Spain's Food Capital: San Sebastian

Located on Spain’s northern coast in the Basque Country, San Sebastian is home to countless Michelin-starred restaurants, pintxo bars, fresh food markets, and gourmet shops — making it famous as the food capital of España.

Restaurants of San Sebastian

San Sebastian has one of the highest numbers of Michelin stars per square metre in the world, with restaurants like Arzak, Kokotxa, Akelare, Martín Berasategui, and Mugaritz. Akelarre, Arzak, and Martín Berasategui each hold three Michelin stars, while Arzak was named one of the World's Top 50 Restaurants in 2016.

Located right on the coast, San Sebastian also offers some of the freshest seafood in Spain. Signature Basque dishes include bacalao pil pil (cod fried in olive oil until the juices emulsify), percebes (goose barnacles), squid in its own ink, and kokotxas (cod or hake cheeks).

Pintxos — San Sebastian’s Famous Tapas

San Sebastian has its own style of tapas known as pintxos. These small bites are typically pieces of bread topped with ingredients like Spanish ham, prawns, anchovies, cheese, chorizo, or croquettes — all held together with a toothpick.

Markets and Fresh Produce

The city is also home to some of the best fresh food markets in Spain. San Martín and La Bretxa are the two most famous, supplying top restaurants with seasonal, local produce.

Sweet Treats in San Sebastian

San Sebastian’s desserts are just as impressive as its savory dishes. Two must-try specialties are Pastel Vasco — a spongy pastry filled with vanilla or almond cream (sometimes with cherries) — and pantxineta, a puff pastry filled with custard and topped with almonds.

Go ahead and fit San Sebastian into your itinerary and taste food that will feed your soul. Contact us to plan the perfect trip tailored to your taste.