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El Viejo RobleB+Worth Trying

Name: El Viejo Roble
Address: Done Petri Plaza, 2, Deusto, 48014 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain, Bilbao, Spain
Rating: 4.6

Done Petri Plaza, 2, Deusto, 48014 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain · Hamburger restaurant, Bar, Espresso bar · 4.6/5 Google (365 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Casual Deusto spot for burgers, sandwiches, and tapas with friendly service and fair prices; expect occasional waits at peak times.

Why it gets a B+ for overall quality

El Viejo Roble delivers dependable casual dining with solid food quality anchored by well-executed burgers, croquettes, and nachos that earn repeated praise. Friendly, attentive service from owner-operators Pedro and Elena creates genuine warmth, and fair pricing makes it competitive with neighborhood favorites. However, inconsistent execution—occasional burnt buns and cold items—and a modest plaza-side setting prevent it from reaching higher territory; it's a reliable local spot rather than a destination.

Restaurant Summary

Set on a lively Deusto plaza, this casual spot hums from breakfast to late-night bites with friendly, owner-led service. Diners talk about juicy smash burgers, croquettes, and nachos, and one summed it up: "Good food, fair prices, and a place I will return to." Expect a relaxed bar-cafe vibe with a small terrace. The cooking leans classic comfort over flash, with well-priced burgers, sandwiches, and combo plates. There are fun local touches like Idiazabal and piparras on the Deusto burger, but the overall feel is straightforward and satisfying rather than experimental. It suits casual dinners, quick lunches, and unhurried breakfasts where the basics are done right. Families are welcome, and there is a real kids menu with nuggets or croquettes plus fries. Many items are kid-appealing: hot dogs, simple sandwiches, and mild burgers. Vegetarian choices are limited mostly to salads, cheese boards, fries, and desserts, so plan accordingly for mixed-diet groups.

At a Glance

Friendly owner presence and welcoming service
Solid burgers, croquettes, and nachos praised repeatedly
Good value for a casual plaza location
Waits at peak times; occasional cold or burnt buns reported
Limited vegetarian depth beyond basics

What Sets It Apart

plaza_terrace_setting
owner_led_hospitality
regional_twist_on_burgers

What People Love

Warm, personal treatment from Pedro and team
Smash burger flavor and value
Homemade croquettes and house aioli
Relaxed terrace seating on the square
Consistent fair pricing

Points of Concern

Occasional long waits late evening despite simple orders
A few reports of temperature/char issues on buns and cheese
Vegetarian and vegan options are limited beyond sides and salads
Review patterns are consistent with potential coordination (templated owner replies, enthusiastic language) which may not reflect every diner experience

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost€16-24 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

For vegetarians: Tabla de quesos (€12) plus Patatas dos salsas (€6) and a dessert (€4.5) builds a satisfying meal
Kids: Nuggets y patatas (€7) are a safe bet
Value: Smash Burguer (€9.5) or Americana (€9) with fries

Perfect For

Casual burger night on the plaza
Quick lunch near Deusto University
Laid-back breakfast and coffee
Families wanting simple kid options

Location Insights

Area: Student-friendly Deusto district near university, mix of locals and visitors, casual plazas and neighborhood bars.

Safety: Generally safe and well-trafficked, especially around the plaza; typical urban awareness at night.

Nearby: Plaza setting with nearby cafes, bars, and shops; close to Deusto University and residential streets.

DeustoDeusto has a vibrant yet laid-back dining scene with casual eateries, bars, and cafes catering to both students and residents. The area balances traditional Basque culture with modern urban living, making it popular for informal dining and social gatherings.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday09:00–23:00 Tuesday09:00–23:00 Wednesday09:00–23:00 Thursday09:00–23:00 Friday09:00–00:00 Saturday13:00–23:30 Sunday

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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