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Txikito
Master Critic Review
Txikito
8.0
A Basque small-plates room that’s compact but serious about flavor, with salting, smoke, and olive-oil richness tuned for sharing over a working lunch. It’s less formal than a steakhouse power spot, but the cooking is precise enough to impress without feeling showy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pulpo carpaccio, Gildas with anchovy and piparra, Quisquillos (tiny shrimp with aioli)
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Basque tapas with chef-level technique in an easygoing room.
Who should go: Teams who like to share plates while talking shop.
When to visit: Longer lunch blocks when you can graze.
What to order: Pulpo carpaccio, gildas, quisquillos.
Insider tip: Order in waves—first cold bites, then hot plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available but can be difficult to find during peak hours. There is a parking garage nearby for convenience.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but aim for a slightly dressier look for a polished vibe.
Noise level: Moderate. It's lively but still easy to have a conversation, even with a full table.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation
Weekday lunch: No wait typically
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - vegetarian-friendly options available, including some small-plates dishes.
Vegan options: Limited - about 2-3 vegan options depending on the menu rotation.
Gluten-free options: Yes - gluten-free options with separate prep areas to avoid cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, it’s a great spot for a first date. The atmosphere is relaxed and trendy, offering a chance for conversation without feeling too stiff. The sharing plates encourage interaction, and the food is flavorful and impressive without being too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? It’s recommended to make a reservation, especially during lunch or weekends, as it can get busy. Without one, expect a wait, particularly during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? While the setting is more suited to adult groups and business lunches, children are welcome. However, the menu and atmosphere are more geared toward adults, so it’s better for older kids who can appreciate the small-plates style.
Best For
Better for: Txikito excels at offering a unique Basque small-plates experience with an emphasis on bold flavors, making it perfect for a business lunch where impressing clients is key. The trendy yet laid-back atmosphere is perfect for groups wanting to discuss over food without the formality of a traditional steakhouse.
Skip if: If you're looking for a quieter, more intimate atmosphere or a heavier, traditional meal, you might want to try alternatives like a classic steakhouse or a more subdued neighborhood bistro.