25 November 2024 | GASTRONOMY
San Sebastian is a food lover’s paradise, renowned for its world-class gastronomy and vibrant culinary scene. Whether you call them "tapas" or "pintxos," the small, flavorful bites served in the city’s charming bars are an essential experience for any visitor. If you’re wondering where to eat in San Sebastian, the Old Town (Parte Vieja) is the perfect place to start. Here, we’ll guide you through some of the best tapas bars in San Sebastian, where tradition meets creativity, all within walking distance from the luxurious Lasala Plaza Hotel.
The Parte Vieja of Donostia is known not only for its historical charm but also for its unmatched culinary offerings. Here’s a selection of five legendary bars that you cannot miss: Paco Bueno, Bar Martínez, Bar Sport, Txepetxa, and Bar Néstor. Each of these spots embodies the passion for great food and the welcoming atmosphere that define the best tapas bars in San Sebastian.
Paco Bueno is a bar with soul. Founded decades ago by a former professional boxer, its interior is decorated with photos and memorabilia telling the story of both its owner and San Sebastian itself.
The true highlight here, however, is the pintxos. Their gambas a la gabardina (battered prawns) are a must-try—crispy, golden, and packed with flavor. The authentic, family-friendly atmosphere makes it one of the most welcoming places to eat in San Sebastian’s Old Town.
→ Calle Mayor, 6, San Sebastian
Located on the iconic Calle 31 de Agosto, Bar Martínez is a staple among the best tapas bars in San Sebastian. Its bar is always lined with a tempting selection of pintxos, offering something for everyone.
A must-try here is the gilda, a skewer of anchovy, pickled pepper, and olive, as well as their hake roe in vinaigrette. The bonito-stuffed piquillo peppers and Spanish omelet are also excellent representations of Basque cuisine at its best.
→ Calle 31 de Agosto, 13, San Sebastian
Right in the heart of the Parte Vieja, Bar Sport is a true emblem of top-quality tapas. Despite its simple name, its menu is anything but ordinary. Combining fresh local ingredients with modern techniques, their pintxos are consistently delicious.
Must-try bites include their Iberian ham croquettes, baked spider crab, and seared foie gras. Its laid-back ambiance and central location make it one of the best places to enjoy pintxos in San Sebastian’s Old Town.
→ Calle Fermin Calbeton, 10, San Sebastian
When talking about Bar Txepetxa, you’re talking about anchovies. This small yet iconic Old Town bar has turned anchovy-based pintxos into an art form, using only the highest-quality fish.
Some of their most famous creations include anchovies with crab cream, anchovies with blueberry jam, and anchovies with foie gras. The walls, adorned with photos of famous visitors, add to the charm of this must-visit spot.
→ Calle Pescadería, 5, San Sebastian
For meat lovers, Bar Néstor is a temple of grilled perfection. This tiny spot on Calle Pescadería is famous for its txuleta (Basque-style aged steak), widely considered the best in town.
Beyond steak, Bar Néstor is known for two other specialties: its Spanish omelet, prepared only twice a day and selling out within minutes, and its tomato salad, a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the meat.
→ Calle Pescadería, 11, San Sebastian
After indulging in the best pintxos in San Sebastian, you’ll want a luxurious and comfortable place to unwind. Lasala Plaza Hotel, located right by the Old Town and the picturesque fishing port, offers elegant rooms with breathtaking views of La Concha Bay. With a focus on refined hospitality and Basque tradition, it’s one of the top-rated luxury hotels in San Sebastian.
▸ Prime location near the best tapas bars in San Sebastian
▸ Sophisticated, elegant rooms with sea views
▸ Exclusive dining experiences with top-quality Basque cuisine
▸ A rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city and bay
San Sebastian’s Old Town is the heart of its vibrant culinary culture. Whether you’re looking for the best tapas bars in San Sebastian, classic pintxos, or innovative cuisine, these five spots will give you an unforgettable taste of the Basque Country. And after a day of indulgence, retreat to Lasala Plaza Hotel, where luxury and tradition meet in perfect harmony.
Ready to explore the flavors of San Sebastian? Book your stay at Lasala Plaza Hotel and make your visit truly exceptional.
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