Agape, a local affordable restaurant in Bilbao

🍴 Agape: Bilbao’s Hidden Residential Gem (Named One of Spain’s Best Lunch Deals!) As the capital of Spain’s northern Basque region, Bilbao is brimming with fantastic local eateries. But Agape—tucked away in a quiet residential alley—was our trip’s sweetest surprise. This unassuming spot isn’t just good; its weekday lunch menu (Menu del Día) has earned a spot on Spain’s top 10 list. And after tasting it? We get why. 💰 The €18 Feast That Will Leave You Stuffed For just €18, the Menu del Día includes: A starter, main course, and dessert A drink (wine or water) Fresh bread It’s a mountain of food—enough to leave you “eating until you can barely walk,” as locals might say. When it comes to value for money? This is royalty. 👑 🥘 The Dishes: Simple, Fresh, and Unforgettable Agape’s magic lies in its straightforward, high-quality cooking: Starters: We tried squid ink rice and pumpkin soup. The rice? Spectacular. Rich, briny, and served with a creamy alioli that had us scraping the bowl clean. The soup, velvety and warm, was the perfect complement. Mains: Pan-fried mackerel with eggplant (crispy skin, tender flesh, zero fishiness) and slow-braised ox tongue with sweet potato purée. The tongue? Fall-off-the-bone tender, smothered in a sweet onion sauce that balanced its richness. Desserts: A highlight for anyone with a sweet tooth. Their Basque cheesecake, nutty cheese cake, and tiramisu—all made with goat’s milk cheese—are game-changers. Creamy, not cloying, with subtle fruit notes that cut through the richness. They rival dedicated bakeries, easy. 🌟 The Little Extras That Make It Special Vibe: Cozy and thoughtfully designed, with a warm, lived-in feel that’s equal parts stylish and welcoming. Service: The owner is (warm and witty)—even squeezed us in without a reservation, giving us 90 minutes to savor the meal. Local love: Packed with residents at lunch, which is always a good sign. 📍 Final Thought Agape isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a masterclass in why Basque cuisine shines. For €18, you get a meal that’s delicious, generous, and full of heart. Just remember: Book ahead if you can (it’s popular!), and arrive hungry. This hidden gem more than lives up to the hype. #BilbaoEats #BasqueCuisine #LunchDeals #HiddenGems #SpainTravel