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 Classic Basque cuisine in Casco Viejo |
Jardines, 2 Bilbao 48005 Spain +34 94 415 6148 |
Apart from the classic Basque cuisine, this restaurant has two other attractions. The first is that it has been in business now for half a century. The second is that it is situated in the middle of the Old Quarter. The premises is located on a first floor and you can get to it through the bar or the separate doorway. This restaurant is characterised by its generous portions and affordability as well as its high quality. The place has had a faithful clientele for many years. Some recommended dishes are: special hors d'oeuvres of the house, Hake Fillets with Crab Sauce and Steak Fillet with Paté. To drink, try the 87 Barón de Oña or 81 Glorioso. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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Elegant Basque cuisine |
Elexalde, 22 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48960 Spain +34 94 456 0005 |
The Andra Mari restaurant is undoubtedly a monument of Basque gastronomy. Not only because traditional Basque cuisine is prepared on its stoves, but because the building itself pays tribute to Basque tradition. It's in a charming "caserío" (traditional country house) located next to a hermitage of the same name. Its exterior is worthy of admiration. Speaking of its whereabouts, we should mention that it is situated in Galdako, one of the most densely populated of the suburban municipalities and only 9 kilometres from Bilbao. Those without access to a car can get there by bus, which leaves from calle Bailén, next to the RENFE train station. One of the many wonderful things about this restaurant is its cellar: a real museum dug out of stone and well worth seeing. Among the many recommended dishes are: risotto of various wild mushrooms, cod cooked with beans and clams, squab with glazed fruits and macaroni stuffed with anchovy mousse. A good bottle of wine from the well stocked cellar is the 95 Conde de Valdemar. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Wonderful views and cuisine |
Barrio Elexalde, 20 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48960 Spain +34 94 456 7671 |
The Aretxondo restaurant is owned by the same people who run the nearby Andra Mari. It offers the best Basque, or more specifically, Vizcayan cuisine. It is situated on the mountain's slope and has spectacular views: in short an idyllic place. Just like its twin, the Andra Mari, the Aretxondo has an excellent cellar which is also dug out of stone and is also located in Galdako, some 9km from Bilbao. Here are a few suggestions: fillet steak in a herb crust or the grilled sole with anchovies. For the first fortnight of August this establishment is generally closed for holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The purest Basque style |
Somera, 1 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48005 Spain +34 94 415 5019 |
This restaurant has a rather stately atmosphere and is entered through a small and cosy bar. It is situated just opposite the famous La Ribera market and in one of the most charismatic and typical streets of the Casco Viejo. It is an establishment frequented by company employees of forty and above. The tourist will have no problems in making himself understood here as the staff speak English. At lunch time during the week, you can sample the home cooking at a very reasonable price, the menu costing just 1,050 pesetas. During the weekends and evenings the menus are more elaborate and there is more choice, with prices ranging from 2,500 to 4,500 pesetas. First, you should take note of the starters: cured ham, fried asparagus, etc., and afterwards choose between the hake stuffed with pepppers, the cod "al pil-pil" (very slowly simmered), steak fillets with sauce or peppers, breast of duck with wild mushrooms; none of which will disappoint you. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Ideal for any celebration |
Avenida de Zumalacárregui, 125 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48004 Spain +34 94 446 4858 |
In Alto de Begoña, one of the best locations of the Vizcayan capital, this restaurant has sprung up to prepare delicacies for visitors and locals alike. The restuarant was previously called Lasa, and had one of the best reputations in Bilbao. It was a classic. Today the Artagan restaurant has the same ambition and is doing much to earn it. To get to the restaurant you can get the elevator at the Mellona exit in Casco Viejo. You can also get a bus that goes up to the Alto de Begoña from outside the Bilbao town hall (Ayunatamiento). It is an ideal place for family get-togethers and also business meetings. In this restaurant, tradition becomes an art. The specialities are all types of grilled fish and meat. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Typical Spanish barbecue |
Egaña, 27 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48010 Spain +34 94 443 0664 |
This spacious establishment with seating for 140 has in seven years become the perfect place to get to know and taste authentic Castilian cooking. The three separate dining rooms are decorated in the typical Castilian style, with hardwoods much in evidence. At weekends there is a predominantly family atmosphere at the Asador Aranda, while during the week it is a popular place for business lunches. The size of the establishment allows it to cater for dinners and events with large numbers of people. It is a grill in the Castilian style, which means its speciality is roast spring lamb. They are also specialists in what is called Castilian seafood, which in fact has nothing to do with seafood, being cured meat dishes like ham, chorizo, morcilla (black pudding) sausages, and grilled peppers and sweetbreads. As will be appreciated, these are quality products from the wide expanse that is Castile. Thursday is a very special day to visit the restaurant because as well as spring lamb they also prepare suckling pig. The house wines could only be from La Ribera del Duero, sure to complement your meal. They generally close for holidays the first fortnight of August, but it is recommended to check. 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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Elegant restaurant in country house |
Barrio Atxondoa, s/n Bilbao, Vizcaya 48300 Spain +34 94 625 3408 |
This restaurant is situated 36km from Bilbao in the famous town of Gernika. In a more than idyllic spot there is an old country dwelling that houses one of the best restaurants in the province. This place is well worth a visit, not just because of its history and the surrounding countryside, but also because of its cooking. Traditional cooking is the order of the day here. The interior of the 18th century house and the outside countryside is impressive, offering the best example of Basque nature. If the interior decor and landscape are delights, the culinary creations are no less so: sea-bass with eggs "al pil-pil" (slowly simmered), red mullet fillets on rice, oxtail, cod neck baked in a firewood oven, and for dessert, a delicious home-made chocolate soufflé. If you do not have access to a car, you can get to Gernika to visit this splendid restaurant by taking a bus from the number 4 stop. It leaves every fifteen minutes from 7.15a to 8p. 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 |
 Elegant and exclusively for male |
Navarra, 1 Bilbao 48001 Spain |
Climbing from the the Arenal bridge and walking to the calle Navarra, we come across the distinguished building which has been declared of cultural interest and houses one of the most select private clubs in the Vizcayan capital, created in 1839. In its beginnings, La Sociedad Bilbaína had its headquarters in Plaza Nueva, but in 1913 it moved to its present site. This building with its emblematic facade and large bay windows, was built by Emiliano Amnan. Founded as a place of relaxation and recreation in the purest European style of the time, this magnificent club has one of the most important private libraries in Spain, containing more than 40,000 volumes, including incunabula. This outstanding building is opulently decorated inside, and some of the most important personalities in the areas of economics, finance and culture have passed through its doors. Apart from general club rooms, it has areas for games like chess and billiards. The general public are allowed into its restaurant and English bar. Women cannot become members of the Sociedad Bilbaína. Given the matriarchal nature of Basque society, it is worth respecting the exclusive masculinity of this domain. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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The cod recommended here |
Enrique Eguren, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48012 Spain +34 94 443 5026 |
The Bola-Viga restaurant is synonymous with cod. This restaurant situated near the Vista Alegre bullring is known as "the cod house". In the Bola-Viga, whether you have your cod "á la Vizcaína", "al pil-pil" or however, you can rest assured it will be delicious. This establishment of traditional Basque cuisine has a fairly well-heeled clientele, being a specialist restaurant and not exactly cheap. But this restaurant seating 30 people offers more than just cod; oxtail and hake are also good choices. Other creations from the Bola-Viga kitchen are: cooked and pickled paté and grilled fresh "kokotxas" (a delicacy of the underside of a hake's jaw) while the desserts are all home-made. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Unusual restaurant |
Hurtado de Amézaga, 5 Bilbao 48008 Spain +34 94 443 2172 |
Casa Rufo was founded in 1955, but not as a restaurant; it was originally a shop and, although it has been a restaurant for five years, it has not abandoned its original business. Casa Rufo is, then, probably different from any other restaurant. A rustic atmosphere is created by the stone and wood decor. It is the restaurant of choice for 'executives, politicians, artists, foreigners, etc...' The speciality here is meat. The visitor here should try a good Chop or Fillet Steak. The Cod Fillet is also very well prepared, as are the Paté and the Anchovies. They also assure us that the croquettes are a lot of people's favourites. Given that the meat is not exactly cheap, you should come here prepared, though the prices are not too outrageous. What is certain is that not too many students are found eating here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Legendary kitchen |
Avda. Lehendakari Aguirre, 13-15 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48014 Spain +34 94 448 3980 http://www.casavasca.com/ |
This restaurant is a real museum of gastronony. It has been open for thirty years and if one thing characterises la Casa Vasca it is its immensity. In 5,500 square metres there are a disco, a bingo hall, a pastry shop and a restaurant with a dining hall for 180 people and three more rooms that together can seat a further 200. As if this were not enough, there are also three private dining rooms that can each seat 25. The decor is worthy of admiration. Each piece of furniture, each window and the base supporting each column, are all worthy of being exhibited in a museum. No less impressive is what is prepared in the stoves of its kitchens, all with "true traditional flavour". Here are a few examples: Angler Fish baked with Vegetables, Hake with Green Sauce or Slices of Ham off the Bone with Country Peppers - to mention just three of the delicious dishes on the menu. It must also be pointed out that Casa Vasca uses only seasonal products. The desserts here are especially worth sampling as they are all home-made. The Chocolate Profiteroles are particularly popular. 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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Elegance next to a windmill |
Carretera de la Galea, 30 Bilbao 48990 Spain +34 94 491 1700 |
Situated in one of the most privileged areas on Bilbao's outskirts, Cubita is located in Punta Galea, semi-detached to the Aixerrota windmill that dates from the beginning of the 18th century. At this restaurant you can enjoy good classic cooking and fabulous views at the same time: the mouth of the Nervión river (or the Bilbao estuary, depending on how you look at it). To get to the restaurant, which is situated 15km from Bilbao in Getxo, you can take a short and pleasant trip along Punta Galea from the Bidezabal station, until you come to the Aixerrota windmill. The restaurant's decor is traditional and very elegant. The large windows afford a good view of the landscape. The wealthiest and most influential classes in Getxo frequent this establishment. Cubita's speciality is quality fish and the recommended dishes are: fish soup, a variety of starters and seafood, baked sea-bass and hake "á la Bilbaina". The restaurant is closed for holidays in August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Young but full of ideas |
Botica Vieja, 27 Bilbao 48014 Spain +34 94 476 1559 |
This is a recently opened establishment in the Deusto district, very near the Palacio Euskalduna. It's new and decorated in a modern and simple style. There is plenty of light here, and this is accentuated by the light tones that have been chosen, combined with the hardwoods. The dining room has a relaxed and informal atmosphere to enjoy the traditional Basque cooking with a modern touch that is prepared here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Famous for its appetisers |
Rafaela Ibarra, 12 Bilbao 48014 Spain |
The restaurant Dena Ona has been in the popular Deusto district of Bilbao for thirty years. Home-style traditional Basque cuisine is the speciality of this establishment. However, its fame is in no small part due to its appetisers, and it has won the regional award for best "rabas" (squid or cuttlefish breaded and fried in strips as opposed to rings). The decor is classical and "stately", as its owner defines it. It is a favourite with fairly well-heeled mature people of thirty and over. But man does not live on appetisers alone and in the Dena ona "everyhting is good", as its Basque name suggests, and we recommend the stuffed peppers, clams "a la marinera" and hake fillets with "kokotxas" (delicious meat from hake jaw). Wines are mainly Riojas here, and the 94 Azipilicueta at 1,600 pesetas is recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Typical tapas |
El Perro, 4 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48005 Spain +34 94 415 0242 |
Eguiluz's dining room is on the first floor of a building in the middle of the Casco Viejo (Old Quarter). Calle El Perro is one of the busiest "tapas" areas in the Vizcayan capital. In fact, apart from the traditional type of cooking offered here we recommend sampling the tapas at the bar. In the "txoko" style—the area of typical Basque houses where the family would get together to eat and decorated with walls painted white with beech edgings, this restaurant offers menus of the day. 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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Spacious restaurant in Hotel Indautxu |
Plaza Bombero Etxaniz, s/n Bilbao, Vizcaya 48010 Spain +34 94 421 1198 |
This is the restaurant of the Hotel Indautxu. It is a relatively new hotel and therefore, so is its restaurant. However, in a few short years it has managed to demonstrate its quality. In cosy, pleasant and modern surroundings, customers can appreciate the refined cooking based on traditional dishes that is practised here. The size of the place allows for large gatherings and there is seating for up to 300. If, however, you want to escape the maddening crowd, there is also a small dining room where you can lunch or dine á la carte. Here are a few suggestions: scallop salad with gazpacho, oxtail in pastry, scrambled wild mushrooms and cod cooked in a variety of ways. There is an extensive wine cellar and one suggestion is the Muga, Crianza, at 1,875 pesetas. 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  |
 Photo: Javier Royo Gutiérrez |
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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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Barbecue and cider house |
Botica Vieja, 18 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48014 Spain +34 94 447 7062 |
Two in one: A cider house and a grill in the same place. It's a great idea for enjoying quality meat and fish and a natural and local drink as is the cider. La Gabarra is 17 years old and intends to continue serving delights to its business and tourist clientele for many years more. It is decorated in the "txoko" style, which is the area in traditional Basque houses where the family gets together for meals. Furthermore, for all true food lovers the kitchen is open-plan and in full view of the customers, just as the kitchen of a good grill should be. Red bream and ribs are a couple of recommendations, but there is still more. Before the main meal you can whet your appetite nibbling on portions of chorizo with cider, home marinated anchovies, cod omelette and tuna fillet. Advanced booking is advisable. La Gabarra is closed during Easter week and the entire month of August. 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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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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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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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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A flutter and...dinner |
Navarra, 1 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48001 Spain +34 94 424 0007 http://www.gran-casino-nervion.es |
An unforgettable soirée awaits the visitor to this establishment, because a visit to the Ibaigane restaurant also means a visit to the Gran Casino Nervión, a centre of recreation, games and guaranteed fun. But let's leave aside the fruit machines, the games room and the La Concordia bar and concentrate on the restaurant. A spacious and luxurious dining room awaits the visitor, with seating for 100 people in a cosy atmosphere. The vivid crimson upholstery, along with the subtle lighting, lends the place a romantic atmosphere. Of course, we're talking about the evening here, but during the day what's on the other side of the large windows is equally impressive: two features without which Bilbao would not be the enchanting city it is: the estuary and the Arriaga Theatre. Good Basque cooking conscientiously prepared is on offer here. Exquisite dishes come out of the Ibaigane kitchen, such as angler fish with sweetened potatoes, pigs' trotters stuffed with paté and olives and the famous cod "al pil-pil" (very slowly simmered). The wine cellar is very extensive and we recommend asking for advice when ordering a wine to accompany the delicious dishes. Finally, there are not many restaurants where you can dine seven days a week, and even less until 2:30 in the morning. A real pleasure. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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One of Vizcaya's most famous |
Avenida de Leioa, 24 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48990 Spain +1 34 94 491 2031 |
This is a luxurious place that offers sophisticated cooking in a chalet-style restaurant surrounded by pretty gardens 15km from Bilbao. You can choose from an informal glass-covered terrace dining room that's ideal for lunch on spring afternoons or a more formal dining room inside for winter evenings. It serves a range of traditional Basque dishes complemented by the chef's own imaginative creations that include sirloin of lamb with sweet onions and peach sauce, baked sea-bass with mushrooms and saffron oil, and sponge cake filled with chocolate for dessert. As for the wines, you'll find stars like a 1992 vintage Marqués de Vargas for 3200 ptas (EUR 19.23) and a superb Val de Reyes for just 1400 ptas (EUR 8.41). 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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Luxury and quality in Casco Viejo |
Perro, 3 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48005 Spain +34 94 415 0228 |
This restaurant is situated in one of the most popular streets of Bilbao's Casco Viejo (Old Quarter). It is a luxurious establishment with a decor that has been thought out down to the last detail. It also professes to offer "unbeatable service". Up-dated traditional Basque cuisine is the specialty. One of the dishes not to be missed at the Mandoya is the lobster, which comes from the restaurant's own nursery. But apart from the lobster, here are a few other suggestions: seafood and smoked fish salad, charcoal-grilled sea-bass or "chuletón" (steak) with garnish. There is also a large selection of home-made desserts. Mandoya normally closes from the end of July through the first week in August. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: 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 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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Cheerful place |
Plaza Nueva, 9 Bilbao 48005 Spain |
When the De Miguel brothers took over the running of this restaurant three years ago, they brought a 'spark of cheerfulness to the Plaza Nueva'. Each month the decor of the place changes, and its walls are an improvised gallery for the work of local artists. The restaurant owners are up to date and adorn the restaurant according to the calendar. During the April 'Feria', for example, the restaurant is decorated in the style of a Seville 'caseta' (a sort of marquee with a bar and dancing inside) which is erected during the fair season there. The same goes for the 'Carnavales'. The brothers proudly point out their first prize in the fancy dress competition for Bilbao establishments. Speaking of food, the Plaza Nueva offers homely Basque cooking with fresh fish from Lekeitio as the main protagonist. Recommendations are: cod 'al pil-pil' (cooked slowly), squid, and ham croquettes. "Txakolí' (Basque wine) and country cider are the preferred drinks here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Carlos Hoyos |
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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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Homely atmosphere, traditional cooking |
Barrencalle Barrena, 16 Bilbao 48005 Spain +34 94 415 0123 |
Good traditional Basque cooking in an almost family atmosphere is what we have here. On entering the Saibigain we are faced with a large bar, impregnated with the aroma of the cured hams hanging over it. The dining room is on the first floor and reached by climbing some stairs at the end of the bar. With exposed ceiling beams, the place is reminiscent of an old Basque country house. The service in this restaurant is outstanding. There is a choice between several menus priced between 2,600 and 4,500 pesetas. Some recommendations are: Appetisers of ham, pork loin or asparagus; Steak Fillet, Grilled Ribs or Cod prepared in the purest home-made style. 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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Classic gastronomy in Bilbao |
Carretera Basurto-Castrejana, 7 Bilbao, Vizcaya 48002 Spain +34 94 427 3021 |
The Taberna Rogelio is a restored classic in Bilbao and a spacious establishment on two floors. The tavern is on the ground floor and at the bar excellent appetisers are served. The restaurant is on the first floor, with a traditionally decorated dining room and a very homely atmosphere. Simplicity is a maxim here, in both the decor and preparation of the very traditional dishes served, but quality is never compromised. Among the products on offer at the Taberna Rogelio are ham and...cigars! That's right, cigars. According to the clientele "the best Havanas" are to be found here. But concentrating on the cooking, some suggestions are: hake "ondarresa" (a regional specialty), stuffed leg of lamb, and steak fillet. Review © 2007, Wcities |
