When preparing for a trip to Spain, one essential aspect is indulging in the local cuisine. Spanning a diverse range of flavors and specialties, each region boasts its own culinary treasures, promising a delightful journey through the country's gastronomic landscape.

If you’re a foodie, like we are, with a penchant for exploring new culinary horizons, then pintxos should be on your radar! Originating from the Basque Country in northern Spain, pintxos (pronounced peen-chos) are a delightful form of tapas that have become a sta​​ple of the region’s vibrant food culture. These small, flavorful bites are typically served in bars and cafes, offering a perfect way to sample a variety of flavors in one sitting. Everytime we visit, we have to go pintxo hopping.

In the Basque Country, pintxos are more than just food; they are a social experience. Locals gather and hop from bar to bar, enjoying a pintxo and a drink at each stop. This tradition, known as a "poteo" or "txikiteo," is a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture, sampling different specialties along the way. It encourages mingling and conversation, making it a great way for visitors to immerse themselves in the local culture and meet new people.

Pintxos are small snacks, typically eaten in bars, and are traditionally skewered with a toothpick or similar item (the word "pintxo" comes from the Spanish "pinchar," meaning "to pierce"). They are often served on a slice of bread and can include a wide variety of ingredients, from simple to elaborate combinations. The creativity and diversity found in pintxos make them a culinary adventure, each bite a new experience.

OUR EXPERT TIPS!

Entering the Bar

Walk into the bar and you’ll immediately be greeted by a vibrant display of pintxos laid out on the counter. Don’t be shy; it’s part of the experience to browse and take in the variety of options.

Choosing Your Pintxos

Each pintxo is a small work of art, with a variety of ingredients and flavors. We recommend being adventurous. Don’t be afraid to try unfamiliar combinations. Part of the fun is discovering new flavors and textures.

Pro Tip: Many pintxos bars have a separate menu or a chalkboard listing hot pintxos (sometimes referred to as "pintxos calientes" or "pintxos calientes a la plancha"). These hot options might not be immediately visible, so look around or ask the bartender for recommendations. They often feature items that are best enjoyed fresh and hot, such as grilled meats, seafood, or elaborate concoctions that require heating or assembly.

You might say, “Me gustaría pedir pintxos calientes,” followed by the names of the specific dishes you want. Popular hot pintxos include:

• pintxo de txistorra - featuring txistorra, a spicy, cured sausage made from pork, paprika, and garlic, grilled to perfection
• pintxo de pulpo y gambas - combines tender octopus and succulent prawns, creating a delightful seafood duo
• pintxo de foie - features a seared piece of foie gras, perfectly caramelized on the outside and melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside
• pintxo de carrillera - showcasing slow-cooked beef cheek that’s incredibly tender and flavorful
  

While waiting for your yummy hot pintxos, continue to enjoy just as delectable cold pintxos you’ve selected.

Pace Yourself

Pintxos bars typically serve their fare throughout the evening, so there's no rush. Take your time to savor each bite and enjoy the atmosphere.

Timing

The best time for pintxos is typically around midday or in the evening. Bars can get crowded, so be prepared to stand and mingle.

Pair with Local Drinks

Pair your pintxos with local beverages like txakoli (a slightly sparkling white wine), cider, or a glass of Rioja. The right drink can elevate the flavors of your pintxos.

Close to the Guggenheim Museum

La Gavilla -  This charming bar offers a cozy atmosphere and a menu bursting with flavor. La Gavilla is renowned for its mushroom and ham pintxo, a perfect blend of earthy and savory notes that captures the essence of Basque cuisine. The bar's warm, inviting ambiance makes it an ideal spot to unwind and savor the local flavors.

Las Lias - Located in the trendy Indautxu neighborhood, Las Lías stands out as a modern pintxos bar that seamlessly blends contemporary flair with traditional Basque flavors. Just a short walk from the iconic San Mamés Stadium, this stylish spot has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors. Las Lías is celebrated for its seared tuna pintxo, a culinary masterpiece that pairs perfectly fresh tuna with a burst of innovative flavors.

El Sacacorchos - El Sacacorchos is a beloved pintxos bar that offers a true taste of Bilbao’s culinary tradition. Conveniently located near Doña Casilda Park, this cozy spot is perfect for both locals and tourists looking to indulge in authentic Basque flavors. El Sacacorchos is famous for its gambas a la plancha (grilled prawns), a simple yet flavorful dish that highlights the freshness of local seafood.

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🥘Embarking on a pintxos tour is like taking a culinary tour of the Basque Country in miniature. Each bar offers its unique twist, ensuring that no two experiences are the same. So, gather some friends, hit the streets of San Sebastián, Bilbao, or any Basque town, and dive into the delightful world of pintxos. Your taste buds will thank you!