San Sebastián 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 visitingFrom 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
Web: 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 experienceAndoni 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 starHis 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 €
perfecto para: 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.
