The 20 Best Cafe Restaurants in Basque Country

Kafe Native is a cozy coffee bar set inside the local market, known for carefully prepared espresso drinks, chai, and fresh juices. House-baked pastries such as brownies and banana bread add a comforting touch, and guests can also purchase coffee beans. The personable barista-owner fosters easy conversation, creating a welcoming spot to connect with locals and the surrounding Basque culture.

Café Iturralde is a welcoming neighborhood spot known for its well-prepared coffee, fresh citrus juices, and simple breakfast plates. Guests highlight the crisp morning toasts, savory sandwiches, and especially the toasted brioche with jam. The staff offer helpful guidance through the menu, including in English, creating an easygoing start to the day in San Sebastián.

Bar Roma is a local pintxos bar in central Bilbao known for its clean, simple setting and counter display of skewers and tortillas. Guests highlight the flavorful pintxos, including tortilla specials, along with a well-regarded wine selection and coffee. The small interior and few outdoor tables attract a mostly local crowd, while the attentive, unhurried service creates an easygoing atmosphere.

Aitana Donostia offers modern Basque-inspired dishes with creative preparation and well-balanced flavors, from refined small plates to heartier options. A lively pintxos bar at street level contrasts with a quieter, more formal dining room below. Service is attentive and professional, and the team is notably accommodating, even to guests with dogs.

Bikandi Etxea is a tiny, cozy spot on the riverbank serving traditional Basque cooking with a focus on seasonal ingredients. A concise set menu is complemented by a few specials, featuring generous portions of simple, well-prepared dishes such as cod in pil pil sauce and marinated anchovies. Homemade desserts and the attentive, cordial service from the team create a welcoming, home-style dining experience.

Old Town Coffee offers carefully prepared specialty coffee and a contemporary breakfast and brunch menu in a welcoming setting. Guests highlight the smooth house brew, fresh-squeezed orange juice, and well-crafted options like avocado toast and acai bowls. Attentive, engaging staff and quick, polished service create an easygoing start to the day.

El Salon De Mi Casa Cat Cafe combines a welcoming, intimate space with a calm, playful atmosphere created by resident rescue cats. Guests can relax, study, or play board and card games while enjoying a menu that blends classic comfort dishes with more modern options, such as meat carpaccio when available. The cats are well cared for and free to interact, and the cafe supports a cat protection association with opportunities for adoption.

Geltoki Kafetegia serves homemade Basque dishes prepared with local products, from classic seafood and croquettes to vegetable tempura with assorted sauces. A dedicated vegan menu highlights regional flavors adapted for plant-based diners. The atmosphere is informal and welcoming, with professional, attentive service. An outdoor terrace by the park offers a pleasant setting, also suited to families with children.