Historic pintxo bar on Plaza Nueva, open since 1911, known for a quail-egg pintxo and salt-cod al pil-pil.
Café Bar Bilbao sits under the arcades of Plaza Nueva, the main pintxo square of the Casco Viejo. Travel guides describe it as one of the best-known pintxo bars in the city and date it to 1911. Its traditional bacalao al pil-pil and a pintxo of fried quail egg with jamón ibérico and foie gras are the dishes most often named.
Prices follow the usual Bilbao range of about EUR 1-3 (USD 1.15-3.45) per pintxo. The plaza is closed to traffic and is a fixed stop on most walking routes, so the bar is busiest at lunch and from 19:00.
| Price | € (pintxos about EUR 1-3 / USD 1.15-3.45 each) |
|---|---|
| Reservations | Walk-in only; pintxo bar counters do not take table bookings. |
| Address | Plaza Nueva, 6, 48005 Bilbao, Spain |
Signature dishes
- Quail egg fried with jamón ibérico and foie gras
- Bacalao al pil-pil (salt cod in garlic and oil emulsion)
Good to know
- Known for
- Plaza Nueva pintxo bar open since 1911
Location
Plaza Nueva, 6, 48005 Bilbao, Spain
43.2587, -2.9225 View on map
Highlights
- Open since 1911
- Under the Plaza Nueva arcades
- Quail egg and bacalao pil-pil pintxos
Tips for visiting
- Point to the pintxos on the counter or order hot ones from the board.
- Tell the staff what was eaten when paying; this is normal in the Casco Viejo.
- Go before 14:00 or after 20:00 to avoid the busiest crowd.
When to visit
Lunch around 13:30 or early evening from 19:30.
Accessibility
Step-free access and restroom facilities are not confirmed in published sources; visitors with mobility needs should phone ahead.
Frequently asked questions
Where is it?
On the Plaza Nueva arcade at number 6, in the Casco Viejo; Casco Viejo metro station is a short walk away.
How much are pintxos?
Typically EUR 1-3 (about USD 1.15-3.45) each; check the counter for current prices.