San Sebastian is every foodie’s dream. It’s the home of pintxos AND the basque cheesecake, which says enough about what you are in for. This guide is your ultimate pintxos tour and it is centered around the Old Town, Parte Vieja – the heart of San Sebastián. This is where the city’s pintxos culture comes alive with narrow cobblestone streets, buzzing bars, and an unbelievable food scene. The number one rule to truly enjoy San Sebastian for all its glory is to remember not to over-order at each pintxos stop, as tempting as it may be. Have one or two and move on to the next place. You’ll thank me for it later.
While you’re here, check out my Ultimate 4‑Day San Sebastián Itinerary.
Borda Berri
What to order: The “kebab”, which is really a melt‑in‑your‑mouth pork rib. Another incredible option is the langoustine ravioli. Just wow.
Disclaimer – the portion is huge. Order one to share!
The atmosphere is crazy, but this adds to the charm of this iconic spot. Known for its inventive Basque cooking and always‑packed atmosphere, Borda Berri serves some of the best hot pintxos in San Sebastián. The unbelievably tender octopus is also a good option for pescatarians.
Bar Sport
What to order: The sea urchin soup is to die for. Have one each. It’s so worth it. Try the foie gras. It is extremely rich though, so make sure to share this one.
Disclaimer – it is one of the most popular spots, if not the most, and for good reason. The food is excellent but you may have to queue. However, this spot doesn’t close for siesta like others, making it a great place for a 3pm pit stop.
This is one of the most iconic spots in San Sebastian. The crab pintxos are also incredible.
Txepetxa
Their entire menu is dedicated to anchovies with the toppings of your dreams. Honestly, you can order anything and it will be excellent. This was one of my favourite spots out of the entire trip (it’s a tough call given the quality everywhere is no joke) so do not skip on this incredible bar.
Bar Antonio
Now while this isn’t technically in the Old Town, it’s only a short walk and it’s worth it as this is a MUST visit. And for nothing other than the iconic Spanish Tortilla. This is no ordinary tortilla. It is the tortilla of dreams – thick, caramalised, perfectly runny, and a must-try. I have thought about it every day since I got home.
La Vina
La Vina is the legendary Old Town bar that invented the original Basque burnt cheesecake – caramelised on the outside, impossibly creamy inside, and now a global icon loved by chefs and travellers alike. You haven’t truly been to San Sebastian if you haven’t had this local delight!
La cepa
What to order: The Jamon. It is outstanding. Just trust me.
La Cepa is a traditional, old‑school pintxos bar with rustic Basque charm, and generations‑old recipes – a cosy, authentic stop in the heart of San Sebastian’s Parte Vieja.
Ganbara
What to order: The mushroom and egg pintxo – just wow – and the giant red prawns.
Disclaimer: It’s closed on Mondays!
Famed for being Anthony Bourdain’s recommendation, Ganbara is a must-visit Old Town institution celebrated for its legendary wild mushrooms, pristine seafood, and seasonal produce.
Casa Urola
Casa Urola is a beloved Old Town favourite blending traditional Basque cooking with seasonal finesse – known for its outstanding seafood, grilled fish like turbot and hake kokotxas, and an upstairs dining room that elevates classic flavours with Michelin‑recommended precision.
Disclaimer: Make sure to book or you won’t get in!
Bar Paco Bueno
What to order: The deep fried prawns – crisp, piping hot, and legendary among locals for being one of the most satisfying pintxos in San Sebastián. They are also a fabulous hangover cure!
This is a beloved old school favourite known for its buzzing atmosphere, classic Basque pintxos, and a loyal local crowd that keeps the bar packed night after night.
Gandarias
What to order: everything.
This is the holy grail, and so underrated. The scallops, the skewers of different cuts of meat, everything. You won’t be disappointed here.
Tip: They have an evening restaurant which you should absolutely consider making a reservation at!
Cervecerías La Mejillonera
What to order: El Tigres – which are mussels in the most amazing sauce.
This is a lively classic known for its no‑frills atmosphere, cold beer, and mussel and calamari dishes. Grab a spot at the counter, order a few montaditos, and soak up the buzzing, old-school pintxos bar energy.
