of Guria, one of the best restaurants in Bilbao. In 1983 they moved from the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter), one of the liveliest districts of the city, to Gran Vía, one of the main roads. The move did not, however, affect the essence of the restaurant which in 1997 underwent another change, this time internal. The Guria went from having one dining room to two: one á la carte and the other a cafeteria, which has almost managed to be more successful than the original. In this 'cafeteria' you can order the same high quality dishes at more accessible prices. Luxurious and good cooking: what more could you ask for? Recommendations include the cod either 'al pil-pil' (very slowly simmered) or 'a la Vizcaina', Irish toast, peppers stuffed with veal and goose livers, oxtail in red wine, and rice pudding with milk and pears. Their best wines are the Cotino, '94 Reserva and Viña Arana, '89 Reserva. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home-style fare with quality products |
Ercilla, 28 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 443 7011 |
This simply decorated, home-style restaurant is almost half a century old. It is homey, not only because of the service, but because of its dimensions: the dining room has only six tables. It is therefore advisable to book well in advance. The El Kirol is an á la carte restaurant where a meal can cost up to 7,000 pesetas per person, but the quality is guaranteed. It is known for its exquisite vegetable stew and its preparations of hake, tripe and pigs' snouts. These dishes, and many more, are prepared in the purest home-made style and to accompany them what better than the house wine, a Paternina Banda Oro, at 1,700 pesetas? Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Excellent restaurant, famous for "pinchos" |
Diputación, 1 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 423 9240 |
This is an excellent traditional restaurant. A simple bar welcomes the customer who can whet his appetite here sampling the succulent "pinchos" (canapés). In the rustic dining room, customers can enjoy Lekeitio's specialities, which are: baked red bream, grilled ribs, hake "a la romana", and "pinchos" such as "the best peasant omelette in the city". All of the ingredients, such as the meat and fish, are of a high quality. The restaurant has even won prizes in the Bilbao "pinchos" competition. The menu is á la carte, with no daily specials. During the summer months it is closed on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Fish and seafood in English atmosphere |
Colón de Larreátegui, 5 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain |
Maider is not a very large restaurant, with seating for 50 customers. However, class, elegance and quality are not compromised. Wood is the main feature in the decor of this restaurant, which has a very English atmosphere. Situated in one of the areas of the city with most offices per square metre, during weekdays the Maider's clientele comes largely from the working world: executives and office workers. At weekends the atmosphere is more homey. Fish and seafood are the specialities of the house, though seasonal dishes are also an important feature. The best seafood comes from the establishment's own nursery and the most popular dish is barbecued seafood. Fish is also very popular among the customers. The house wine is a Rioja Crianza and costs 1,500 pesetas a bottle. The average cost of a meal here makes it the ideal place to sample quality seafood at a reasonable price. This restaurant is closed from the end of July to the middle of August approximately. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Outstanding Italian restaurant |
Marqués del Puerto, 10 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain |
As it's name suggests, this is an Italian restaurant and one of the best in the city. The elegant bar at the entrance can be seen through the large glass doors. The classical brick and stone of the walls contrasts with the modernity of the establishment. The atmosphere is pleasant and the clientele is mainly young in this restaurant where quality takes precedence over everything. As should be the case with a good Italian restaurant, pasta is the speciality. Here are just a few examples of what is on offer here: various salads, a selection of pastas, pasta with meat, and let's not forget the cakes and home-made ice-creams, all of which are delicious. This is an ideal place for celebrations of all sorts. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Young atmosphere and quality cooking |
Henao, 3 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 424 6311 |
Originality is one of the main characteristics of this restaurant which is situated in one of the city's most central areas. A restaurant of high quality and an unconventional atmosphere, the decor of the María Mani's dining room is, to say the least, curious. The walls are scarlet in colour with large cardboard or papier maché figures, as well as period costumes, hanging from them. A small bar with stone walls leads into the dining room. The service is very attentive and the cuisine is contemporary and prepared with seasonal ingredients. On working days a very reasonable and satisfying menu is offered, while at weekends there are special menus for lunch and dinner. Here are a few suggestions: paté salad, mushroom "revuelto" (stir-fried with egg), steak fillet slices, skewered angler fish, stuffed peppers or sirloin steak. They offer a great and wholesome variety that will not let you down. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Almost Victorian style and traditional cooking |
Ledesma, 26 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 424 8495 |
In 1987 this restaurant underwent restoration work in an effort to return it to the splendor that had characterized it since its founding in 1955. After this refurbishment, the Matxinbenta is a restaurant with two very distinct dining rooms, each with its own separate entrance. One of them, the original, maintains its 19th century style, while the new one is more contemporary, without losing any style or elegance. In a select atmosphere, traditional Basque cooking is served. The restaurant happily distances itself from the generally modern trend of meager-sized portions. Here are a few suggestions: cod Matxinbenta style, fried hake with red peppers, home-made goose paté and sea-bass with fennel. As for wine, we recommend an 85 Añares Crianza. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A Jabugo classic |
Ercilla, 14 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 423 3914 |
This establishment specializes in one of the most typical ingredients of Spanish gastronomy: Iberian ham, or, more specifically, that of Jabugo. It is probably one of the foods most asked for by foreigners and one that is surprising in being so uncomplicated yet delicious. Because it's a popular food, though, does not mean it should be eaten any old how in any old place. The Mesón Cinco Jotas offers a select and elegant atmosphere in which to sample its other specialties, such as the "chacina", which is a sort of meat salad. The restaurant's products are all home-made, like the acorn-fed pork loin, "morcón", a morcilla made with a very specific piece of the animal's intestine (similar to a black pudding), country style morcilla, and other "gastronomic delicacies from the mountains of Andalusia". It is not just in Bilbao that this restaurant is popular. The Mesón Cinco Jotas is present in other Spanish cities, too. In Madrid, for example, it has several branches, all of which are always packed. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Modern establishment, French influence |
Gran Vía, 40 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain |
Although it's not yet ten years since the dining room of this restaurant was opened, it is already a classic. In the Metro Moyúa's kitchen they have managed to reproduce classic recipes and added a little imagination. The decor has a great deal of French influence and enormous windows allow a view of part of the Gran Vía, where the restaurant is situated, and the nearby square to which it owes its name: the Plaza Moyúa. In modern and elegant surroundings you can order a menu of the day for just 1,500 pesetas. The á la carte dining room is situated at the back of the restaurant. During the summer months you can enjoy all of these delicious dishes out on the restaurant's spacious terrace. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Hawaiian atmosphere |
Simón Bolívar, 28 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48013 Spain +34 94 422 2066 |
There is cooking from all around the world in Bilbao and even the sounds of the most envied islands in the world reach here. The restaurant has all the exoticism of Hawaii and a disco too. No effort is spared so that visitors to Moana Beah can experience all the warmth of Hawaii without leaving Bilbao. During the week a menu of the day is available and on Fridays and Saturdays you can enjoy a spectacular dinner that is practically unmissable. Throughout the dinner there are "minishows" that entertain customers while they enjoy the quality menu that changes weekly. Originality is the common denominator here. Steak fillets with surprising sauces, fish of all sorts, shark fin and lizard are some of the unusual dishes. At midnight the main show begins, with dances and Polynesian rituals giving an exotic touch to dessert. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Small but big on quality |
Gran Vía, 6 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain |
This restaurant has managed very well to compensate for its limited space with excellent quality cooking where the ingredients are treated with extreme care. Being situated in the Gran Vía, an area with many offices, it is not surprising that on weekdays the greater part of the clientele consists of company employees. It is also a very homely and intimate place, though, which is perhaps in some part due to its modest dimensions. El Monterrey is an exquisite bistro serving quality seasonal dishes at a reasonable price. Here are some specialities: assortment of vegetables, hake with king prawns, oxtail stew, and Monterrey flank of beef. From the extensive wine cellar, a good choice might be the Imperial, Reserva 91. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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A classic serving seasonal dishes |
Ledesma, 10 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 424 0737 |
The Nicolás restaurant has been in business for 60 years and is up there with the best of the classics. In the sixties it had one of its best times and then went through a bad period for a while. What goes around comes around, though, and in the last few years it has recaptured its prestige, thanks to its dedication to high quality. The entrance to this classic, rustic restaurant, which is situated in an old house in one of Bilbao's most central areas, is through a small but elegant bar. Traditional cooking with new and original touches is predominant. The specialities of the house are salads and fish. Some recommendations include: seasonal salad, Nicolás hake, charcoal-grilled paté with apple puree, and mussels mariné. The house wines are excellent, and if we have to choose one, then Marqués de Navarrete, Gran Reserva 85 is a good bet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of the most luxurious grills |
Licenciado Poza, 27 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48011 Spain +34 94 441 4133 |
The Asador Oteiza is not any old grill, but a very well equipped and luxurious place in select surroundings. An English influence is predominant in the curtains and upholstery of this establishment which has a mainly well-heeled clientele. Quality has always been this grill's maxim and has resulted in its becoming 'one of the best in the country'. The quality of the meat, the speciality here, is superb. Here are some recommendations: Kokotxas al Pil-pil (underside of hake's jaw cooked very slowly), Roast Steak Fillet, Gernika peppers, and the star of the show, Barbecued Prime Rib. As far as wine goes, there is plenty of choice, but the recommendation is Viña Alberdi. Although officially closed on Su, they make an exception when the Athletic de Bilbao football club is playing in the San Mamés stadium. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Good price-quality ratio |
Gran Vía, 87 Bilbao 48011 Spain +34 94 441 6000 |
This is the Hotel NH Villa's restaurant and it is situated at the end of the Gran Vía, very near the Palacio de Congresos de Euskalduna, one of the city's nerve centres. As well as hotel guests, therefore, La Pérgola's clientele is mainly business people and the well-to-do in general. Classic cooking with a modern touch is what is offered here. Simplicity is a maxim in this restaurant where the quality-price ratio is evident in the daily menus. Here are some recommended dishes: Sweetened Cod with Orange Risotto and 'pil-pil' froth, Baked Monkfish with Vegetables or Roast Squab with Mint. There are many good wines to choose from, but we particularly recommend the Campillo, Gran Reserva, at 1,800 pesetas. Lunch or dinner here is not excessively expensive as there are various menus to choose from, priced between 2,500 and 5,000 pesetas. Reservations can be made by internet as well as over the telephone. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Chinese Specialties in Classic Setting |
Arbolantxa, 2 Bilbao 48001 Spain +34 944 244 925 |
Casa Boa specializes in traditional Chinese cuisine and is a popular choice for locals and visitors alike. Choose from a wide selection from authentic duck and lamb dishes to prawns and stuffed calamari. The classic ambiance makes this restaurant an excellent choice for a relaxing lunch or dinner. Casa Boa also offers service for banquets or special occasions. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Chinese and Thai in a Family-Friendly Atmosphere |
Avenida Ferrocarril, 2A Bilbao 48013 Spain +34 944 41 3845 |
Finding a restaurant that the whole family will agree on is not an easy feat, but Restaurante Chino Dragon in Bilbao does the work for you. It offers a large selection of beef, chicken, seafood, and vegetable dishes prepared in either the Chinese or Thai tradition, which is sure to please all palates. Soda and fried shrimp are complimentary with all meals over 15 euros. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Traditional restaurant, large rooms |
Marqués del Puerto, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48009 Spain +34 94 424 1469 |
Traditional quality cooking is what we have here. The dishes are very carefully prepared in this restaurant, which is situated in a street running perpendicular to the Gran Vía. The dining rooms are large and spacious, and customers are "really comfortable" here. Furthermore, the Sarobe is one of the few restaurants in Bilbao to offer a no smoking area to customers. Many restaurants would, of course, like to offer this service, but are unable to because of limited space. Space is not a problem here, though. You can choose from the menus of the day at a table in the bar area or, inside the restaurant proper, choose from one of the special menus. These are some of the tastiest dishes to come out of the Sarobe kitchen: cod salad, avocado with shrimps, selection of vegetables, baked sea-bass, and leg of lamb with wild mushroom sauce. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Best place for traditional cooking |
Licenciado Poza, 16 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48011 Spain +34 94 421 2129 |
Traditional cooking is what's on offer at this restaurant, situated in one of Bilbao's busiest and most atmospheric streets. In the rustic and elegant surroundings of the three dining rooms on the first floor, the customer can order fresh fish and seafood of the highest quality. On entering, a bar with its own seafood nursery greets customers who can whet their appetites with the delicacies served Serantes. Here are a few suggestions: lobster salad, hake fillet with Kokotxas (a delicacy of the underside of a hake's jaw) and Clams, or the Fillet Steak. They opened a very similar branch, called Serantes II, at 51 Alameda de Urquijo. Again, the nearest metro is Indautxu and the telephone number is 94 421 1045. It also has its own seafood nursery, but apart from seafood and fish, the steak Wellington and Bresse squab are recommended here. Closed for vacation the entire month of September. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Bar with bullfighting memorabilia |
Ledesma, 5 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 424 1381 |
The Taberna Taurina is right in the centre of Bilbao. It is a good place for those who love bullfights as there is a bull's head on one of the walls, and there are bullfight posters, related mementos (different coloured laces for different breeds), old photos of bullfighters, etc. The Taberna Taurina serves various kinds of tortilla (omelette), including one with potato and slightly spicy peppers, or try the hot chorizo sausage canape. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Multi-cultural |
Luchana, 1 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48008 Spain +1 34 94 416 8181 |
A busy restaurant with a kitchen that shows culinary influences from all over the world, you'll find a wide range of imaginative dishes on the menu like endives stuffed with monkfish, prawns and country-style omelette with cod. It's so popular during the week you can't make reservations at lunchtime. You just have to turn up and hope you're lucky. The management organizes regular exhibitions of travel photography (to complement the exotic artifacts decorating the mahogany dining room walls) and other cultural activities. There's another branch on Calle Simón Bolívar, 17 (tel: 441 3523). Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Spacious, pleasant and vegan |
Alameda de Urquijo, 33 Bilbao 48008 Spain +34 94 444 5598 |
As its name suggests, this is a vegetarian restaurant. Only seasonal ingredients are used in the dishes prepared here. It is a restaurant on two floors with a dining room on each one, decorated in green, white and yellow. Stained-glass lamps provide the lighting and soft music entertains customers. No alcohol is served here, just water and juices. There is, therefore, no bar. It is a restaurant for all types of people: 'from the young to the very old and lots of foreigners', says the owner. The menu costs 1,200 pesetas and we recommend trying the very popular Swiss style aubergine (eggplant). In general no reservations are taken, except for large groups. Review © 2007, Wcities |
