When we think of Spain, we normally think of tapas and sangria right? But did you know that Spanish cuisine differs from region to region and that the food in San Sebastian boasts some of the most unique and delicious dishes in all of the country?
Located up north in Spain’s Basque Country, San Sebastian is truly a hidden gem. Not only is this area diverse in its landscape (think lush greenery and cool Atlantic climate), but it’s also linguistically unique, with the Basque language having no known modern relatives. Historically, it has had limited influence from the North African Moorish people who dominated most of the country for over 500 years meaning the religion, culture and food in San Sebastian has developed differently from the rest of Spain.
So how can you experience the best food that San Sebastian has to offer?
Start small with pintxos
The best way to experience the food in San Sebastian is to indulge in txikiteo (pronounced chick-ee-tay-oh) – a budget-friendly, self-guided pub crawl through the centre of the old town. Simply order 1-2 pintxos at each bar, and make sure to pair it with a cup of the classic txakoli wine.
Pintxos (pronounced pin-choss) form the backbone of Basque cuisine. These bite-sized pieces of food aren’t a specific dish – but rather a style. The word pintxo comes from the Spanish verb pinchar, which means to poke or stab, as the bite-sized food comes skewered with a toothpick. The trend started around the 1930s when bars across the city started to create miniature versions of tapas, displaying them along their bars to encourage a more intimate and laid-back experience.
The most popular types of pintxos to look out for are:
- Pintxos Gilda – Considered one of the first pintxos, this skewer made with salt-cured anchovies, olives, and pickled spicy peppers was named after screen star Rita Hayworth’s character in the 1946 movie, Gilda.
- Tortilla de patata – Also known as a Spanish omelette, fried potatoes are placed in a deep dish, covered in egg and then cooked to juicy, salty perfection; served as a fat slice of deliciousness.
- Croquettes – A staple in many bars, croquettes are small cubes of ham cooked in a bechamel-style sauce then coated in breadcrumbs, fried and served on a slice of baguette.
- Pintxo angulas – Not for the squeamish, angulas are a type of miniature eel that are fried in olive oil with garlic and red pepper, served on sliced bread – do not mistake these for mushroom or cheese!
- Chèvre and caramelized onion – Mild, buttery goat’s cheese makes love with a sweet caramelised onion chutney and is served on warmed bread – to die for.
- Bacalao – Salted cod fish is a staple of the Iberian peninsula and is a nod to its seafaring past with links to both Portuguese and Venetian cuisine. Bacalao is often served as a light, salty paste on top of fresh crusty bread.
Wash it down with Txakoli
Txakoli (pronounced cha-ko-lee) is a fresh, dry white wine from the Basque country. Similar to French champagne, its production is protected meaning it can only be produced in this region. Txakoli is slightly fizzy and tart with a low alcohol content. The best part about ordering txakoli isn’t even the taste, but the showmanship, being poured 30cm above your glass to both aerate and promote its effervescent quality.
Some of the best places to try pintxos and txakoli are in the heart of San Sebastian’s old town. Our top picks include:
- Bar Nestor – This legendary restaurant serves arguably the best tortilla in the region. With 2 tortillas made daily (that’s only 24 slices!), you need to line up well in advance to order yourself a slice.
- Bartolo – A local favourite, this pintxos bar is also known for its exceptional steak and pours some of the best txakoli in town.
- Casa Vergara – A straight-up feast for the eyes in the heart of the old town, Casa Vergara is a classic pintxos bar with a wide selection and multiple opportunities for people watching.
- Haizea – Slightly out of tourist territory, this locals-only haunt was once visited by none other than Anthony Bourdain. Its small selection of pintxos and standing-only style gives an authentic experience.
Go big on the beef
For something to sink your teeth into, you can’t go past traditional Txuleta (pronounced choo-letta). Steak may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Spain, but thanks to its climate, San Sebastian boasts some of the most delicious aged grass-fed beef. This T-bone is THICC, sold by the kilo, served rare, and almost always matched with the local cider to wash it down.
Enjoy crisp local cider
Don’t tell the French, but it is often said that Northern Spaniards make the best cider in the world! It’s typically cloudy, slightly tart and not as fizzy as your average cider. A completely natural blend boasting only fermented apples, it too is served from great heights to help create the foam on top and release its aroma.
The best place to enjoy both Txuleta and cider is at a traditional cider house, known as a sagardotegi. Most cider houses are only open during cider season from the end of January through to the end of April, however, several houses still serve up unlimited cider and juicy cuts of beef year-round.
For unmissable steak and cider in San Sebastian, try:
- Bar Nestor – Not only famous for its tortilla, Bar Nestor also boasts some of the juiciest steaks in the city.
- Txuleta – The name says it all, Txuleta specialises in the famous steak and also offers a mini t-bone or txuleta burger for those with commitment issues.
- Txirrita Sagardotegia – Located steps away from the famous La Concha beach, this specialist cider house is central, open year-round and takes walk-ins from Thursday to Sunday.
- Alorrenea – For those who want it all and aren’t afraid to travel, Alorrenea is just outside of the city and is one of the oldest cider houses offering unlimited cider, mouth watering steak, and regional specialties.
Level up with Michelin
Did you know that San Sebastian has one of the highest concentrations of Michelin starred restaurants in the world? One theory as to why is thanks to the gastronomical societies, known as “txokos”. These originated in the late 19th century as exclusive clubs where men gathered to share culinary skills, socialise, and celebrate their Basque heritage. It is these clubs, cooking traditions, and commitment to high-quality local ingredients which led to the food in San Sebastian gaining legendary Michelin status.
San Sebastian currently boasts 10 Michelin starred restaurants. Plus, this city offers much better value for money Michelin meals compared to larger cities such as Barcelona or Madrid, with lunch-tasting menus starting as low as 60 euros. Real foodies with flare, prepare to book ahead for these culinary delights:
- Arzak – Run by Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena, Arzak is a household name in the city and has been awarded 3 stars since 1989.
- Akelaŕe – Chef Pedro Subijana is a master of blending traditional Basque techniques with modern flavours, such as his take on the gin and tonic, available in the form of a tart. Another 3 star restaurant.
- Kokotxa – Located in the heart of Old Town, this one-star restaurant is approachable for people from all walks of life with a big focus on traditional dishes with an international twist.
Finish with something a little sweet
For foodies with a sweet tooth, San Sebastian offers an unmissable regional specialty that has recently taken the world by storm: the Basque cheesecake. Also known as “burnt” cheesecake, it was first created in the 1990s by chef Santiago Rivera at La Vina Café by experimenting in his kitchen, removing the cookie base and increasing the temperature of the oven, leading to an almost burnt exterior. The cake itself has a rich creamy texture and the burnt exterior gives it a distinct caramelised flavour.
There are now a number of places to get your hands on this delicious dessert in town:
- La Vina – The original home of the Basque Cheesecake, this casual café also offers pintxos and wine, a one-stop shop for all food in San Sebastian!
- The Loaf Bakery Boulevard – This bakery is close to Zurriola beach and offers cheesecake (and many other sweets) as takeaway options, so you can grab a slice and go watch the surfers by the shore.
- Otaegui – This traditional pasteleria (pastry shop) is located in the heart of old town and is a feast for the eyes with cookies, tarts, cheesecakes and more on offer.
Want to experience it IRL?
From small budget bites to big eats, Michelin stars and everything in between, the food in San Sebastian is a taste of paradise. Wander the streets and let your nose guide you towards what is sure to be an unforgettable meal
Looking to tempt your taste buds on your next travels? Contiki offers several Spanish trips that will take you through the incredible city of San Sebastian.
- If you want just a taste of Spain without compromising on the rest of Europe, our European Quest trip may just be your perfect fit. With options to start in London and end in either Barcelona, Rome or loop the whole way round, there is a trip for everyone.
- For those that are ready to dive deep into the flavours and culture of the Iberian Peninsula, try our Best of Spain and Portugal or Best of Spain trips that will not only take you through San Sebastian but also Pamplona and Bilbao, two more key cities in the Basque country.
