Villa Ilbarritz sur Bidart

07/10/2026: We come to this restaurant as a family once a year. Reading the reviews, we noticed comments expressing a similar feeling. The dishes were excellent, despite a slight reservation about the hanger steak, which could have been a little more tender. The welcome, however, was considerably less pleasant. The owner was cold, unsmiling, and unfriendly, whereas her attitude was different with regular customers. We did, however, receive a smile… when it came time to pay the bill. The restaurant experience isn't just about what's on the plate; the quality of the welcome, the friendliness, and the attention paid to customers are integral to the pleasure of dining out. This will be our last visit.

01/10/2026: It is a restaurant that I started to compose this review in my head once I start tasting the dishes. It was exceptional! I was a bit nervous reading the recent comments. But honestly, the culinary skills of the chefs were exceptional! They made me dance while enjoying them. The signature starter was such a surprise - running eggs with bacon and walnuts. What a combination! They gave generous amount of bread, which I can’t help only finish half of them. The beef main was generous portion. Not to mention the amazing creamy smell easily catch your attention. The layered potatoes were stuffed with cheese and bacon. So flavorful! The beef was carefully cooked - rare and tender! The sauce matched with it really well. I can’t help but close my eyes to enjoy it. During having my main, I have already started thinking of coming back. I am too full to order dessert. The red wine was also so so good! It is such a high quality of fine dining. The interior is gorgeous too! People mentioned about the service. To be fair, it is such a busy restaurant, with lots of locals dining there, and with only one waitress. I feel sorry for her. The chef served the starter and main himself to me, and helped me pay. This is how short of staff they are at the moment. I do think they are trying their best to serve well. But for a restaurant like this size, I think they need at least two more staff. With the price for this quality of food and atmosphere, I am more than happy to give them a five star!