Food is an integral part of life in Portugalete, and visitors are treated to a culinary experience rich in Basque flavors. The city’s cuisine is characterized by the use of fresh, local ingredients, particularly seafood from the nearby Bay of Biscay. Popular dishes include grilled fish such as merluza a la parrilla (grilled hake) and bacalao a la vizcaína (cod in a red pepper sauce). Traditional pintxos, small bites typically served in bars, are also a major culinary highlight.
One of the city’s specialties is marmitako, a hearty fisherman’s stew made with tuna, potatoes, onions, and peppers. It’s a dish with humble origins but is now widely celebrated for its robust flavors. Visitors should also try txakoli, the region’s famous white wine, which pairs perfectly with seafood dishes. Local bakeries offer sweet treats like pantxineta, a pastry filled with custard and almonds.
Restaurants like La Bodega and Café Bar Joserra are popular with both locals and tourists for their authentic Basque cuisine and welcoming atmospheres. Portugalete’s vibrant food scene makes it a culinary destination in its own right.