Welcome to the delicious culinary experience of San Sebastian and its surroundings! Located on the north coast of Spain, in the region of Guipúzcoa, San Sebastian is renowned for its rich gastronomic tradition and outstanding array of Michelin-starred restaurants. Also known as Donostia in Basque, this city is a true paradise for food enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of dishes and flavors that will delight even the most discerning palates.

San Sebastian is globally recognized for its “pintxos,” small portions of food served in the city’s bars. Pintxos are an integral part of San Sebastian’s culinary culture and provide an excellent way to sample a wide variety of flavors in one place. These creative bites are crafted with fresh and high-quality ingredients such as seafood, cured meats, meats, and vegetables, presented in an artistic and appetizing manner.

But San Sebastian doesn’t just offer pintxos; it boasts several restaurants that have been awarded Michelin stars, one of the highest honors in the gastronomy industry. These restaurants are true culinary destinations, providing unique and memorable experiences for food lovers. Here are some of the Michelin-starred restaurants in San Sebastian and Guipúzcoa:

  1. Arzak: This family-owned restaurant in San Sebastian is a true icon of Basque gastronomy, having been awarded three Michelin stars, the highest possible distinction. Founded in 1897, Arzak has been led by several generations of the Arzak family and is known for its creativity and avant-garde approach to Basque cuisine. Chef Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena Arzak are internationally recognized for their innovative cuisine, combining modern techniques with local ingredients.
  2. Martín Berasategui: With three Michelin stars, this restaurant in Lasarte-Oria is one of the most famous gastronomic destinations in the region. Chef Martín Berasategui is known for his signature cuisine, creatively blending Basque influences with touches of international flavors. The restaurant offers an exceptional gastronomic experience in an elegant and sophisticated setting.
  3. Akelarre: Perched on a hill with panoramic views of the sea, Akelarre is another iconic three-Michelin-starred restaurant in San Sebastian. Founded by chef Pedro Subijana in 1970, Akelarre is known for its creative and contemporary approach to Basque cuisine, emphasizing local and seasonal products. In addition to its impressive gastronomic offerings, Akelarre features a boutique hotel and spa, making it a complete destination for food and luxury enthusiasts.
  4. Mugaritz: Located in Renteria, just outside San Sebastian, this restaurant has been awarded two Michelin stars and is known for its avant-garde and experimental approach to cuisine. Chef Andoni Luis Aduriz has created a unique menu that challenges culinary conventions and uses local ingredients in innovative ways. Mugaritz offers a gastronomic experience that combines culinary creativity with the natural beauty of the surroundings.
  1. Elkano: Situated in Getaria, a picturesque coastal village in Guipúzcoa, Elkano is renowned for its excellent grilled fish and seafood. Led by chef Aitor Arregi, Elkano has been awarded one Michelin star and is recognized for its simple and respectful approach to local ingredients. Grilled fish, especially turbot, is the star dish of this restaurant, offering an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
  2. Casa Julián: Located in Tolosa, Casa Julián is another standout restaurant with one Michelin star in Guipúzcoa. Known for its excellent grilled meat, particularly its beef ribeye, considered one of the best in the region, Casa Julián provides a traditional and cozy gastronomic experience, focusing on local ingredients and product quality.
  3. Zuberoa: This restaurant in Oiartzun, on the outskirts of San Sebastian, has been awarded one Michelin star and is known for its creative and contemporary approach to Basque cuisine. Chef Hilario Arbelaitz uses local and seasonal ingredients to create innovative and delicious dishes that blend Basque culinary tradition with modern touches.
  1. Alameda: Located in Fuenterrabía, Alameda is a one-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a unique culinary experience. Chef Iñigo Lavado combines Basque tradition with modernity in his cuisine, using fresh and seasonal ingredients to create innovative and delicious dishes. Additionally, the restaurant has a terrace overlooking the harbor, providing a charming atmosphere to enjoy the food.
  2. Mirador de Ulía: Perched atop Mount Ulía with breathtaking panoramic views of the city, Mirador de Ulía is a one-Michelin-starred restaurant offering a sophisticated culinary experience. Chef Rubén Trincado combines local ingredients with modern culinary techniques to create elegant and flavorful dishes with a focus on regional flavors.
  3. Amelia: This small and cozy restaurant in Donostia-San Sebastian has been awarded one Michelin star and is known for its contemporary approach to Basque cuisine. Chef Paulo Airaudo, originally from Argentina, offers a unique culinary experience with creative and surprising dishes that highlight the flavors of local ingredients.

The gastronomy of San Sebastian and Guipúzcoa is a unique combination of tradition, innovation, and creativity. These Michelin-starred restaurants are just a few examples of the culinary richness of the region, offering a wide variety of options for food lovers. Whether you’re looking for traditional Basque cuisine or more avant-garde culinary experiences, the gastronomic offerings of San Sebastian and its surroundings will not disappoint. Discover the flavors and culinary culture of this beautiful region of the Basque Country and enjoy an unforgettable gastronomic experience!