TOP 5 best bars in Bayonne

With a considerable number of bars and cafes, the cultural capital of the Basque Country is a city where it is good to go out and party. The charming terraces that occupy the historic heart of Bayonne and the banks of the Nive deserve attention in all seasons.

To go out with friends, here is a list of essential places to discover absolutely during your stay. We looked for them, found them and tested them for you! Cocktail bar, wine bar, homemade tapas... You will love our selection of good places to meet at the cocktail hour. In Bayonne, it's a real art of living!

ChaiRamina, Basque bar of character!

In the heart of old Bayonne, the beautiful Rue Poissonnerie owes its celebrity to the beautiful half-timbered houses that dot it. ChaiRamina, at number 11 on the street, all the ingredients are there to make your evening a true moment of entertainment for 37 years. The step of the door crossed, a feeling of "like home" invades you. Merry locals of all generations combined, a rustic and retro, the warm smile of Christine, the boss - or Kiki for intimate - and cocktails to fall. For my part, I succumb to Zulu , the homemade punch with rum, cinnamon and vanilla. An explosion of flavors! (to consume with moderation)

Like any self-respecting sports bar, ChaiRamina broadcasts all the rugby matches of the season to the delight of the fans. Match days, you will certainly notice the great fervor of the premises for the main Basque rugby clubs. The customer is comfortable, it feels!

The Xurasko, bistro and tapas bar

How not to fall in love with the Xurasko (pronounced Churasko ), when we discover this bistro with a special atmosphere! Near Les Halles, the Xurasko is a real place of rendezvous Bayonne. Perfectly embodying the festive and relaxed spirit of the city, you have a restaurant area, but especially a large outdoor terrace often crowded, animated by the comings and goings of passers-by throughout the year .

Held by Christian for more than 20 years, you will enjoy the excellence of his service and that of his team, whatever the time of the day. On his advice, my taste buds succumb to the delicious raspberry and strawberry Mojito (in season). The place is obviously suitable for the tasting of Basque beers (the Superb of Anglet or the Akerbeltz for example). From 19h, we come here to satisfy his palate with a selection of homemade tapas that tantalize the senses: donuts of chipirons, beef tataki, spring rolls of duck, mini burgers ...

LeXurasko is the promise of a good evening with friends in Bayonne!

The Kubata, explosive cocktails and breathtaking views!

We cross the Nive Pannecau Bridge to mingle with the excitement that reigns on the dock Augustin Chaho. To sip " one of the best mojitos of Bayonne " and nibble some good homemade tapas, head for Kubata, which has forged a pretty reputation! Held by the charismatic Willo for 7 years now, this landmark known to regulars of the neighborhood and visitors in search of authenticity offers no less than 15 different Gin Tonic, 24 old rum s and about forty cocktails on his card! I let myself be tempted by the classic Mojito to confirm (or deny) the rumors. And indeed, the know-how of Willo and his team is indisputable!

The exceptional location of the Kubata on the banks of the Nive allows us to fully appreciate the architectural style of Bayonne, the rows of sumptuous houses with exposed timber-framed facades painted in brown red, but also in green, blue or gray. The sunset is particularly remarkable from the terrace, when the last rays disappear behind the towers of the Cathedral and are reflected in the Nive.

With a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, tasty cocktails and good cheese boards and charcuteries, the Kubata is definitely worth the detour!

Dame Jeanne, Grapes and Nibbles!

A plate of Basque cheeses and charcuterie and a good bottle of wine ... and if that was happiness? Between local delicacies and frank camaraderie, here is a wine bar bursting with conviviality, nested Rue Port de Castets, two strides from the Cathedral.

To water the beautiful map of beautiful boards to share ( Organic Sheep Farm Larronda, Bayonne ham 3 Farms, Board "everything is good in the pig" ), we can count on the excellent references of wines, selected by Marie Hours the boss. This vintner's daughter, a great explorer and wine lover embarks us on a world tour of good wines. " I love to discover areas, varietals and share my favorites with the customers, " she says.

Food and wine pairings are deliciously gourmet, perfectly mastered. No wonder this charming wine bar is always full!

The Karafe, wine bar, champagne and pintxos

At 25 Quai Admiral Jauréguiberry, on the banks of the Nive, the soft rattling of glasses mingles with laughter and lively conversation. No doubt, you are good at the Karafe. With such a name, it is the place to have a drink, or two, or three ... Coming from all regions, the wines and champagnes listed in this bar are exceptional and carefully selected. The concept ? A taste escape within the reach of all, whether you are amateur or confirmed, occasional wine drinker or total novice!

By providing all the details on the map (varietal, terroir, climate of the vineyard), the approach of the Karafe aims to put the visitor in contribution in the choice of the wines and make the oenology lingo accessible! At Karafe, you always have something to learn about the precious elixir! Moreover, Claire and Igor, the sommeliers offer you tastings and courses of sommellerie to refine your nose, your taste buds and your knowledge ( ^1st and 3rd Wednesday of the month on reservation)

As for snacking, pintxos (or tapas) are succulent (special mention for crispy prawns, samosas of goat cheese and squid à la plancha). Cheese boards and cold cuts are just as delicious!

The key word of the Karafe? Conviviality !

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Photos and Article by Lesley Williamson for the Basque Country Guide