The 20 Best Cafe Restaurants in Basque Country

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.

Coffee Bar Heder offers varied tapas, daily specials, and homemade desserts in a cozy corner of San Sebastian’s Old Town. Guests highlight flavorful small plates such as nachos, chicken patties, and rice dishes, along with carefully prepared cocktails. The team provides attentive, welcoming service and helpful suggestions, creating a relaxed setting for both snacks and full meals.

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.

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.

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.

Cafe Obrador Okapi is a cozy spot in Bilbao’s old town, offering mostly vegetarian and vegan small plates with clearly marked options. Home-style tapas such as croquettes, spreads, and other bites are complemented by a selection of local beers. The staff provides thoughtful guidance on pairings, while indie music, rotating art exhibitions, and occasional live performances create a laid-back, creative atmosphere.

Cafe la Villa is a welcoming lunch-only spot near the Guggenheim serving fresh, home-style Spanish cooking. Guests choose from daily specials and set three-course menus featuring comforting dishes like duck with potatoes and simple house desserts. Attentive, personable service and a calm, convivial dining room create an easygoing break in the day.