San Sebastian Restaurants
If you're looking for real gastronomic quality then you're in the right place
as San Sebastian has some of the finest restaurants in Spain. But Michelin star
restaurants don't come cheap. Here are some of the top recommendations.
Arzak
Address: Alto de Miracruz 21
Tel: 94-328-55-93
Opening Times: Tues-Sun 1-3:30pm; Tues-Sat 8:30-11:30pm
Closed:June 15-July 3 and Nov 5-30; closed Tues Jan-June
Juan Mari Arzak has turned this place into a restaurant of world renown which
has three Michelin stars. It is reputedly the finest restaurant in Spain which
specialises in Basque cuisine with the chef's personal touch. Some of the
favourite dishes of previous customers are listed on the back of the menu just
in case you're having a problem making your mind up. It is essential to reserve
in advance and meals are likely to cost around €100 per person.
Akelare
Address: Paseo del Padre Orkolaga 56
Tel: 94-321-20-52
Opening Times: Tues-Sun 1-3:30pm; Tues-Sat 8:30-11pm
Closed:Feb and Sept 27-Oct 15; closed Tues Jan-June
This restaurant offers similar dishes as Arzak and many visitors suggest that
the quality is of the same excellence as Arzak but in a better location lying a
few kilometres west of the city beyond the village of Igueldo which offers
superb views out to sea. The chef, Pedro Subijana, was selected as the best chef
in Spain in 1983 and his influence has shaped the development of modern Basque
cuisine ever since. The restaurant has two Michelin stars and prices are
marginally less than Arzak.
Martín Berasategui
Address: Loidi Kalea 4
Tel: 94-336-64-71
Opening Times: Wed-Sat 1-3pm and 8:30-11pm; Sun 1-3pm
Closed:Dec 15-Jan 15
Another establishment run by a starred chef is Martín Berasategui who has gained
quite a reputation in gastronomic circles. He learned his trade from his mother
who used to cook for local fishermen. His ingeneous preparation of local fish
produce is particularly outstanding.
Urepel
Address: Paseo de Salamanca 3
Tel: 94-342-40-40
Opening Times: Mon and Wed-Sat 1-3:30pm and 8:30-11pm
Closed:Easter week, July 1-23, and Dec 24-Jan 6
Urepel is run by Tero Almandoz who is acclaimed as one of the finest chefs in
the area. The restaurant may not appear as fancy as those listed above but the
food is sensational particularly the local seafood dishes which are served with
delicious sauces accompanied by exquisitely prepared vegetables. The dessert
menu is to die for.
Casa Vallés
Opening Times: Thurs-Tues 1-3pm; Thurs-Mon 8:30-11pm.
Address: Reyes Católicos 10
Tel: 94-345-22-10
Closed:2 weeks in late May
A long established local haunt located in the historical heart of the city near
the cathedral. You can eat tapas at street level rubbing shoulders with the many
locals who are regulars here or go to the upstairs dining room where you'll be
offered an extensive menu which includes some excellent fresh fish dishes.
Bodegón Alejandro
Opening Times: Tues-Sun 1-3:30pm; Tues-Sat 9-11pm
Address: Calle Fermín Calbetón 4
Tel: 94-342-71-58
Closed:Dec 21-Jan 10
Traditional restaurant offering a fixed daily menu which relies extensively on
fresh produce from the local market. First class Basque food on offer which
changes according to season.
Juanito Kojua
Address: Puerto 14
Tel: 94-342-01-80
Opening Times: Tues-Sun 1-3:30pm; Tues-Thurs and Sat 8:30-11:30pm
Closed:Jan 21-31, June 15-30, and Dec 22-Jan 3
To savour local fish dishes in a no nonsense traditional eatery this popular
little seafood restaurant in the Old Town is the place to go. A great selection
of locally caught dishes are on offer daily.
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