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Best Pintxos Bars in Bilbao

Hanna Smith

Writer & Blogger

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Bilbao is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, and one of the best ways to experience it is through pintxos, the Basque Country’s answer to tapas. Pintxos are small snacks, typically enjoyed with a glass of wine or beer, and Bilbao is home to some of the finest pintxos bars in Spain. Here is a guide to the best pintxos bars in Bilbao, each offering a unique and delicious experience.

Bilbao Pintxos
Bilbao Pintxos
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Plaza Nueva

One of the best places to start your pintxos adventure is in the heart of Bilbao’s Old Town, Plaza Nueva. This historic square is surrounded by numerous bars, each offering its own take on traditional and modern pintxos. Here are a few must-visit spots:

Bar Charly Known for its exquisite seafood pintxos, Bar Charly is a local favorite. The gambas a la plancha (grilled prawns) and boquerones (anchovies) are particularly popular.

Gure Toki Gure Toki is famous for its creative pintxos, blending traditional Basque ingredients with modern culinary techniques. Try the pintxo de foie or the mini-hamburguesas, which are both highly recommended.

Café Bar Bilbao This bar has been serving pintxos since 1911 and is a classic spot in Plaza Nueva. The txampis (mushrooms) and jamón ibérico pintxos are must-tries here.

Calle Ledesma

Calle Ledesma, located near the Gran Vía, is another hotspot for pintxos lovers. This bustling street is lined with bars and restaurants, making it perfect for a pintxos crawl.

El Globo El Globo is celebrated for its award-winning pintxos, particularly the bola de queso (cheese ball) and the txangurro (spider crab). The ambience is lively, and the quality of the food is exceptional.

La Viña del Ensanche This bar combines the charm of a traditional Bilbao tavern with innovative cuisine. Their pintxo de solomillo (sirloin) and huevos rotos (broken eggs) are standout dishes.

Bertoko Berria For a more contemporary experience, Bertoko Berria offers a variety of pintxos that cater to modern tastes. The pulpo a la gallega (Galician-style octopus) and bacalao (cod) are top picks.

Ensanche District

The Ensanche district, Bilbao’s commercial and financial center, is also home to several notable pintxos bars. This area offers a mix of traditional and trendy spots, ensuring there is something for everyone.

La Olla La Olla is a traditional bar with a cozy atmosphere, offering a wide selection of classic pintxos. The tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelette) and morcilla (blood sausage) are highly recommended.

Casa Rufo A combination of a deli and a bar, Casa Rufo serves delicious pintxos alongside high-quality cured meats and cheeses. The chorizo and manchego cheese pintxos are crowd-pleasers.

Irrintzi Irrintzi is known for its fusion pintxos, blending Basque and international flavors. The pintxo de pato (duck) and pintxo de gambas (shrimp) are excellent choices.

Ribera Market

Located by the Nervión River, the Ribera Market is not only a place to shop for fresh produce but also a fantastic spot to enjoy pintxos. The market’s lively atmosphere and diverse offerings make it a must-visit.

La Ribera This bar within the market offers a variety of pintxos made with fresh, local ingredients. The bacalao a la vizcaína (cod in Biscayan sauce) and pimientos rellenos (stuffed peppers) are delicious options.

Bar El Txoko del Gourmet Another great spot in the Ribera Market, El Txoko del Gourmet serves high-quality pintxos with a gourmet twist. The seared tuna and cheese-stuffed mushrooms are popular picks.

Bar Baste Known for its generous portions and flavorful pintxos, Bar Baste is a must-visit. The jamón croquettes and chistorra (Basque sausage) are particularly tasty.

Tips for Enjoying Pintxos in Bilbao

  • Go with Friends: Pintxos are meant to be shared, so gather a group of friends and enjoy the variety together.
  • Try the Local Drinks: Pair your pintxos with local drinks like txakoli (Basque white wine) or a glass of rioja.
  • Don’t Rush: Take your time to savor each pintxo and enjoy the atmosphere of each bar.

Exploring the best pintxos bars in Bilbao is a culinary journey that offers a taste of the city’s rich culture and flavors. From traditional taverns to modern eateries, Bilbao’s pintxos scene has something for everyone.

 

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