🇪🇸 Bilbao | Must-try Pintxos bar!!

🥪 Diputazio Kalea 8: A Bilbao Pintxo Gem Even Locals Sleep On 😴 I’ve lived in Bilbao for years, walking past this spot on Diputazio Kalea countless times, always telling myself, “I’ll try it soon.” Today, hunger and a lucky detour finally made it happen. No reservation, just a quick walk - in—and I’m kicking myself for waiting so long. 🤦‍♀️ By the time I slid onto a bar stool, my stomach was growling, so I abandoned all restraint: five pintxos, ordered in quick succession, no plan beyond “that looks good.” When the bartender rang me up, he glanced at the empty toothpicks scattered in front of me and grinned. “You’ve got an appetite!” he said, shaking his head. Can you blame me? 😂 🐦 The Highlights: No Duds, Just Delights 😋 Blind ordering can be risky, but here? Every bite hit. The star? Undoubtedly the foie gras pintxo. Thick, velvety slabs of foie—so plump they jiggled when the bartender set it down—piled high on a slice of bread toasted to a perfect crunch. The richness of the liver melted into the crust, creating that ideal contrast of creamy and crisp. No skimping here—just pure, indulgent flavor. 👌 The other four? Equally solid. Think: fresh anchovies glistening with olive oil 🐟, a melt - in - your - mouth ham and manchego combo 🧀, and a zesty roasted pepper number that cut through the richness. Each pintxo felt like a small, thoughtful creation—no shortcuts, just quality ingredients doing the work. 🌟 💰 The Verdict: €15 for a Feast 🍽️ Five pintxos later, I left full, satisfied, and only €15 lighter. For a midday meal in central Bilbao, that’s a steal. This isn’t a flashy spot—no trendy decor, no Instagram - worthy plating—but that’s the charm. It’s a neighborhood staple, where locals pop in for a quick bite, and the bartenders remember regulars’ orders. 🥰 If you’re wandering Abando around lunchtime, skip the tourist - packed squares and duck into this hole - in - the - wall. Grab a stool, order freely, and let the bartender’s amused smirk be your guide—you won’t regret it. 😎 #BilbaoPintxos #LocalEats #SpanishStreetFood #BilbaoHiddenGems #LunchSpots