San Sebastian is not only famous for its beaches or pintxos. It is also one of the Gastronomic capitals of the world , with more Michelin stars per square meter than any other city (except Kyoto, Japan).
If you are looking for a culinary experience unforgettable , here we leave you a selection of 5 Michelin-starred restaurants worth visiting From traditional to avant-garde, each offers something unique.
1. Arzak — Basque tradition elevated to art
One of the great temples of Basque gastronomy. Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena combine family tradition with innovation.
- Stars: ★★★
- Type of kitchen: Contemporary Basque
- Location: Alto de Miracruz, in the Gros neighborhood
- Average price tasting menu: €260 approx.
What makes it special: Their gastronomic laboratory and the care with which they treat each local product.
Advance reservation required
Website : arzak.es
Image credit: This image was obtained from Arzak
2. Akelarre — Kitchen with views to infinity
Pedro Subijana offers a multi-sensory experience in a restaurant with spectacular views of the Cantabrian Sea .
- Stars: ★★★
- Type of kitchen: Modern Basque with an international touch
- Location: Mount Igueldo
- Average price tasting menu: From 250 €
What makes it unique: You can combine the meal with a stay at their 5-star hotel.
Website: akelarre.net
Image credit: This image was obtained from Akelarre
3. Mugaritz — Pure avant-garde for adventurous palates
It's not a meal, it's a philosophical and sensory experience Andoni Luis Aduriz proposes an experimental menu that changes every season.
- Stars: ★★
- Type of kitchen: Experimental / conceptual
- Location: Errenteria (15 minutes from San Sebastián)
- Tasting menu price: €250–290
Recommended for: Curious, foodies and open-minded gastronomic travelers.
Website: mugaritz.com
Image credit: This image was obtained from Mugaritz
4. Amelia by Paulo Airaudo — Elegance and precision
Located inside the Villa Favorita Hotel, facing La Concha Bay, this restaurant offers an elegant, modern, and highly personal experience.
- Stars: ★★
- Type of kitchen: European haute cuisine with Argentine touches
- Location: La Concha Promenade, center
- Tasting menu price: From 240 €
Curious fact: The chef has worked in restaurants around the world, from Argentina to Italy and Japan.
Website: ameliarestaurant.com
Image credit: This image was obtained from TheFork
5. Kokotxa — Haute cuisine in the Old Town
A smaller, more intimate restaurant with a well-deserved Michelin star His cuisine is delicate, creative and full of nuances.
- Stars: ★
- Type of kitchen: Basque with Mediterranean and Asian influences
- Location: Old Town, a step away from the port
- Average price tasting menu: From 150 €
Perfect for: A Michelin-starred experience in the heart of the historic center.
Website: restaurantekokotxa.com
Image credit: This image was obtained from Kokotxa
Bonus: What if you can't go to all of them?
If you can't make a reservation or your budget is tight, remember that there are many pintxo bars in San Sebastián where restaurant-trained chefs apply their techniques to more informal options.
Local recommendation: Ask for a wine pairing or the house wine. Many restaurants work with exclusive Basque wineries.
And after a big meal?
Return to your vacation apartment in San Sebastián with all the comforts: sofa, views, silence... and the kitchen in case you want to continue savoring the day with a good wine.
In SanSe Holidays We offer you the perfect accommodation for a gourmet getaway.
