Recommended by locals in Bilbao

🍢 Bilbao’s Best Pincho Moruno Spots: A Local’s Guide to Juicy Lamb Skewers Craving that smoky, spiced kick of pincho moruno (Spanish lamb skewers) in Bilbao? These three spots serve up the goods—but each has its own vibe. Here’s the lowdown, from a regular chasing that perfect bite. 1. 🔥 Melilla y Fez: The Local Secret (Best for Lamb Lovers) 📍 Iturribide Kalea, 7, Ibaiondo Tucked in the old town, this tiny tavern is a hidden gem—only locals seem to know about it. When (colleagues) and I crave pincho moruno, this is our first stop. The skewers: Cooked to perfection—juicy, tender, with just a hint of lamb flavor (no overpowering gaminess). Bonus: Their olives are excellent—briny, fresh, and a great pre-skewer snack. The sauce hack: Their hot sauce is fiery. If you love yellow lantern chili or ask for extra spice at Sichuan hot pots? Ask for “más picante.” But fair warning: The owner adds extra lemon juice to tone it down—if you want pure heat, say “sin más zumo” (no extra juice). ⚠️ Heads up: Closed Mondays, and shuts 3-6 PM. Watch your step in the old town after dark. 2. 🏰 Café Iruña: The Moorish Vibe (More for Photos Than Lamb) 📍 Colón de Larreátegui K., 13, Abando Famous for its Moorish-style decor, this spot’s great for groups and photos. But when it comes to pincho moruno? The skewers: Decent, but nothing special—juicy enough, but lacking the depth of Melilla y Fez. Perks: Spacious, open all afternoon, and serves a wide range of other pintxos if you’re craving variety. ⚠️ Catch: Packed with tourists at mealtimes, and the lamb skewers play second fiddle to the ambiance. 3. 🐑 El Pintxito: The Local Crowd (Bold Lamb Flavor) 📍 Poza Lizentziatuaren Kalea, 24, Abando Mostly locals here, which is always a good sign. Their pincho moruno has a bit more lamb character than the others—still totally manageable, just more pronounced. The skewers: Well-cooked, with that satisfying char. The gaminess adds a nice edge if you like bold meat flavors. Bonus: Surrounded by other great eateries if you want to hop around. ⚠️ Downside: Other pintxos are so-so, and prices are steeper than the others—lower (value for money). 🥇 The Verdict? For pure pincho moruno perfection: Melilla y Fez. For ambiance and variety: Café Iruña. For a local vibe with bolder lamb: El Pintxito. No matter which you pick, you’re in for that smoky, spiced goodness—Bilbao’s take on (the soul of grilled food). #BilbaoPintxos #LambSkewers #SpanishStreetFood #NorthernSpainEats #LocalFinds