Bilbao is a beautiful city that is well known for its food and culture. Although it can be expensive to eat at the very best restaurants in Bilbao, you can eat well for far less at some of the hidden gems detailed on this page.
Local chefs have come up with unique ways to satisfy the taste buds of those that are on a budget. If you are planning a vacation to Bilbao, our tips can help you make the most of your budget.
Many Muslim travellers have discovered that they can find halal restaurants in Bilbao, making their trip to the Basque Country much more enjoyable. Halal food in Bilbao is a very popular type of food that is available throughout the city and the wider region.
Most Muslim travellers to Spain do not want to eat food that does not comply with the religion, and they will be very reluctant to eat food that is not halal, so it's wise for you to know beforehand where to go to. There are some restaurants in Bilbao that will be very familiar to those who have visited the city, but they are not necessarily halal-friendly.
Remember, Spain loves its pork based dishes, so it's best to avoid kitchens that mix regular and 'halal' options.
Restaurante Assafir
This cozy, Moroccan restaurant offers a large range of authentic Moroccan cuisines and dishes. The menu ranges from falafels to pastela to delightful desserts, all for a fair and average price. One of the best things about this restaurant is its food of course… But another thing is the location! The restaurant is only a 3- minute walk from the profound Guggenheim Museum so you can enjoy a lovely day out with your family and have a refreshing meal afterward. The staff and Assafir are very kind and attentive always checking up on your satisfaction.
I would 100% recommend the Assafir Restaurante to anyone visiting Bilbao with family or friends.
Restaurante Azian
Restaurante Azian offers some of the best dishes you will find in Bilbao- ranging from authentic Basque-inspired cuisine to handmade beverages. All of the ingredients are locally sourced so you can definitely count on the taste of freshness in your food. the workers are very polite and attentive, checking on you every now and again. The atmosphere is very romantic and cozy, somewhere good to go with a family or loved ones.
The prices on the menu are average for the portions and quality of food you receive. I have been to this restaurant multiple times and they have never failed to impress.
Artagan Restaurante
The Artagan Restuarante specializes in seafood dishes, all of their ingredients bought locally from the market next door, meaning all of the dishes are laced with freshness. . Although the menu is a bit pricey, I would say it is worth it for the experience and quality of dining you get. Two desserts that you must try are the classic cheesecake and apple pie, eating it anywhere else will never be the same.
Another thing that is worthy to point out is the plating, as you can tell from just a glance, a huge amount of care has been taken to plate the dish beautifully…very Instagram-worthy I must say!
La Ribera Bilbao
La Ribera Bilbao is located in a beautiful building, inside and out. The restaurant offers meals from brunch to late dinner, so you can take your time sightseeing before getting there. A highlight of the restaurant is the live music that is played during the evening complementing the liveliness of the restaurant. On that point, La Ribera has a very loud, street-food-like atmosphere so not ideal if you are looking for a quiet relaxing dining experience. The service is very friendly and talkative making sure you are at your most comfort.
The menu range isn’t that big but the quality of food there can and will compensate for that and the prices are average for what you receive…so really La Ribera is a restaurant you cannot miss.
Restaurante India Town
One thing I will never forget about Restaurante India Town is an amazing service. The staff are ever so kind and the owner will address you if there are any problems. The service is also very fast, but this doesn’t affect the high standard of food. India Town is also very child friendly, taking into account their spice tolerance levels and lowering it for them if requested. The restaurant as a whole is very clean and the tables are wiped down before and after your meal.
The menu is very extensive from authentic drinks and cuisines all for a fair price too. India Town is a must-go with your family in Bilbao.