The 20 Best Restaurants in San Sebastian, Basque Country

Akelare | Pedro Subijana is a Michelin three-star restaurant overlooking the ocean, set in a striking contemporary building with panoramic dining rooms and terraces. The kitchen presents refined, modern Spanish gastronomy through elaborate tasting menus, marked by precise technique and creative presentation. Attentive, polished service and the possibility to glimpse the busy kitchen complete the high-level gastronomic experience.

El Bistro Ondarreta offers refined Spanish and Mediterranean-inspired cooking, with carefully prepared dishes such as slow-cooked lamb tajine, fresh hake, and seasonal risotto. A concise menu is complemented by daily specials and local wines. The simple, modern setting keeps the focus on the kitchen’s craftsmanship and attentive, professional service.

Artean - Barra Abierta offers an intimate counter-only experience where guests watch the chefs finish each plate. The kitchen focuses on imaginative, flavor-driven dishes, such as steamed buns with Iberico pork and kimchi mayonnaise. A concise wine list complements the menu, while characterful decor and attentive service create a refined yet relaxed atmosphere.

Chutney Gastrobar offers an intimate dining experience centered on inventive vegetarian and vegan cuisine. The team takes time to explain the menu, creating a personal connection and guiding guests through multi-course tastings with carefully chosen wine pairings. The small space, including bar seating, fosters a lively, relaxed atmosphere.

Amelia By Paulo Airaudo is a Michelin two-star establishment offering an inventive fusion of Italian and Japanese influences, with a strong focus on seafood and herbs. Guests dine around an open kitchen, enjoying an interactive counter experience as chefs present and explain each preparation. Refined plating, high-quality ingredients, and a relaxed, contemporary atmosphere define the overall experience.

Txepetxa is a classic Basque pintxos bar in San Sebastián’s old town, known for its anchovy- and sardine-focused specialties. Creative toppings, from peppers and onions to more unexpected pairings, are prepared to order rather than taken from the counter. The compact bar is often busy with both locals and visitors, with quick, courteous service and a selection of regional drinks.

La Perla offers a Basque-inspired dining experience featuring pintxos, seasonal menus, and carefully prepared meat dishes. Guests enjoy a terrace setting with views over La Concha Bay, creating a leisurely coastal atmosphere. Thoughtful wine selections and well-regarded desserts, including a rich chocolate tart, round out the experience, supported by generally efficient, courteous service.

La Rampa is a seafood restaurant by the old town harbor, near the aquarium, known for fresh, simply prepared fish and shellfish. Guests highlight well-cooked grilled sardines, seafood platters, and other daily catch selections, served with bread, salad, or fries. The patio offers a pleasant spot to dine, and the atmosphere is lively as the restaurant fills quickly. Service is generally attentive, contributing to an enjoyable coastal dining experience.

Bells Bar offers inventive pintxos and tapas that blend local flavors with international influences, from refined small plates to elevated comfort dishes. Guests highlight thoughtful combinations, such as artichoke preparations, modern takes on classics, and satisfying desserts. Attentive, personable service and the choice of terrace or bar seating create an inviting, relaxed atmosphere.

Kbzon Haundi offers a creative pintxos-focused menu, featuring dishes like duck carpaccio, scallops, foie, and rib prepared with care. Charcoal-grilled fish and meats stand out for their smoky flavor and precise cooking. The setting is cozy and thoughtfully designed, matched by attentive, professional service that enhances the overall experience.

Jose Mari offers a broad selection of pintxos and hot small plates, from cod omelette with pil-pil sauce to entrecote steak and txangurro rice. Guests can enjoy a bustling bar experience or a cozy upstairs dining room. Welcoming service and some creative chef’s specials add to the appeal of this traditional spot.

Zirtan offers a sit-down dining experience in the old town, focusing on Basque-inspired cooking with quality local ingredients. Guests highlight generous steak dishes, Iberico ham and mushroom plates, and creamy Basque cheesecake. Attentive staff provide thoughtful recommendations and create a welcoming, unhurried atmosphere.

Bar Ibai is a Michelin one-star restaurant offering refined Basque cooking that highlights both humble and luxury ingredients with equal care. Dishes such as crispy pork ears, cod kokotxas, and tender shellfish showcase precise technique, clear flavors, and thoughtful textures. The small dining room offers a welcoming atmosphere, complemented by attentive, knowledgeable service and well-judged wine recommendations.

Lizeaga offers a classic Basque cider house experience built around generous meat and cod dishes. Diners highlight the flavorful grilled chop, salted cod omelette, and house cider with a pleasantly tart profile. Service is organized, attentive, and personable, contributing to an engaging communal-style meal.

Astelena 1997 Restaurante offers modern Spanish cuisine with thoughtfully composed tasting menus highlighting seafood, cod, and slow-cooked meats, finished with classic desserts like French toast with ice cream. The polished decor and well-spaced tables create a comfortable setting where conversation is easy. Attentive, professional service and an option for private dining enhance the overall experience.

Biarritz Bar Restaurante offers Basque-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh seafood and thoughtful seasonal dishes. Guests mention delicately cooked hake, creative salads, and classic rice dishes, along with a popular torrija dessert. The staff provides attentive guidance on local wines, and seating ranges from a lively promenade terrace to a quieter downstairs dining area with views over La Concha beach.