Calle Daoiz y Velarde and the network of streets around it form the core of Santander's pintxos district — a dense cluster of bars where the counter is lined with small bites and the serious business of the evening is deciding which one to enter next. The tradition here is similar to San Sebastián's but less performative: the pintxos are good, the prices are fair, and the atmosphere is local rather than touristy.
The best approach is to arrive at around 8pm, order a small glass of the local white wine (Albariño or Verdejo are the usual choices, though Cantabria also produces a little txakoli) and a pintxo or two, then move on. Rabas — rings of fried squid — are the non-negotiable order in most bars. The street is also lively for the evening paseo even if you are just looking for a drink, and several of the bars have tables on the pavement when the weather allows.