In the 19th Century, Basque immigrants, from an area along the Spanish-French border, came to Nevada to mine for gold, and later to herd sheep in the northern part of the state. The warm, vibrant culture of these people became an integral part of Nevada’s personality. There are many places today where you can enjoy Basque food, drink, and culture, but this Basque Nevada restaurant in Reno is something special. It may also be one of the best restaurants in Nevada.

Louis’ Basque Corner was opened in 1967 by Louis and Lorraine Erreguible in honor of their own Basque heritage. Louis’ experience as a chef combined with his love of Basque cuisine shows that this place has become a Reno tradition.
Nick Harp/Google Local
The location was originally the Lincoln Hotel, built in 1906, and was renovated to create the restaurant.
Amy Smee/Google Local
Early Basque hotels in the state were essentially boarding houses for immigrant Basque workers, generally located over bars and restaurants. The men would dine communally in the evenings, a tradition that is kept alive at Louis’ Basque Corner.
With recipes and communal dining rooted deeply in Basque culture, the restaurant offers something special, a delicious home-style meal and a chance to step back and experience a significant part of Nevada’s history.
K L/Google Local
The upper floor of the building used to be boarding rooms for Basque workers. It was renovated and is now a banquet dining room for private parties.
Picon Punch, the signature drink at Louis’, is made with a bitter orange liquor and is also known as the “Basque Cocktail.” The spirit, called Amer Picon, was invented by a Frenchman in 1837 and was made into a punch by the Basques who came to stay and work in Nevada.
Chris Hess/Google Local
Although Picon Punch is a local favorite, the bar also makes several other Signature drinks, including Kalimotxo, Winnemucca Coffee, and Basque Beer.
Sonny Amendola/Google Local
The menu also features a variety of red and white wines including three Spanish Whites, as well as a house white and house red.

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Meals are served in the traditional Basque family style. Guests choose their entree (or no entree) and receive a full meal including soup, bread, Basque beans, salad, French fries, first course, and a glass of wine.
Louis’ Basque Corner
Traditional dinners include authentic Basque dishes like shrimp and tongue Basquaise, tripe, and oxtails.
Andrea Andrea3000/Google Local
Authentic Basque baked beans are a traditional staple of every meal and are served in a little cauldron for everyone to fill their own bowl.
Bruce Gamino/Google Local
New York and sirloin steaks, as well as traditional lamb chops and fresh fish, are available as entrees.
Bri Takem/Google Local
History and culture characterize every part of the restaurant, from the servers’ authentic Basque costumes to the black-and-white historical photos and memorabilia throughout.
Thomas Couch/Google Local
Louis’ Basque Corner claims the title of “Reno’s most unique dining experience,” and we agree. This is one very memorable meal and, perhaps, one of the best places to eat in Nevada.
Mitchell Greene/Google Local
If you've never dined at any Basque restaurants in the past, do yourself a favor and visit Louis’ Basque Corner.

Have you been to Louis’ Basque Corner, a unique Nevada restaurant? Would you consider it to be one of the best restaurants in Nevada? Let us know!

If you are a fan of Basque food and family-style dining, we would love to hear about your favorite Basque restaurant and dishes! Find all the information you need about Louis’ on the Louis’ Basque Corner website, and stay up-to-date by following Louis’ Basque Corner’s Facebook page. In addition to Basque cuisine, check out these other foods Nevada locals always miss when they move.

9 Foods Every Nevadan Craves When They Leave Nevada

If you want to explore more of the food scene in Nevada, head to Las Vegas and take the Arts District Sightseeing and Foodie Tour. This guided Viator experience will take you on a walking tour through the Las Vegas Arts District where you’ll learn about the area and sample delicious food from local restaurants.

 

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