Bilbao, renowned for its iconic Guggenheim Museum and rich industrial heritage, has firmly emerged on the global culinary scene. It’s no wonder this Basque city has captured the attention of the prestigious Michelin Guide. If you’re a culinary enthusiast, a trip to Bilbao promises to be a flavor odyssey, boasting Michelin-starred restaurants that offer unparalleled gastronomic experiences.
The Essence of Michelin Star in Bilbao
The Basque Country is a region that has masterfully blended tradition and modernity in its dishes. Bilbao, as its main metropolis, has been the birthplace of chefs who have reinvented Basque cuisine, elevating it to globally recognized standards of excellence.
Ola Martín Berasategui
Nestled by the river within Bilbao’s Tayko hotel, this first-floor dining haven showcases a harmonious blend of historic and contemporary design. Its exposed bricks and concrete beams proudly stand as a testament to the pioneering architectural spirit of Bilbao’s old town.
Stepping into this restaurant is like embarking on a gastronomic voyage, deeply rooted in the legacy of the renowned chef Martín Berasategui. Here, guests are invited to delve into his culinary philosophy, brought to life by his dedicated protégé, Raúl Cabrera, affectionately known as Pintxo. With unwavering passion, Pintxo recreates Berasategui’s iconic dishes, always emphasizing the purity of ingredients and the richness of flavors.
Al Margen
At the heart of Al Margen’s culinary philosophy is the belief in “savoring simplicity.” Nestled by the estuary, a stone’s throw from the iconic San Antón bridge, this laid-back eatery boasts a distinctive ambiance.
The unique stone pillars and vintage hydraulic tiles, juxtaposed with minimalist tables and a welcoming semi-open kitchen at its entrance, set the stage for a memorable dining experience. The dynamic duo, chefs Adrián Leonelli and Pablo Valdearcos, craft a thoughtfully curated menu that reimagines classic dishes with a modern flair. Their commitment to technique, playful presentation, and the finest seasonal ingredients shines through in every dish. Patrons can also indulge in a specially curated tasting menu.
Lasai
Drawing inspiration from the Basque term meaning “peaceful,” Lasai offers a serene culinary retreat tucked away in a quaint alley at the heart of the city, moments away from the river’s edge. This gem introduces diners to a contemporary rendition of age-old regional dishes. Through carefully curated à la carte selections and two signature tasting menus, the essence of Basque tradition is reimagined and served. Beyond its gastronomic delights, the ambiance at Lasai is ever-evolving, with rotating art exhibitions that refresh the space and engage the senses.
Yandiola
Nestled within the heart of the Askuna Zentroa civic and cultural centre, this Michelin-acknowledged restaurant stands as a testament to fine dining amidst art and culture. As guests step inside, they are greeted by a harmonious blend of modern interior design, accentuated by meticulously curated lighting, evoking an ambiance of sophistication and warmth.
The restaurant prides itself on offering a culinary journey that pays homage to time-tested traditional dishes, infused with a contemporary twist. Each plate tells a story of the seasons, ensuring that every ingredient sings with freshness and authenticity. Beyond just a meal, dining here is an experience, a symphony of flavors that celebrates the region’s rich gastronomic heritage within a modern architectural marvel.
La Despensa del Etxanobe
Step into a vibrant New York-inspired haven, conveniently situated adjacent to the renowned Etxanobe Atelier, with which it shares its culinary essence. The restaurant entices with visually captivating food displays, setting the stage for a gastronomic journey. Diners are treated to a symphony of flavors, where age-old traditional recipes harmoniously coexist with innovative, contemporary creations. It’s a place where the classic meets the modern, offering a unique dining experience reminiscent of the bustling streets of New York, right in the heart of the city.
Las Lías Bilbao
Venture into a culinary oasis where wine takes center stage, elegantly complemented by an ambiance that melds rustic charm with contemporary flair. This gastro-bar boasts a curated menu, offering traditional à la carte dishes alongside a vibrant selection of tapas and raciones, perfect for sharing and savoring.
But the true star here is the wine. The owner’s deep-rooted passion for vino is palpable, reflected in an expansive and thoughtfully curated list, with an impressive array of options available by the glass. It’s a haven for both food and wine enthusiasts, where each sip and bite promises an unforgettable experience.
Zapirain
Embark on a culinary journey at a storied establishment that, after gracing Lekeitio for over fifty years, has now found its new home in Bilbao. This restaurant is a beacon of timeless culinary traditions, with a spotlight on the ocean’s finest offerings. Dive into a menu where fish and seafood are celebrated, each dish reflecting the freshness and quality the establishment is renowned for. But it’s not just the treasures of the sea that shine here; carnivores can delight in their exquisite T-bone steaks, grilled to perfection.
A fusion of history, tradition, and gastronomic excellence awaits every guest in this iconic Bilbao establishment.
Txirene
Dive into the heart of Bilbao’s cultural nuances at a restaurant whose very name is a playful nod to the city’s vernacular, representing those with a mischievous sense of humor.
As you enter, you’re immediately greeted by the lively hum of a bustling tapas bar, where patrons mingle and share stories over flavorful bites. Venture further in, and you’ll find a dining space radiating modern elegance, setting the stage for an immersive dining experience. Here, the menu unfolds a rich tapestry of traditional dishes, each meticulously crafted and a testament to the region’s culinary heritage. A blend of whimsy, tradition, and contemporary flair, this restaurant promises an experience uniquely Bilbao.
Zarate
At the heart of Zarate lies a tale of a man’s unwavering dedication to the ocean’s bounty. It’s the story of a visionary who not only mastered the art of seafood cuisine but also continually evolved, evident in his innovative addition of a gourmet fish shop to his celebrated restaurant.
Chef Sergio Ortiz de Zarate began his gastronomic journey in the coastal town of Lekeitio, Vizcaya, quickly establishing his reputation with his impeccable rendition of baked wild fish. As he transitioned to Bilbao, his culinary canvas expanded, blending traditional techniques with contemporary flair, all while emphasizing the freshest of local ingredients. Yet, the cornerstone of Zarate remains Chef Sergio’s unparalleled expertise in fish, especially the treasures he meticulously selects daily from the ports of Lekeitio and Ondarroa. Here, every dish is a tribute to Cantabria’s finest, crafted with passion and precision.
San Mamés Jatetxea
Nestled within the iconic Los Leones stadium, San Mamés Jatetxea offers a dining experience like no other. As you step inside, you’re greeted by a breathtaking view of the sprawling pitch, making every meal here feel like a front-row seat to the heart of athletic passion. The restaurant seamlessly merges the world of sports with culinary excellence. Guests can choose from a thoughtfully curated traditional à la carte menu, or embark on a gastronomic journey with their specially crafted tasting menu.
Each dish is a celebration of flavors, prepared with finesse and attention to detail. It’s worth noting that the restaurant remains closed during match days, ensuring an uninterrupted and immersive dining experience on all other occasions. At San Mamés Jatetxea, the spirit of the game and the art of cuisine converge, offering patrons memories that linger long after the meal.
Andra Mari
Steeped in rich history, this restaurant has its roots firmly planted in the Asúa family’s ancestral farmhouse. Originally conceived as a haven of rest and nourishment for pilgrims making their way to the historic 13th-century Andra Mari church, its name pays homage to this noble purpose.
Perched with a panoramic vista of the Ibaizábal river valley, this charming establishment beckons guests with its timeless allure. Beneath its floors, a storied wine cellar awaits exploration, offering an intimate glimpse into the world of viticulture. Adjacently, a cozy bar sets the mood for a leisurely pre-dinner aperitif. Dining here is an experience for the senses, with two rustic-regional adorned rooms, each framing picturesque views that complement the culinary journey.
Boroa
Venturing to this enchanting restaurant is akin to stepping through the pages of a history book, immersing oneself in the timeless beauty and lush greenery of the Basque Country. Boroa, housed in a beautifully preserved 15th-century farmhouse, offers more than just a meal; it’s a sensory journey. The space opens up to a delightful terrace, where panoramic vistas of rolling valleys and majestic mountains beckon diners to pause and savor the moment.
Inside, the harmonious blend of elegance and rustic charm is evident in every corner, with interiors that pay homage to the building’s storied past while embracing modern comforts. Diners are presented with a meticulously curated traditional à la carte menu, a reflection of the deep-rooted Basque culinary heritage. Additionally, two tasting menus are on offer: the ever-evolving “Bizkargi,” which changes monthly, and the seasonally inspired “Txindoki.” Both menus champion the finest ingredients, bringing to the fore familiar flavors and impeccable textures that dance on the palate.
Arcos de Quejana
Nestled amidst the rolling hills and timeless landscapes of the Basque Country, Arcos de Quejana stands as a testament to the region’s rich heritage and culinary prowess. Drawing inspiration from its historic surroundings, the restaurant offers an experience that’s as much a feast for the senses as it is for the soul.
The stone archways and rustic ambiance transport diners back in time, creating an atmosphere of warmth and nostalgia. Each corner of the establishment tells a story, echoing tales of traditions passed down through generations.
Portuondo
Perched at a vantage point with sweeping views of the estuary, this exquisite establishment offers more than just a meal – it’s a visual and gastronomic feast. The shimmering waters below and the ever-changing hues of the sky serve as the perfect backdrop to an unparalleled dining experience.
Every dish at this restaurant is a testament to the region’s bountiful produce. Fresh catches from the Bermeo auction arrive daily, ensuring that the seafood on your plate is as fresh as it gets. Prime cuts of meat, carefully selected for their quality and flavor, are transformed into culinary masterpieces on the grill. The result? Dishes that are not only visually enticing but also burst with authentic flavors, each bite a celebration of the region’s rich gastronomic heritage.
Bilbao’s culinary richness is undeniable. Through our specialized tours, we offer you a window into the world of haute cuisine, taking you to Michelin-starred restaurants and allowing you to taste the essence of the Basque Country. Book your spot and discover why Bilbao shines brightly in the culinary firmament.
Irene was born and raised in Bilbao. She has a deep rooted passion for her country and culture. She has a Bachelors degree in education and has traveled to over 85 countries throughout the world.
List of professional guides in the Basque Country
