Best Restaurants near Guggenheim Bilbao 2026
Titanium curves and contemporary cuisine - Bilbao's modern face
Updated weekly
About Abandoibarra
Abandoibarra represents Bilbao's remarkable transformation. Where shipyards and industrial docks once lined the Nervión river, Frank Gehry's titanium-clad Guggenheim Museum now rises - the catalyst for the city's reinvention as a cultural capital.
The "Bilbao Effect" transformed this former industrial zone into a showcase of contemporary architecture and urban design. The waterfront promenade, designed by César Pelli, connects the Guggenheim to the Euskalduna Conference Centre, with public art, green spaces, and design hotels along the way.
Dining here matches the architectural ambition. Contemporary Basque cuisine meets international influences in sleek, designed spaces. This is where chefs experiment, where visitors celebrate museum visits, and where Bilbao shows its modern face to the world.
By Design
Abandoibarra wasn't gentrified - it was purpose-built as Bilbao's cultural district on former industrial land. The restaurants cater to museum visitors, conference attendees, and design-conscious diners seeking experiences that match the architecture.
Cultural Dining
The Guggenheim attracts over a million visitors annually, many seeking dining that complements their cultural experience. Nerua, the museum's Michelin-starred restaurant, has hosted countless celebrities. The area's hotels attract international art collectors and architects.
How to Get There
From Bilbao Abando station:
- Walking:20 mins along the river promenade
- Metro:Moyúa station, then 10 min walk
- Tram:Guggenheim stop (direct)
Barik Ticket Info
Barik card works on metro, tram, and buses. Buy at metro stations.
Local tip: Walk along the river from Casco Viejo for the full experience - you'll pass the Zubizuri bridge and see the Guggenheim gradually reveal itself. It's spectacular at sunset.
Abandoibarra Venue Map
The Abandoibarra Hot List
Week of 22 February 2026
This Week
Greetings, food fanatics, and welcome back to the Abandoibarra Hot List! I'm your host, ready to serve you up the hottest dining destinations in Bilbao, all vying for the coveted number one spot. And for the EIGHTH week in a row, Gastronomía Bilbao is holding firm at the top! That's right, their incredible cuisine and top-notch service keep them king of the hill. But the competition is fierce! Beraia jatetxea remains a solid number two, dishing out deliciousness week after week. And Lucky Baster is still in the top three for the ninth week in a row!
It's a steady ship this week as Il Giardino Della Nonna, Gure Kabi jatetxea, Restaurante Porrue, Bistró, The Rooftop by The Artist, Ein Prosit, and Larruzz Bilbao all hold their positions! Likewise, Mugi taberna, Restaurante Batzoki de Abando / Abandoko Batzokia, La Batea Mejillonerías, Sir Winston Churchill Pub, Restaurante Zapirain, Mao, Las Lías Bilbao, Nerua Guggenheim Bilbao, PERIFLU BAR RESTAURANTE, Restaurante Asiático - ASIA CHIC, Kubrick Bar Bilbao, Restaurante Txocook - Restaurante de pintxos en Bilbao, Restaurante MINI Bar, Bar El Figón, Restaurante Sua San, and Restaurante Chino Tamaya all stick to their positions.
That's all for this week's chart, but the culinary landscape of Abandoibarra is ever-evolving. Will Gastronomía Bilbao continue its reign? Or will a new challenger rise to the top? Tune in next week to find out!
Rankings updated weekly based on composite scoring methodology · Only positive movements shown — every venue here is winning
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Abandoibarra FAQs
Yes, the Abandoibarra waterfront has excellent dining options. From the museum's own Nerua (Michelin-starred) to contemporary bistros and terrace restaurants along the river. The area attracts ambitious chefs drawn by the cultural tourism.
It's generally mid-to-high end given the location. Expect €15-25 for lunch menus and €40-80 for dinner. The museum restaurants are premium-priced, but there are more affordable options along Alameda Mazarredo.
Nerua is the Guggenheim's Michelin-starred restaurant, helmed by chef Josean Alija. It offers avant-garde Basque cuisine in a stunning setting overlooking the atrium. Reservations are essential, especially for weekend dinners.
Absolutely. The Abandoibarra promenade has several restaurants with terraces overlooking the river and the Guggenheim. Spring through autumn is perfect for al fresco dining with views of Jeff Koons' Puppy sculpture.
The waterfront includes the Euskalduna Conference Centre, Iberdrola Tower, Universidad de Deusto, and the Zubizuri footbridge by Calatrava. Several design hotels and the Alhóndiga cultural centre are within walking distance.
Still have questions? The best answers come from locals at the venue.
Rankings recalculated weekly from live Google review data. Our Hot Score weighs review velocity, recency, rating trend, and baseline rating — no editorial picks, no paid placements. We prioritise venues that offer experiences matching the area's architectural ambition.