Global Major Cities Guide

Sections

1. Azurmendi (3 Michelin Stars)

Cuisine Type: Modern Basque Cuisine
Location: Larrabetzu, about 20 minutes from Bilbao city center
Overview: Azurmendi, led by chef Eneko Atxa, is one of the most celebrated restaurants in Spain. It offers a unique dining experience that combines sustainability, innovation, and Basque culinary traditions. The restaurant is set in a stunning eco-friendly building with breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
Menu: Seasonal tasting menus featuring dishes like truffled egg, local seafood, and creative interpretations of Basque classics.
Approximate Cost: €250–€300 per person (excluding wine pairings)
Reservations: Reservations are essential and can be made online via their official website or by phone. Book several weeks in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.
Dress Code: Smart casual to formal. Avoid overly casual attire like shorts, flip-flops, or sportswear.
Dining Etiquette: Arrive on time, as the experience is carefully curated and follows a set schedule. Tipping is not mandatory in Spain, but rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% for exceptional service is appreciated.

2. Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao (1 Michelin Star)

Cuisine Type: Contemporary Basque Cuisine
Location: Inside the Guggenheim Museum, Bilbao
Overview: Chef Josean Alija helms this minimalist, ingredient-focused restaurant. Nerua emphasizes the natural flavors of local, seasonal ingredients, offering a refined and artistic dining experience that complements the museum's avant-garde setting.
Menu: Tasting menus with dishes like cod kokotxas (fish cheeks), Iberian pork, and creative vegetable preparations.
Approximate Cost: €120–€180 per person (excluding wine pairings)
Reservations: Reservations can be made online via their official website or by phone. It’s advisable to book at least a week in advance.
Dress Code: Smart casual. While formal attire is not required, avoid overly casual clothing.
Dining Etiquette: Plan your visit to coincide with a trip to the Guggenheim Museum for a full cultural experience. Inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions in advance.

3. Etxanobe Atelier (1 Michelin Star)

Cuisine Type: Creative Basque Cuisine
Location: Calle Juan de Ajuriaguerra, Bilbao
Overview: Etxanobe Atelier, led by chef Fernando Canales, offers an intimate and theatrical dining experience. The restaurant focuses on storytelling through its dishes, blending traditional Basque flavors with modern techniques.
Menu: Tasting menus with innovative dishes like foie gras with apple textures and seafood creations.
Approximate Cost: €150–€200 per person (excluding wine pairings)
Reservations: Reservations are required and can be made via their official website or by phone. Book at least a week in advance.
Dress Code: Smart casual. Avoid overly casual attire.
Dining Etiquette: The experience is highly interactive, so be prepared to engage with the staff as they explain the story behind each dish.

4. Ola Martín Berasategui (1 Michelin Star)

Cuisine Type: Modern Basque Cuisine
Location: Hotel Tayko, Bilbao
Overview: This restaurant is part of the culinary empire of Martín Berasategui, one of Spain’s most celebrated chefs. Ola offers a sophisticated dining experience with a focus on Basque flavors and techniques.
Menu: Tasting menus featuring dishes like red mullet, Iberian pork, and creative desserts.
Approximate Cost: €120–€180 per person (excluding wine pairings)
Reservations: Reservations can be made online via the Hotel Tayko website or by phone. Book at least a few days in advance.
Dress Code: Smart casual. Avoid overly casual clothing.
Dining Etiquette: Inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making your reservation.

5. Zarate (1 Michelin Star)

Cuisine Type: Seafood-Focused Basque Cuisine
Location: Calle Licenciado Poza, Bilbao
Overview: Chef Sergio Ortiz de Zarate specializes in seafood, offering dishes that highlight the freshness and quality of the ingredients. The restaurant is known for its elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere.
Menu: A la carte and tasting menus featuring dishes like grilled turbot, squid, and other seafood delicacies.
Approximate Cost: €100–€150 per person (excluding wine pairings)
Reservations: Reservations can be made by phone or via their official website. Book at least a few days in advance.
Dress Code: Smart casual.
Dining Etiquette: Seafood is the star here, so be sure to try the chef’s recommendations. Tipping is not expected but appreciated for excellent service.

6. Eneko (1 Michelin Star)

Cuisine Type: Modern Basque Cuisine
Location: Larrabetzu, near Azurmendi
Overview: Also led by Eneko Atxa, this restaurant offers a more casual yet equally refined dining experience compared to Azurmendi. Eneko focuses on traditional Basque dishes with a modern twist.
Menu: Tasting menus featuring dishes like Basque-style roasted lamb and local fish.
Approximate Cost: €100–€150 per person (excluding wine pairings)
Reservations: Reservations can be made online via the official website or by phone. Book at least a week in advance.
Dress Code: Smart casual.
Dining Etiquette: This is a great option for those who want to experience Eneko Atxa’s cuisine in a more relaxed setting.

General Tips for Dining in Michelin-Starred Restaurants in Bilbao

Timing: Spanish dining hours are typically later than in other countries. Lunch service often starts around 1:30 PM, and dinner service begins around 8:30 PM or later.
Reservations: Always make reservations in advance, as these restaurants are highly sought after. Many offer online booking systems for convenience.
Dietary Restrictions: Inform the restaurant of any dietary restrictions or allergies when making your reservation. Most Michelin-starred establishments are accommodating but require advance notice.
Tipping: Tipping is not obligatory in Spain, but leaving 5–10% for excellent service is a kind gesture.
Punctuality: Arrive on time for your reservation, as the dining experience is often carefully timed and curated.
Language: While most Michelin-starred restaurants in Bilbao have English-speaking staff, learning a few basic Spanish or Basque phrases can enhance your experience.

Bilbao’s Michelin-starred restaurants offer a unique opportunity to explore the rich culinary heritage of the Basque Country. Whether you’re seeking avant-garde creations or traditional flavors, these establishments promise an unforgettable dining experience.