Kafe Olatu

Nardiz Tar Benanzio Kaia, 14, 48370 Bermeo, Bizkaia, Spain
$$$ cafe
(191 Reviews)
Price Range €10–20

Welcome to Kafe Olatu, a charming cafe nestled along the picturesque Bay of Biscay in the heart of Bermeo, Bizkaia, Spain. This delightful locale not only captures the essence of Basque hospitality but also serves as a culinary haven for both locals and travelers alike.

As you step inside Kafe Olatu, you're welcomed by the lively ambiance and the warm, rustic decor that evokes the spirit of a family-run establishment. Whether you’re looking for a cozy spot to enjoy a morning coffee or a relaxing afternoon meal, this cafe offers it all.

The menu is a celebration of local flavors, with a particular focus on seafood, as reflected in the rave reviews for their gambas cocidas (boiled shrimp) and kokotxas al pil pil (the delicate flesh from the throats of hake or cod, sautéed in garlic and oil) - dishes that showcase the freshness of the catch from the nearby waters. Imagine biting into the tender, juicy gambas, perfectly seasoned to highlight their natural sweetness, while the kokotxas glisten enticingly, promising an explosion of flavor with each forkful.

The cafe offers more than just great food; it provides a personal experience enriched by its quirky charm and vibrant energy. As noted in one patron’s review, the enthusiasm and boisterous nature of the owner, albeit with a potentially ‘yelling’ edge due to his slight deafness, add a unique touch to your dining experience. Timothy David Kemp emphasized how pleasant the service was, especially for families, making this a wonderful destination for those traveling with children.

Frank Decher’s experience perfectly encapsulates the authenticity of dining at Kafe Olatu. With a friendly nod to respectful awareness of local culture, he shared how a bit of Castellano language could open up even more delightful interactions, making one feel truly "at home." And with a hearty meal which included indulging in a Txakoli (a traditional Basque white wine), fine cafe solo, and a robust copa de brandy, the value for money was evident—just €37,70 for an authentic feast!

If you're in Bermeo, make sure to carve out time to visit Kafe Olatu. The fusion of delicious cuisine, heartwarming hospitality, and that striking Basque charm truly makes this cafe a must-visit gem along the northern coast of Spain. Whether you're a gastronomy enthusiast or simply seeking a welcoming space to unwind, Kafe Olatu promises a memorable experience full of flavor and fondness.

Service options
Outdoor seating
Dine-in
Delivery
Highlights
Great coffee
Great wine list
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible car park
Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Cocktails
Coffee
Quick bite
Small plates
Spirits
Wine
Dining options
Seating
Amenities
Bar on site
Toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Quiet
Trendy
Crowd
Groups
Tourists
Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Good for kids
191 Reviews
Timothy David Kemp

25 Aug 2025

I think the other reviewers were unfair on the "yelling" owner. He was perfectly charming to me and my young children, but he is a little deaf and inevitably speaks loudly. The Gambas cocidas were great and the waitress was charm itself!

Frank Decher

30 Jun 2025

Sí, when you can deal with how folks are here. They always look you in the eyes, no plastic smiles, no formal politeness. When you're accepted (a bit of castellano is helpful), you're in for a treat. I had fresh gambas and kokotxas al pil pil, washed down with Txakoli. Café solo and a big copa de brandy. €37,70. Good QPR. The place is family-run. The owner's daughters run around, his big bellied loud and jolly friends hang around. Stay away if you're too pretentious for a taste of local vida cotidiana. Go to Donostia and join the crowds.

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