Technically, they’re called pintxos.
Practically? They’re everything!
In San Sebastián, you don’t sit down for one grand meal—you move. From bar to bar, bite to bite. With each stop, you’re tasting the rhythm of a city where food is culture and pintxos are an art form. Some are classics, passed down through generations. Others are modern twists that push flavor boundaries. All are small, intentional, and made to be savored while standing.
This is not a checklist. It’s a crawl. A conversation. A celebration of flavor and place.
Here’s our COZY guide to 8 pintxo bars in San Sebastián—where to go, what to order and how to wander with style (and appetite).
Bar Nestor
Famous for doing a few things incredibly well.
Bar Nestor is tiny, unpretentious, and always packed for a reason. There’s no printed menu—just a few chalkboard specials and the hum of people who know exactly what they came for. The highlight? Their Txuleta steak, aged and grilled to perfection. Only a limited number are served daily, and you’ll need to write your name down early to get one. Add their seasonal tomato salad and blistered Padrón peppers, and you’ve got one of the most iconic bites in town.
Order: Tomato salad, Pimientos de Padrón, Txuleta steak (if you’re lucky)
COZY Tip: Arrive before 1pm to get on the steak list—they’ll call your name when it’s ready.
Ganbara
A local favorite—and a must for food lovers in the know.
Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, Ganbara is a timeless spot blending rustic Basque flavors with refined presentation. It’s a favorite among locals and visiting chefs alike. While the pintxos displayed behind the bar are tempting, the real stars are made to order—like the wild mushrooms topped with an egg yolk, or the jamón ibérico layered in a flaky croissant.
Order: Wild mushrooms with egg yolk, Jamón croissant
COZY Tip: Skip the tables—stand at the bar, chat with the staff, and let them guide you.
Borda Berri
A no-reservations, high-impact stop for creative pintxos.
Borda Berri breaks the mold. Here, pintxos are cooked-to-order and full of bold flavor. Expect no seats, no reservations, and no-frills service—just incredible food. It’s standing room only, and everything arrives hot, fresh, and with character. Their veal cheeks are legendary, the risottos rich and comforting, and the grilled octopus might be one of the best bites in the city.
Order: Veal cheek, creamy risotto, grilled octopus
COZY Tip: Embrace the chaos—crowded, loud, and completely worth it.
La Viña
Home of the world’s most famous Basque Burnt Cheesecake.
La Viña is a San Sebastián institution—and the birthplace of a dessert that’s now replicated around the world. Their cheesecake is dense, caramelized on top, and surprisingly light inside. It’s the perfect way to end your pintxo crawl on a sweet, indulgent note. Don’t let the simple surroundings fool you—this is world-class pastry.
Order: Basque cheesecake with a glass of sherry
COZY Tip: Come mid-afternoon to skip the line and take your time.
Bar Txepetxa
An anchovy bar that’s anything but ordinary.
Txepetxa has elevated anchovies to an art form. This family-run bar specializes in inventive pairings—think anchovies with sea urchin or even blueberry jam. The combinations might surprise you, but they’re a masterclass in balance and Basque ingenuity. Whether you’re a seafood lover or skeptic, this stop is a must.
Order: Anchovies with sea urchin or blueberry jam
COZY Tip: Start safe, then get adventurous. One bite might change your mind.
A Fuego Negro
Modern, edgy and full of personality.
This bar brings a playful, almost punk-rock twist to pintxos. The vibe is loud, creative, and unexpected—with a menu that blends traditional Basque flavors with global influences. Think mini wagyu burgers, black squid ink dishes, and clever cocktails. It’s a fun detour when you’re ready to try something a little wild.
Order: Mini Kobe burger (“Makobe”) and anything blackboard-special
COZY Tip: It’s a great late-night spot when the classics start to blend together and you want a twist.
Casa Urola
Elegant yet approachable, with incredible upstairs dining.
Casa Urola balances traditional Basque cuisine with a refined edge. The pintxos downstairs are excellent, but if you want to sit down for a proper meal after your crawl, head upstairs. Chef Pablo Loureiro uses local, seasonal ingredients to craft dishes that feel both rooted and elevated.
Order: Grilled foie gras, txangurro (crab), or any daily seafood special
COZY Tip: Reserve upstairs for a seated experience—or stay casual and enjoy a glass of wine with a pintxo at the bar.
Sirimiri Gastroleku
Trendy, vibrant and a bit of a local secret.
Just off the waterfront, Sirimiri is a younger, cooler sibling to its more traditional neighbors. The space has a cozy vibe with exposed brick, curated cocktails, and beautifully plated pintxos. It’s ideal for a break between old-school stops or a casual aperitif before dinner.
Order: Seared scallops, Iberian pork, or their signature cocktails
COZY Tip: Come around sunset, grab a corner seat, and ease into the evening with style.
The Final Bite
Pintxos aren’t just snacks. They’re a way of seeing the city—of tasting its past, present and creative soul.
So go slow. Stay standing. Order the thing you can’t pronounce. Talk to the person next to you. Let your appetite guide you.
San Sebastián waits. Stay COZY.
