Tucked beneath the arcades of Bilbao's historic Plaza Nueva, Restaurante Víctor Montes occupies a building steeped in gastronomic heritage, having evolved from a celebrated 19th-century grocery store into one of the city's most iconic dining destinations. The space still carries echoes of its origins, with a refined dining room surrounded by an impressive collection of fine wines, whiskies and cognacs, offering a sense of history alongside every meal.

The kitchen here strikes a thoughtful balance between time-honoured Basque recipes and more contemporary culinary techniques, using top-quality local produce sourced from the Cantabrian coast and the surrounding countryside. Guests can choose between a seated experience in the elegant dining room, a spot at the renowned pintxos bar—one of the most decorated in the Basque Country—or a table on the terrace overlooking the lively Plaza Nueva, perfect for people-watching in the heart of the old town.

With a menu that spans cold and hot starters, fresh seafood, quality local meats and artisanal desserts, plus a wine cellar prized for its vintage selections, Víctor Montes has long been a meeting point for locals and visiting dignitaries alike. Its storied past—including hosting the signing of the Guggenheim Bilbao project—adds an extra layer of intrigue to a meal here, making it a compelling stop for anyone exploring the city's culinary and cultural landmarks.