Zarate

Cuisine

fish, regional, spanish

Michelin

1

Price

€€€

Website

https://zarate.restaurant/

Description

The history of Zarate is that of a man passionate about fishing and the sea, to the point where his cooking is described as “tidal-inspired cuisine”. Chef Sergio Ortiz de Zarate started his career in Lekeitio (Vizcaya), where he began to make a name for himself thanks to his superb baked wild fish. His traditional cooking gained further recognition following his move to Bilbao and a widening of his repertoire that involved more modern dishes and a focus on locally sourced ingredients. The strong guiding principles of the restaurant are based around his exceptional knowledge of fish – Cantabria

Review score

4.1

Review count

100

Review summary

Zarate in Bilbao specializes in Spanish and Basque seafood, holding an average rating of 4.1/5. Food quality is a major strength, with dishes like lobster rice, roasted turbot, and cod in pil-pil sauce receiving high praise. However, some reviews note inconsistent flavors or temperatures. Service is generally professional, offering unique chef's table experiences, though occasional criticism targets limited chef interaction. The ambiance is elegant and cozy. Value perceptions vary; while many find the quality justified, others feel it falls short of Michelin star expectations.

Best for

Suitable for diners seeking authentic Basque seafood who can tolerate minor service inconsistencies.

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