If you’re visiting Bilbao, don’t miss the chance to taste its traditional dishes, a true reflection of the city’s rich Basque cultural heritage. Every bite connects you with the city’s history, traditions, and culinary creativity. Experiencing Bilbao’s gastronomy is as thrilling as attending an Athletic Club match, whether you are hopping between bars in the Old Town or dining near San Mamés Stadium.
Basque cuisine is renowned for its authenticity and its use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Tasting these dishes is a way to discover everyday life and those traditions passed down through generations, turning every meal into an unforgettable experience.
Pintxos: the essence of Bilbao’s traditional cuisine
Pintxos are much more than simple tapas; they symbolize the joy of enjoying Bilbao’s traditional gastronomy and social life. In Plaza Nueva and the Old Town, you’ll find a everything from grilled baby squid and anchovies in olive oil to vegetarian delights like Idiazábal cheese with roasted peppers.
Family-friendly tips: look for bars with stroller space, visit at midday, during aperitif hours, to avoid crowds, and don’t hesitate to ask about child-friendly options.
After touring San Mamés, enjoying pintxos is the perfect way to combine culture and
gastronomy.
Share your experience on social media and connect with fellow Athletic Club fans!
Marmitako: a traditional stew from the Basque coast
Marmitako is one of Bilbao’s most beloved traditional dishes. This stew combines fresh tuna, potatoes, onion, peppers, and tomato, all slow-cooked to achieve a rich and hearty flavor.
Suggested pairing: enjoy it with a glass of txakoli, the local white wine that enhances the freshness of the dish.
Many restaurants near the river serve marmitako as part of family-friendly menus, making it ideal for recharging after a walk through Bilbao or a match at San Mamés.
Biscay-style cod (Bacalao a la Vizcaína): a Bilbao classic
One of Bilbao’s most iconic dishes is bacalao a la vizcaína. It features cod gently cooked in a delicious tomato and choricero pepper sauce, achieving a perfectly balanced flavour that has won over locals and visitors alike.
Tip: try it in traditional, family-run restaurants, where culinary heritage blends with a warm atmosphere.
Fun fact: from neighborhood festivities to Athletic Club victories, this dish has long played an important role in the city’s historical commemorations.
Baby squid in their ink (Chipirones en su tinta): authentic Bilbao flavor
Known for their deep and intense flavor, chipirones en su tinta are extremely popular. Made with fresh squid, they are usually served with white rice to balance the rich character of the dish.
Restaurant recommendations: along the Basque coast and in the Old Town, you’ll find places that combine a family-friendly atmosphere with a strong culinary tradition.
Gastronomic history: this dish reflects Bilbao’s strong bond with the sea, something you can still feel around San Mamés Stadium, near the Nervión River.
Kokotxas: delicacy and versatility in Bilbao’s cuisine
Kokotxas, the most prized part of hake, have become increasingly popular in Bilbao’s traditional cuisine. They are prepared either in green sauce or pil-pil style, and their versatility allows them to be enjoyed as both tapas and main courses.
Something for everyone: adults and children alike can find a version they´ll love.
Side dishes: pair them with piperrada, a traditional Basque vegetable sauce, or with Idiazábal cheese, another classic of Bilbao’s cuisine.
Connect with Bilbao through its gastronomy and San Mamés
The blend of culture, football, and gastronomy around San Mamés is the key to fully enjoying Bilbao. If you’ve visited San Mamés stadium or attended an Athletic Club match, you can savour these five traditional Bilbao dishes in restaurants around Plaza Nueva, along the riverside, or in the Old Town. Every bite brings you closer to the city’s true essence.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your stadium tour, explore the history of the Athletic Club in the Museum, feel the excitement of a match, and enjoy Bilbao’s diverse gastronomy. The city and San Mamés are ready to welcome you with open arms!
