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Bilbao › Abando › Capricho de Bilbao
Capricho de BilbaoB+Worth Trying
C. María Díaz de Haro, 41, Abando, 48010 Bilbao, Biscay, Spain
· Restaurant, Mediterranean restaurant, Spanish restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (450 reviews)
Reservations
Traditional Basque spot with generous set menus and friendly service; value is strong on menus, but quality and noise can vary at peak times.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Capricho de Bilbao delivers reliable Basque dining with strong food quality anchored by traditional kokotxas and hearty classics, supported by attentive, friendly service. However, inconsistent execution—occasional tough meat and over-sauced dishes—and variable pacing prevent it from reaching higher territory. The excellent value on set menus and warm, bustling atmosphere make it competitive with the area's better neighborhood restaurants, though it lacks the distinction of premier dining destinations.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and bustling, a classic Bilbao dining space where families and business lunches mix. Servers come across as friendly and hands-on, especially when guiding the set menus. One diner summed it up: "Generous plates, lively room, solid value." Noise can spike when large groups roll in. The cooking leans traditional Basque comfort rather than flashy fusion: think kokotxas, bacalao a la Bizkaia, monkfish with squid, croquettes, and a txuleton-focused menu. When the kitchen is on, flavors are hearty and satisfying; on off-days, sauces can dominate or steaks run tough. Best value is in the set menus with dessert and wine. For families, the menu is practical: croquettes, fried items, simple steaks, arroz negro, and hake are approachable. There is no clear kids menu, but portions are shareable and staff are accommodating. Gluten-free needs saw a poor response in one review, so families with allergies should ask clearly before ordering.
At a Glance
- Excellent value on set menus, often including dessert and shared wine
- Traditional Basque dishes with crowd-pleasing favorites
- Noise levels surge with large groups and event days
- Meat quality and saucing can be inconsistent
- Limited gluten-free accommodation reported by a diner
What Sets It Apart
- well-priced set menus with wine
- traditional Basque repertoire
- group-friendly service
What People Love
- Hearty Basque flavors without pretension
- Set menus that feel like a deal
- Friendly, down-to-earth servers
- Seafood highlights like kokotxas and monkfish
Points of Concern
- Noise and strong kitchen aromas at busy times
- Occasional over-saucing and tough steaks reduce consistency
- Service pacing can slow between courses and drinks
- Reported poor handling of gluten-free request; confirm needs in advance
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost€24-39 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Pick Menú del Día (€17.90) for a budget-friendly lunch
- Seafood mains like merluza or bacalao from Menú Especial (€24.00) offer strong value
Perfect For
- Casual family lunches with generous portions
- Group celebrations that want simple, shareable courses
- Visitors seeking classic Basque dishes without Michelin prices
- Weekday business lunches in central Bilbao
Location Insights
Area: Central Abando near Gran Vía; business district with shopping streets and offices; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, busy streets; high foot traffic day and evening.
Nearby: Close to San Mamés area, shops, offices; lively before and after events; mix of residential and commercial.
AbandoAbando is a lively neighborhood with a diverse dining scene ranging from traditional Basque eateries to contemporary restaurants. It attracts a mix of business people, residents, and visitors who enjoy its accessibility and cultural offerings.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday13:00–16:00
Wednesday13:00–16:00
Thursday13:00–16:00
Friday13:00–16:00, 21:00–00:00
Saturday13:00–16:00, 21:00–00:00
Sunday13:30–16:00
Available: Reservations
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