If there is something that makes San Sebastián a gastronomic paradise, it is the Pintxos . Small works of art served on bread or in mini portions, perfect for tapas, socializing and Live the city like a local.
Today we bring you an updated route through the best pintxos bars scattered throughout the city's tastiest neighborhoods. Get ready to work up an appetite!
What is a pintxo and why is it so special?
Unlike the typical tapa, the pintxo (or “pincho”) It is more elaborate and is usually served at the bar, often with a toothpick. In San Sebastián it is not just about eating, but about take a route: go from bar to bar, trying one or two pintxos in each place, accompanied by txakoli, cider or zurito.
Pintxos route by neighborhood
1. Old Town: The heart of the San Sebastian pintxo scene
Zone:Vieille ville
Vibes: Tradition, quality, local atmosphere
Top must-see bars:
- Gandarias :
- Don't leave without trying the sirloin with foie: tender, juicy and with just the right amount of intensity.
- Pair it with a glass of red wine from Rioja Alavesa to round out the experience.
- Le Cuchara de San Telmo :
- ask for the confit suckling pig: crispy on the outside, gooey on the inside.
- If you like to innovate, try its grilled octopus with potato cream: pure fusion.
- Borda Berri :
- Le beef cheek in red wine It's a safe bet: it dissolves on its own.
- Also try their Idiazabal cheese risotto: It doesn't have rice, but it's pure creaminess!
- Txepetxa :
- Essential the Anchovy pintxo with crab cream: a classic that never fails.
- For the more curious, that of anchovy with cranberry jam surprises and convinces.
Conseil local : Go early (13:00-14:00 PM or 19:30-20:30 PM) if you don't want to fight for space at the bar.
2. Gros: The modern and surfer neighborhood
Zone: East of the city, next to Zurriola beach
Vibes: Young, alternative, gastro-cool
Bars you must try:
- Bar Bergara :
- ask for the Txalupa : a mushroom pintxo with seafood cream and shrimp that is a knockout.
- Son Lobster on puff pastry It is another must-have for demanding palates.
- Zabaleta :
- Do not miss your freshly made cod omelette: juicy and tasty.
- Accompany it with a a shot of natural cider, well poured.
- Ramuntxo Berri :
- Le homemade ham croquettes They are pure comfort in every bite.
- share one portion of grilled squid with mild aioli: simple but powerful.
3. Center & Cathedral Area
Zone: Between the Old Town and Amara
Vibes: Quieter, ideal for a break between shops
Recommended stops:
- Karrika Tavern:
- Try your Iberian pork pintxo with caramelized apple: sweet and salty in balance.
- Ideal for the season: Mushroom pintxo with truffled egg yolk.
- Txirrita Sagardotegia :
- Le pintxo of glazed pork cheek with vermouth It is as tasty as it is original.
- ask for a homemade vermouth To start with: aromatic and with a spicy touch.
- Antonio's Bar:
- Son Foie toast with apple and Pedro Ximénez reduction It is pure luxury in miniature.
- Don't leave without trying the house Russian salad, classic but with a special touch.
What to drink with your pintxos?
- txakoli – White wine with light acidity, ideal for seafood and fish.
- Basque cider – Natural, dry and refreshing.
- Sweetie – Mini caña, perfect to accompany without going overboard.
- Red wine from Rioja Alavesa – Balanced and with character.
How much does a pintxos tour cost?
- Classic pintxo: € 2,50 - € 3,50
- Hot/gourmet pintxo: € 3,50 - € 5,00
- Drink (zurito, txakoli, cider): € 1,50 - € 3,00
A reasonable budget for a 5-bar route can be around 20-30 € per person.
Tips for a 100% local experience
- Order at the bar and if there's a lot of fuss, be clear about what you want.
- Combine cold + hot pintxo in each bar for variety.
- Don't have long after-dinner conversations. Eat, enjoy, and move on to the next bar.
- Do the route on foot. This is how it's done in Donosti.
Your perfect base for a pintxos tour
Dans Vacances SanSe We offer tourist accommodation in the best areas to enjoy a worry-free pintxos tour. At the foot of the old town, near Gros, or overlooking La Concha: we have the ideal accommodation for you. Eat, drink and rest like a true San Sebastian native..
