It’s no coincidence that San Sebastián is considered one of the world’s gastronomic meccas. In fact, over the last number of years, Basque cuisine has become a benchmark thanks to the incredible work by renowned chefs such as Martín Berasategui and Juan Mari Arzak, to name but a few. If you’re thinking about visiting this region, you can’t leave without getting to know this side of its charm and richness. To help you, we’ve come up with a list of the best restaurants in San Sebastián.
Top 5 restaurants in San Sebastián
Where to eat in San Sebastián? It’s no wonder people have a hard time choosing in a city with such a top-class gastronomic offer. To make things easier, here’s a rundown of the top must-visit restaurants.
Rekondo
This charming caserío was opened in 1964 by Txomin Rekondo to sell cider. Almost 60 years later, it has made a name for itself as one of the most prestigious restaurants in San Sebastián thanks to its traditional Basque cuisine and exceptional selection of wines. Did you know that its wine cellar is considered to be one of the best in the world.
Rekondo offers a sophisticated and exclusive dining experience. Iñaki Arrieta works his magic with his stunning dishes, with local ingredients and the unmistakable flavour of the embers.
- Costs roughly €110 per person.
Ganbara
If you’re looking for a more casual experience and a taste of the authentic San Sebastián pintxos, Ganbara is an incredible option. Located in the city’s old town and with a rustic and traditional charm, it’s usually bustling with diners looking to try the best of Basque cuisine. It oozes a bustling and party-like vibe. However, due to its popularity, we recommend showing up early or booking in advance.
Ganbara serves a wide range of pintxos, with options ranging from fresh seafood to cold meats, meats and seasonal dishes. If you’re left wanting more, the restaurant offers a selection of local dishes, such as fried langoustines, grilled fish and mouth-watering meats.
- Costs roughly €45 per person.
If you’re looking for a more casual experience and a taste of the authentic San Sebastián pintxos, Ganbara is an incredible option. Located in the city’s old town and with a rustic and traditional charm, it’s usually bustling with diners looking to try the best of Basque cuisine. It oozes a bustling and party-like vibe. However, due to its popularity, we recommend showing up early or booking in advance.
Ganbara serves a wide range of pintxos, with options ranging from fresh seafood to cold meats, meats and seasonal dishes. If you’re left wanting more, the restaurant offers a selection of local dishes, such as fried langoustines, grilled fish and mouth-watering meats.
- Costs roughly €45 per person.
Akelarre
Akelarre oozes Pedro Subijana’s experience and expertise in the kitchen. This renowned restaurant in San Sebastián is one of the city’s most emblematic. It has 3 Michelin stars, highlighting its culinary excellence and level of service.
It opened its doors in 1970 and, ever since, it has been renowned for its avant-garde approach to Basque cuisine and its innovative and creative dishes. Although its menu changes from one season to another and depends on the ingredients available, some of Akelarre’s iconic dishes include creations such as sea bass with green pepper, gin and tonic on the plate and lamb pojarski.
Not only will you stimulate your palate at Akelarre, but your eyes too thanks to the stunning panoramic views of the Cantabrian Sea and the surrounding landscape. Without a shadow of doubt, you’re in for a sophisticated, elegant and unforgettable dining experience.
- The tasting menu costs €295 per person (not including drinks).
Atari
Atari is an amazing place to eat in San Sebastián because you get the chance to try the traditional pintxos in a modern and relaxed setting. This restaurant is in the old quarter, a strategic location where you can make the most of San Sebastian’s gastronomy while getting to know the city.
Get blown away by their signature dishes where tradition and avant-garde come together to take your senses on a culinary ride. Cod croquettes, grilled hake with leeks, low-temperature bacon with hummus or stewed cheeks are some of the delicacies served at Atari.
- The average price per person is around €20 (each pintxo costs between €3 and €6).
Atari is an amazing place to eat in San Sebastián because you get the chance to try the traditional pintxos in a modern and relaxed setting. This restaurant is in the old quarter, a strategic location where you can make the most of San Sebastian’s gastronomy while getting to know the city.
Get blown away by their signature dishes where tradition and avant-garde come together to take your senses on a culinary ride. Cod croquettes, grilled hake with leeks, low-temperature bacon with hummus or stewed cheeks are some of the delicacies served at Atari.
- The average price per person is around €20 (each pintxo costs between €3 and €6).
Bar Txepetxa
Bar hopping is one of the best ways to discover the different culinary creations in San Sebastián. Bar Txepetxa is an excellent place to get things off to a great start.
Opened in 1925, this is an institution in Donostia. In fact, over the last 100 years it has won any number of awards. Did you know that its famous anchovy pintxos are part of the city’s cultural heritage?
- Each pintxo costs between €2 and €4.
Check out the best restaurants in San Sebastián with Always Easy
San Sebastian’s restaurants are one of the city’s greatest attractions, but the city has much more up its sleeve. If you’re looking for a getaway, this is an excellent holiday destination. And, to round things off, check out the Always Easy accommodation offer.
