Tasting Basque Country One Pintxo at a Time
Written by Teresa Ayala Lyon
As I stroll down the streets of Bilbao, Spain, during my semester abroad, I am surrounded by cafes and bars on every corner. Groups of people gather around a glass display on the bar to try classic Basque food: pintxos.
Pintxos are bite-size snacks originating from the Basque Country in northern Spain. Typically served on baguette slices, pintxos can be served hot or cold and come in a variety of options. Popular pintxos include the iconic Spanish tortilla de patatas or txistorra, a spicy Basque pork sausage. Cold options also include jamon iberico and skewers with olives and anchovies.
One of my favorite pintxos restaurants in Bilbao is El Globo. Recognized as one of the best restaurants in Bilbao, El Globo has served award-winning pintxos. My favorite is their txistorra served between a warm, crusty piece of bread. Another pleasant bite is the fried squid and caramelized onion pintxo.
Pintxos suit perfectly for a salty snack, but the Basque Country sweet offerings are also plenty. On my day trip to Michelin restaurant hub San Sebastián, I tried the classic Basque burnt cheesecake from La Viña. Declared a flavor of the year by The New York Times, the cake has a golden exterior and a creamy center that makes for an irresistible bite. It pairs perfectly with a café con leche, my newly discovered obsession since coming to Spain. I’ve taken a break from the usual flavored iced lattes I order in the United States and have a daily café con leche from my university café.
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