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Bar Los BotijosB+Worth Trying

Masustegi Estrata, 104, Basurtu-Zorrotza, 48002 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain · Restaurant, Bar · 4.6/5 Google (974 reviews)

Reservations · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Rustic, portions-first spot famed for giant cachopos and croquettes; great for groups, but service speed, availability, and outdoor seating comfort can be inconsistent.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

Bar Los Botijos delivers strong food quality anchored by legendary giant cachopos and generous portions that justify its loyal following, but day-to-day consistency issues—undercooked rice, soggy batter on busy shifts—prevent a higher grade. Friendly, attentive service and excellent value make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though long waits and rustic (rather than refined) execution keep it solidly in the casual dining tier.

Restaurant Summary

Tucked on a hillside in Masustegi, this spot feels like a neighborhood retreat where big groups pile around shared trays on a bustling terrace. Service comes with smiles when the pace allows, and one diner raved that it felt like eating in a small village. Expect rustic charm, hearty plates, and a lively crowd, though waits stretch at peak times and outdoor tables in winter can be brisk. Cooking leans classic Spanish comfort with an Asturian accent: giant cachopos for three or four, XL croquettes, and paellas that are better when preordered. It is all about generous portions over finesse; most plates satisfy, but a few reviews report soggy batter or undercooked rice when the kitchen is slammed. If you crave hearty sharing platters with good value, you will feel right at home. For families, the menu is friendly: simple salads, chicken, fries, pizzas, and mild paellas suit younger eaters. Portions are ideal for sharing, but note the terrace can be chilly in colder months and availability varies (burgers or gluten-free options may not be served every day). Families who value easy crowd-pleasers over ceremony will do well here.

At a Glance

What Sets It Apart

What People Love

Points of Concern

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€28-42 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Perfect For

Location Insights

Area: Residential hillside on Bilbao’s edge; rustic, local vibe suited to relaxed meals and gatherings.

Safety: Generally safe residential area; some reviews note nighttime cold and exposure outdoors; normal city awareness applies.

Nearby: Hilly streets, limited parking; feels like a small village despite being in the city; outdoor terrace central to experience.

Basurtu-ZorrotzaBasurtu-Zorrotza is a largely residential and industrial area on the outskirts of central Bilbao. The dining scene here is more casual and local-focused, with traditional Basque eateries and bars catering primarily to neighborhood residents rather than tourists. The atmosphere is authentic and community-oriented, with outdoor seating common in good weather.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday12:00–00:00 Friday12:00–00:30 Saturday12:00–00:30 Sunday12:00–19:00

Available: Reservations, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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