Bilbao endured a tough 19th century with war and poverty as their main industry collapsed. But the “Guggenheim effect” and lots of amazing food has turned things around.
Pintxos
Everyone’s heard of Tapas, those little plates of food you get in Spain. But, in northern Spain they’re called Pintxos and they’re a little different.
Pintxos are native to the Basque region of Spain. While Tapas is often a smaller version of a larger plate (ración) or a full entre (plato), Pintxos are little snacks, rarely served as full plates. Most Pintxos are placed on a piece of bread and held together with a toothpick.
In Bilbao, and throughout the Basque region, Pintxo bars are a big part of socializing with friends and colleagues. Though you see lone diners in Pintxo bars, it’s more common for groups to gather, eat, and have fun.
Since Bilbao is near the Bay of Biscay, many Pintxos feature fish and seafood. Others have meat. You’ll also see lots of croquettes, little deep fried snacks filled with meat, cheese and/or vegetables. Some vegan Pintxos are available. Often, these consist of marinated peppers or sautéed mushrooms on bread. Vegetarians can find tortillas (omelets) on bread though you should be sure to confirm that they’re not made with ham (jamon).
There’s a good concentration of Pintxos bars in the Casco Viejo neighborhood. Bilbao is also home to Plaza Nueva, where there are tons of Pintxos bars.