# Mao — Bilbao

Mao is a Sushi restaurant in Abando, Bilbao. 4.2★ from 1,536 Google reviews. Data as of 2026-08-12.

A local might come back if someone else is choosing the restaurant. It's reliable, not remarkable—which is exactly what some evenings need.

## Go if
Book if you're in Abandoibarra already, want sushi without surprises, and don't mind paying €25–40 per head for the postcode.

## At a glance
| Signal | Value |
|---|---|
| Rating | 4.2★ from 1,536 Google reviews |
| Momentum | 7 substantial reviews in the last 90 days |
| Hot Score | 15.9 |
| Chart history | 12 weeks on the Hot List, peak #8 |
| Rating trend | +0.33 over the trailing window |

## What stands out
- **Consistency in the kitchen** — The kitchen doesn't drift. Same preparation every service, which matters when you're ordering raw fish.
- **Efficient service** — In and out in 90 minutes if that's your timeline. No lingering, no theatre, no apologies for the pace.
- **Central location without the tourist markup** — Ibáñez de Bilbao is walkable from everywhere. You're not in the old town paying triple, but you're not in a basement either.

## What people say
> "I recommend the three-flavour duck. The Chinese bread is also highly recommended!" — Camela Pelaez, 2025-10-06

## Good to know
| | |
|---|---|
| Categories | Sushi restaurant, Chinese restaurant, Japanese restaurant |
| Best for | Business lunch, Date night (safe choice), Solo dining at the bar, Weeknight after work, When someone else is choosing |
| Where | Abando, Bilbao — Ibáñez de Bilbao Kalea, 11, Bilbao |

## Common questions
**Do I need to book?**

Yes, especially Friday and Saturday after 8pm. Weekday lunch is walk-in friendly. Call ahead or book online—they'll take both.

**How much does dinner cost?**

€25–40 per head depending on what you order. Nigiri runs €5–8 per piece, maki €6–9 per roll. Wine adds another €4–6 per glass. Compare that to €18–24 for similar quality in Casco Viejo, 10 minutes away.

**Is this the best sushi in Bilbao?**

No. It's the most convenient sushi in Abandoibarra. Better options exist if you're willing to walk toward the old town or book ahead at specialist spots. This is 'good enough' sushi at 'premium location' prices.

## Contact
- **Website**: [www.restaurantemao.com](http://www.restaurantemao.com/)
- **Book a table**: [Book a table](https://www.google.com/maps/reserve/v/dine/c/HkFNhHRs8yc?source=pa&opi=79508299)
- **Menu**: [Menu](https://www.restaurantemao.com/)

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Source: [DondeOndeWhere](https://www.donde-onde-where.com/venue/ChIJzbiahtpPTg0RStJrgSSVr_0) — independent restaurant & bar Hot Lists ranked from real Google reviews with a transparent Hot Score. No editorial picks, no paid placements.