BILBAO - PLAZA NUEVA PINTXO BAR CRAWL On a recent trip to Bilbao, we had a little pintxo bar crawl around the Plaza Nueva. The arcaded Plaza Nueva heaves with locals from early evening on. Try to observe the alcoholic convention of pacing yourself with a txikito (small glass of wine or beer). In Pintxos bars, people always throw paper napkins on the floor, and only shy tourists leave them on plates or surfaces. At weekends, it gets busy around 11.30 am. Our favourite places

RESTAURANT CAMI DE BALÀFIA If you fancy something big and meaty in the evening (sorry, vegetarians, but this is probably not for you!), drive up restaurant Road, officially known as Carretera San Joan de Labritja (it’s the second to last restaurant on the left, on the stretch of road going to the village of San Joan de Labritja from Eivissa (Ibiza Town). If you count down the kilometres of roadside posts, it is 15.4km. You will find Camí de Balàfia, set back off the main road

A Unique Experience in Old Town On our 2025 trip, we visited a bar in Old Town that was a first for us. Bar Kbzon Txiki is a hidden gem that offers a delightful culinary experience. The atmosphere is inviting, and the decor is charming. The bar serves innovative dishes made with familiar ingredients. They seem to use the sous vide method in their excellent cooking, which elevates the flavours. We settled in and ordered a couple of glasses of txakoli, a refreshing, slightly sp

RESTAURANTE REAL BALNEARIO DE SALINAS One Michelin Star This restaurant, which has one Michelin star in the 2017 rating, is situated right at the end of this stunning little surfers’ beach in the seaside town of Salinas on the Asturian coast. The restaurant has been in this town for three generations, since 1916. It was previously situated in the middle of the city before moving to its panoramic location at the end of the beach. The restaurant has around 120 covers spread

If you’re dreaming of sun-soaked beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages, the Balearic Islands should be at the top of your list. But here’s the thing: these islands are more than just postcard-perfect views. They’re a treasure trove of culture, history, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. Lucky for you, I’ve teamed up with Renoir’s Spanish Guides to bring you the ultimate insider’s look at Balearic Islands adventures. Ready to dive in? Let’s go! Why the Bale

EL BIGOTES Known as "The Fish Shack at Cala Mastella" or El Bigotes (The Moustache), this refers to the proprietor's whiskers!) El Bigotes still sits at his table for lunch whilst devouring a flagon of red wine. Unfortunately, he is 97 years old and does not come to the restaurant much anymore. (update 2025, we believe, although we can't confirm, that El Bigote passed away in 202 RIP). There are two sittings, noon for fried fish (€25pp) or 2 pm for Bullit de Peix (€34pp). F

CAFÉ BAR FLOTANTE The mythical Bar Flotante (floating bar) is set on the shore of the stunning Platja de Talamanca, just outside Eivissa (Ibiza Town).  Along with its neighbour, Hostal Talamanca, it has been here since the 1960s. Serving locals and tourists alike. You will find nothing fancy here, nor do you need it. The service isn't great or fast, but if you're on vacation and not in a rush, you can enjoy the ambience for as long as you like. The food is basic but decent, w

If you’re anything like me, the idea of diving into a new culinary world is as thrilling as booking a spontaneous trip. And when it comes to food adventures, few places rival the Basque Country. Nestled between Spain and France, this region is a treasure trove of unique flavours and dishes that will make your taste buds dance. Today, I’m taking you on a mouth-watering journey through some of the most iconic and lesser-known delights of Basque Country cuisine. Ready to feast y

SABOR One Michelin star Sabor, founded by Nieves Barragan and José Etura, is just off Regent Street in the little foodie enclave of Heddon Street. Sabor means flavour in Spanish. The restaurant has three distinct areas: the bar and counter on the ground floor, and El Asador on the first floor. The first two are walk-in only, and at El Asador, you need to book. Sabor was awarded One Michelin Star in 2018. We arrived at 7 pm on a Saturday and, after a short wait, were given

RESTAURANTE LA ESCOLLERA La Escollera has been in Puerto de Estepona since 1940. The long-standing harbour-side restaurant, with a large terrace, is one of the best places to enjoy stunning, fresh seafood in Estepona. The restaurant is old school and not fancy. There is an extensive menu featuring freshly caught, local fish, right from the fish market. Fresh fish arrives from the sea in the morning, and you can enjoy it at your table for lunch or dinner within hours. You will