Familiar to many, the puerta cerrada or closed door culinary movement was practically invented in Buenos Aires. One could argue the concept of opening ones home to paying diners was pioneered …

Casa Coupage Restaurant, Buenos Aires: How the mighty have fallen

Aramburu Restaurant, Buenos Aires: Hitting the right culinary notes
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Etxanobe Restaurant, Bilbao: Delivers a novel, memorable experience
A foodie visit to Bilbao often means a case of having too many restaurant options to consider, with not enough time to experience everything on offer. With a limited number of evenings on our weekend getaway, and an array of Michelin star restaurants of noteworthy quality, the choice of where to dine really wasn’t a job for the faint hearted. There are many exceptional experiences to indulge the palette of even the most fussiest of gourmands, and our choice – Etxanobe, is right up there with them.
As were celebrating a special occasion (the other Mr. Highlife’s birthday), I had high hopes for an evening of good food and company, and we were certainly looked after well by the warm and charming Etxanobe staff. Setting-wise the decor was whimsical and of a very Basque taste, and the entire dining room swiftly filled up shortly after our arrival.
We opted for the tasting menu with wine pairing, which did not disappoint. This was a meal that included dish after dish of delectable delights including scampi with fresh pasta, hake in mussel and saffron jus, grilled scallop with mussel and vegetable ragout, a txangurro of prawn in bisque and even a dessert of white chocolate with orange cream on liquid nitrogen served at the table.
The Verdict
Etxanobe was a memorable evening of interesting, novel food concepts that I would highly recommend you try when in Bilbao. An attentive sommelier, efficient service and the highlight of the evening – a table-side visit by chef Fernando Canales added to the overall experience. Not be missed.
Restaurant – 8/10
Experience – 9/10








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