Iconic Pintxos Bars in the Old Town
Iconic Pintxos Bars in the Old Town
San Sebastián is much more than a city with a beautiful beach and a picture-perfect bay. It is the world capital of pintxos, a form of miniature culinary art enjoyed from bar to bar. Doing a pintxos route in San Sebastián isn’t just about eating; it’s about immersing yourself in a vibrant culture, chatting with locals, and discovering the most authentic flavors of Basque cuisine.
In this guide, we’ll take you by the hand through the legendary Parte Vieja, the heart of the San Sebastián food scene, so you know where to go and, above all, what to eat in San Sebastián to have a memorable experience.
Pintxos: The Soul of the Pintxos Route in San Sebastián
Before we start, what is a pintxo? Unlike a tapa, a pintxo is an elaborate culinary creation that is traditionally held together with a toothpick. In San Sebastián, pintxos are works of art that adorn the bars. There are two types: “de barra” pintxos (the ones you see displayed and choose) and “hot” or “elaborate” pintxos (which are ordered on the spot and prepared in the kitchen).
If you’re looking for the best pintxos in San Sebastián, the ideal approach is to try a couple of specialties at each bar and then move on to the next one. This is known as a “txikiteo” or “poteo” and is the essence of this local custom.
The Old Town (Parte Vieja): The Epicenter of the Route
The majority of the most famous pintxos bars are located in the Parte Vieja (the old part of the city), a labyrinth of cobbled streets full of life. Here we suggest a pintxos route so you don’t miss anything. But, of course, don’t forget to forget your luggage. At Locking, you can completely let go of your worries and enjoy this wonderful city unburdened and with complete peace of mind…
- 31 de Agosto Street: This is one of the most famous streets for pintxos. Start your route here.
- Fermín Calbetón Street: Famous for its high concentration of bars. This is where you’ll find the greatest variety and atmosphere.
- Plaza de la Constitución: Ideal for a rest and for people-watching. The bars that surround it are also excellent.
Our Selection of Must-Visit Bars and Pintxos for This Route:
To guide you on the best pintxos route in San Sebastián, we’ve selected some of the most iconic bars.
- La Cuchara de San Telmo: (31 de Agosto Street). Famous for its hot pintxos, such as the Beef Cheek in Red Wine (Carrillera de ternera al vino tinto). It’s a crowded spot, but it’s worth the wait.
- Txepetxa: (Pescadería Street). If you’re wondering where to go for pintxos in San Sebastián if you love seafood, this is your place. It’s known for its delicious anchovies with different dressings.
- Bar Goiz Argi: (Fermín Calbetón Street). You can’t leave without trying their Shrimp Skewer (Brocheta de gambas). It’s simple, but with an unparalleled flavor.
- Bar Nestor: (Pescadería Street). Famous for its beef steak, its tomatoes, and its potato omelet. They only make one omelet a day at a fixed time, so get there early!
- Ganbara: (San Jerónimo Street). A classic that combines bar pintxos with hot, made-to-order dishes. Their grilled mushrooms with egg yolk are legendary.
(Sugerencia de imagen: Un primer plano de un plato de pintxos. Atributo ALT: los mejores pintxos de San Sebastián)
To fully enjoy your pintxos route, here are some essential tips to help you experience it like a local.
- Order and Move On: The ideal approach is to order a drink and a couple of pintxos at each bar. Don’t stay too long in one place.
- Don’t Limit Yourself to the Bar: Ask if they have “hot” pintxos. Often, the best creations are made to order on the spot.
- Be Patient: The bars are often crowded. It’s part of the experience.
- Learn the Basics: A
kaixo“hello,” a “thank you,eskerrik asko” and a “please”una caña, por favorwill open many doors for you.
Going on a pintxos route in San Sebastián is one of the best ways to get to know the city and its people. It’s a ritual that unites locals and visitors around the table in an atmosphere of constant celebration.
