Let’s just dive in and answer this all-important question: Is San Sebastián the world’s greatest city for foodies?
With the utmost enthusiasm and, yes, a touch of bias, we declare a resounding YES!
San Sebastián is a bona fide paradise for lovers of exquisite food and drink!
To find out why for yourself, join us on one of our San Sebastián and Basque Country day tours.
There’s no better way to connect with our city, its culture, and its cuisine.
Of course, we don’t expect you to just take our word for all of this. So, let us explain why we think San Sebastián is the best city in the world for food connoisseurs!
If any questions spring to mind while you’re reading, please contact us for all the information you need.
San Sebastián is One of the World Leaders for Michelin Stars Per Capita
Despite its modest size, San Sebastián boasts an impressive number of Michelin-starred restaurants per capita.
This is a testament to the unparalleled culinary talent that thrives here.
At the time of writing, our city has more than 14 Michelin stars, and a number of our restaurants and bars have been recongized by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Prepare your taste buds for an extraordinary experience as you indulge in the creative masterpieces of world-renowned chefs.
If you’re a fan of exclusive dining experiences, we think you’ll love our custom tours in San Sebastián.
Let our experienced team design a bespoke food tour in the city, or anywhere else in the Basque Country, tailored to you.
Three Restaurants in San Sebastián Have Three Michelin Stars
On the topic of Michelin stars, three San Sebastián restaurants have earned a coveted three Michelin stars, the highest honor any restaurant can achieve.
Arzak, Akelarre, and Martin Berasategui’s eponymous restaurant redefine fine dining, elevating it to an art form. These three chefs all played a hand in forming the “Nouveau Basque Cuisine” movement.
If you want an unforgettable fine dining experience while you’re in town, you know where to go!
The Seafood in San Sebastián is Incredible!
Nestled between the Cantabrian Sea and lush mountains, San Sebastián is blessed with an abundance of fresh seafood.
Anchovies, roasted hake, monkfish, and turbot, mouthwatering baby squid in ink sauce, bacalao, and so much more, our seafood dishes are a celebration of the sea’s bounty.
If seafood is your thing, you won’t fall in love with San Sebastián, you’ll plummet!
Pintxos: Welcome to the World of Basque Tapas
Ah, pintxos — the heart and soul of San Sebastián’s culinary culture!
These delightful small bites are integral to an authentic San Sebastián experience.
For a deep dive into this cornerstone of Basque cuisine, check out our Short Guide to San Sebastián’s Pintxos. It’s packed with everything you need to know about pintxos!
Hopping from one pintxo taberna to another on a bar-hopping adventure through the vibrant streets of the Old Town is the best way to immerse yourself in the essence of our city.
From traditional classics to innovative creations, each taberna boasts an array of tantalizing pintxos on the bar that will leave you spoilt for choice.
Join Basque Bites on our pintxo dinner tour in San Sebastián for the perfect introduction to pintxos.
Once we’ve shown you the ropes, you’ll be a pintxo pro for the rest of your stay!
Eating is a Social Act in San Sebastián
In San Sebastián, eating is more than just a way to satisfy hunger; it’s a social event.
Our culture encourages sharing good food with great company.
Gather around a table with friends and family, raise a glass of Txakoli or Rioja wine, and enjoy the conviviality that defines our dining experiences.
And don’t be surprised if your conversations spill over into neighboring groups!
Visit the San Martín and La Bretxa Food Markets for Your Own Supplies
If you’re staying in San Sebastián for a few days or more, venture into our bustling food markets to pick up some tasty supplies.
Both Mercado de San Martín and Mercado de La Bretxa offer a sensory feast with colorful displays of fresh produce, artisan cheeses, regional specialties, and more.
If your Euskara or Spanish are sharp, engage with friendly vendors and discover the stories behind the ingredients that grace our tables.
Our San Sebastián market tour and pintxo lunch starts in La Bretxa Market, so join us and get a truly local experience.
Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth with a Traditional Dessert
If you want to round off an incredible meal, indulgence awaits in our dessert selection.
You can choose from the velvety charms of the iconic Basque burnt cheesecake, the rich pastry cream in pastel vasco, or the heavenly layers of pastry, custard cream, and almonds in pantxineta.
And why just wait for dessert? Try these delectable delights at any time of day. Your secret will be safe with us!
And Wash it All Down with World-Class Wine or Sidra
Pair your culinary journey with delightful libations that complement the flavors of the Basque Country.
Sip on Txakoli, our crisp local wine with a hint of sparkle, or savor the rich and robust wines from nearby La Rioja.
For a touch of tradition, experience the unique ritual of pouring sidra (cider) from great heights to aerate the beverage, enhancing its natural flavors.
Have you got your eye on an adventure in the world-famous La Rioja wine region? We think you’ll love our La Rioja wine tour!
Start Your Gastronomic Experience with a Guided Food Tour in San Sebastián!
So, is San Sebastián the world’s best city for foodies? We hope we’ve convinced you to join us in saying YES!
But there’s only one way to find out just how amazing our city’s cuisine is — try it for yourself!
Our San Sebastián and Basque Country day tours are the perfect introduction to San Sebastián’s food scene — and a great way to learn how to explore on your own for the rest of your stay.
We’re here to help, so if you have any questions for us, please feel free to get in touch with Basque Bites!
