San Sebastián, or Donostia as the locals call it, is a city where culinary traditions hold as much weight as its stunning beaches and vibrant cultural scene. The old town, with its narrow streets and lively atmosphere, is a paradise for food lovers, especially those eager to sample the famed pintxos—Basquestyle tapas that are as much a work of art as they are a snack. Each bar competes to offer the most creative and flavorful pintxos, making a stroll through the old town a culinary adventure. Start your pintxo crawl at Bar Nestor, a small, unassuming place that has become legendary for its tortilla de patatas (Spanish omelet) and chuletón (Tbone steak). The tortilla, with its perfect balance of egg and potato, is served fresh twice a day, and theres always a line of locals and tourists waiting to grab a slice. The chuletón, cooked to perfection, is a musttry for meat lovers. Just a few steps away, La Cuchara de San Telmo is a favorite among those seeking more innovative flavors. The bar is famous for its carrillera de ternera (beef cheek), slowcooked until it melts in your mouth, and its foie a la plancha (grilled foie gras), which is rich, decadent, and perfectly complemented by a glass of local txakoli wine. For seafood lovers, Ganbara is the place to go. Known for its fresh produce, this bar offers an incredible selection of pintxos that highlight the flavors of the sea. The txangurro (spider crab) pintxo is a standout, but dont miss the grilled prawns or the classic gilda, a skewer of anchovies, olives, and pickled peppers that perfectly balances salty, bitter, and spicy flavors. As you wander through the old town, youll notice that each bar has its own specialty, and its worth trying a single pintxo at each one to fully experience the variety. At Casa Vergara, the highlight is the bacalao al pilpil, a traditional Basque cod dish that is both simple and exquisite. The cod is cooked in garlicinfused oil, creating a rich, silky sauce that coats the fish beautifully. No visit to San Sebastián would be complete without a stop at A Fuego Negro, a bar known for its modern, playful take on traditional pintxos. Here, you can try the makcobe with txips, a mini burger made with Kobe beef and served with homemade potato chips. Its a creative spin on a classic dish that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of San Sebastiáns culinary scene—bold, inventive, and always delicious.
San Sebastián’s old town is not just a feast for the palate but a journey through the senses, where each bar offers a unique blend of atmosphere, flavors, and local traditions. In the heart of this culinary labyrinth lies Bar Zeruko, a modern gem that challenges the boundaries of traditional pintxos. Here, you’ll find creations like the La Hoguera, a smoked cod dish served with a personal mini grill, allowing diners to control the intensity of the flavor. This interactive experience is part of what makes Zeruko a mustvisit for food enthusiasts. A short walk away, Bar Txepetxa is a sanctuary for anchovy lovers. Known for its spectacular range of anchovy pintxos, the bar offers everything from classic anchovies with olives to more adventurous combinations like anchovies with blueberry jam or sea urchin cream. Each pintxo is a testament to the bar’s dedication to quality and innovation, turning a humble fish into a gourmet delicacy. No visit to the old town would be complete without stopping by La Viña, famous for its tarta de queso, a cheesecake that has gained legendary status among locals and tourists alike. With its creamy texture and perfectly caramelized crust, this dessert is the perfect way to end a pintxo crawl. While the cheesecake is the star, La Viña also offers a selection of savory pintxos, ensuring there’s something for everyone. For those seeking a more traditional experience, Bar Txuleta offers a rustic charm with its woodpaneled walls and lively atmosphere. The bar’s namesake pintxo, the txuleta, is a succulent piece of grilled steak served on a slice of bread, embodying the simplicity and excellence of Basque cuisine. Pair it with a glass of local rioja wine, and you’ll understand why this bar is a favorite among meat lovers. As you wander the streets of San Sebastián, it’s impossible to ignore the vibrant atmosphere that fills the air. The sounds of laughter and clinking glasses spill out from the bars, inviting you to join the festivities. At Bar Astelehena, you’ll find a more relaxed vibe, perfect for enjoying their famous croquetas de jamón. These creamy ham croquettes are a staple of Spanish tapas, and Astelehena’s version is among the best in the city, with a crispy exterior giving way to a rich, savory filling. San Sebastián is more than just a culinary destination; it’s a celebration of Basque culture and tradition. The old town, with its blend of historic charm and modern innovation, offers a pintxo experience that is both authentic and cuttingedge. Whether you’re a seasoned food lover or a curious traveler, the pintxos of San Sebastián promise a journey of discovery and delight that will linger in your memory long after the last bite.
