The Basques have a tradition of eating small snacks – known as pintxo – in their bars (our featured image is by Kent Wang). Sharing food with friends and family is a cornerstone of the region’s culture. The overwhelming number of establishments selling pintxo is evidence of that alone.
Here are five of the best pintxo bars in San Sebastián, the coastal capital of the Basque County.
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A Fuego Negro
The black walls and low-slung designer lighting are indications of A Fuego Negro’s modern take on the pintxo – some say it’s the most innovative in the city. Outdo the other cosmopolitan diners and opt for the nine-item tasting menu.
Bar Zeruko
Arguably the most contemporary of the city’s pintxo bars, Zeruko is all about the kind of creative touches you’d expect of an upscale Michelin Star-chasing restaurant. Don’t miss the signature La hoguera dish, where you smoke your own codfish at your table.
Borda Berri
This homely place – its yellow walls are peppered with old photos – is best in the evenings. There’s no fixed menu – the chalkboard tells you what’s available. If possible, try the slow-cooked beef cheek and the mushroom risotto.
Gandarias
This dual bar and restaurant is a carnivore’s dream come true. True meat lovers might overlook the great pintxos on offer here in order to try the steak or the highly acclaimed pig’s nose.
The name of this cute little bar translates as the wooden spoon, which is indicative of the lack of pretension here. Be sure to try the viera dish, a scallop wrapped in bacon. It’s well known to locals and tourists – in other words, prepare to be ‘squeezed in’ and/or wait for a table.
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Written by insider city guide series Hg2 | A Hedonist’s guide to…
