Attention to all you foodies

Welcome to my mouthwatering post about San Sebastian, officially known as Donostia is a beautiful coastal city in Spain’s northern Basque Country region that is referred to as the “Michelin capital of the world.” The city has more Michelin-starred restaurants per capita than any other city in the world, but here’s the thing… you don’t have to spend big to eat like royalty in this city. In fact, you will not need to go near a Michelin-star restaurant during your time in San Sebastian, just do as the locals do and flow through the tiny streets, Pintxos bar hoping!

San Sebastian is a city that boasts a distinctive fusion of Basque and Spanish cultures, resulting in a diverse selection of culinary offerings. From classic pintxos bars to innovative modern cuisine, In this article, I will delve into the ideal times of year to plan a trip to San Sebastian, highlight some of the renowned Michelin-starred restaurants, and showcase the top-rated hotels and pintxos bars in the area.

Michelin Star Restaurants

Restaurante Arzak

Arzak, run by father-daughter duo Juan Mari Arzak and Elena Arzak, has been serving their spenders for four generations since 1897. It is one of the most famous Michelin-starred restaurants in San Sebastian. The restaurant has held three Michelin stars since 1989 and has been ranked among the top 50 restaurants in the world for over a decade. Arzak’s avant-garde Basque cuisine features dishes like “egg yolk with asparagus and truffles” and “squid with coconut and sea lettuce.” The restaurant also has an extensive wine list that features over 1,500 bottles.

Some of Arzak’s signature dishes include “egg yolk with asparagus and truffles,” “sea urchin with vanilla and passion fruit,” and “duck foie gras with apple and celery.”

Arzak – Some of Arzak’s signature dishes include “egg yolk with asparagus and truffles,” “sea urchin with vanilla and passion fruit,” and “duck foie gras with apple and celery.”

www.arzak.es

Sleep

Where to stay

San Sebastian offers visitors an array of options for accommodation, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Here are some of the best hotels in San Sebastian.

Hotel Maria Cristina

The Hotel Maria Cristina, a lavish five-star hotel nestled in the centre of San Sebastian, radiates timeless charm. Constructed in 1912, the hotel offers 136 generously sized and finely adorned rooms and suites, complete with contemporary facilities. Alongside a fitness centre and a spa, the hotel proudly boasts the Michelin-starred Eme Be Garrote restaurant. For those travellers who crave luxury and relaxation, the Hotel Maria Cristina is the ultimate destination

www.hotel-maria-cristina.eu

Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra

The Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is a four-star hotel located on the beachfront in San Sebastian. The hotel features 167 rooms and suites that are tastefully decorated, and many offer stunning views of the sea. The hotel also has an excellent restaurant, La Brasserie Mari Galant, that serves Basque cuisine, a rooftop bar, and a terrace. The Hotel de Londres y de Inglaterra is an excellent choice for those who want to be close to the beach and enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

www.hlondres.com

Lasala Plaza Hotel

The Lasala Plaza is a boutique hotel located in the heart of San Sebastián. With 58 rooms and suites, the hotel offers a comfortable and luxurious stay for its guests. Each room is decorated in a modern and elegant style, equipped with the latest technology and designed to provide guests with a relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

One of the hotel’s highlights is its rooftop terrace, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the sea. Guests can enjoy a drink or a meal while taking in the stunning vistas. The hotel also features a fitness centre and a spa, offering a range of treatments and massages.

Lasala Plaza Hotel is ideally situated for exploring San Sebastián’s rich cultural and culinary offerings. The city’s Old Town, with its narrow streets and bustling pintxos bars, is just a short walk away, while the beach and the famous La Concha promenade are also within easy reach

www.lasalaplazahotel.com

Hotel Astoria7

The Hotel Astoria7 is a four-star hotel located in the city centre of San Sebastian. The hotel features 102 rooms that are individually decorated and inspired by famous movies and directors. The hotel also has an excellent restaurant, La Cafeteria Astoria7, a rooftop terrace, and a fitness centre. The Hotel Astoria7 is an excellent choice for those who love cinema and want to stay in a hotel with a unique concept.

www.zinema7hotel.com

NH Collection San Sebastian Aranzazu

The NH Collection San Sebastian Aranzazu is a four-star hotel located in the residential area of Ondarreta, a short walk from the beach. The hotel features 180 rooms that are modern, spacious, and equipped with modern amenities. The hotel also has an excellent restaurant, Kukuarri, a fitness centre, and a terrace. The NH Collection San Sebastian Aranzazu is a perfect choice for travellers who want to be close to the beach and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.

www.nh-collection.com/en

Street Food

Pintxos bars are one of the city’s most beloved culinary traditions since the 1950’s. Pintxos (pronounced “pinchos”) are small, bite-sized snacks typically served on a skewer or piece of bread. They are meant to be enjoyed as a social experience, with locals and tourists alike mingling over plates of delicious pintxos and glasses of wine, beer or cider. In this article, I will introduce you to some of the best pintxos bars in San Sebastian, offering an insight into this city’s vibrant food culture.

Bar Zeruko

Located at Calle Pescaderia, 10, Donostia, Gipuzkoa, in the heart of the Old Town, Bar Zeruko is a popular spot for pintxos enthusiasts. The bar is known for its inventive pintxos, which are beautifully presented and bursting with flavour. Some of the most popular options include the Foie Gras Micuit con Manzana Caramelizada (Foie Gras with Caramelized Apple) and the Txipiron en su Tinta (Squid in its Ink). The bar also offers an extensive wine list to pair with the pintxos.

Bar Txepetxa

For seafood lovers, Bar Txepetxa, Calle de Pescaderia, 5
2003 San Sebastian, is a must-visit. This cosy pintxos bar specializes in anchovies, with over a dozen different varieties on offer. The anchovies are served on slices of bread, accompanied by toppings such as tomato, peppers, and olives. The bar’s signature dish is the Gilda, a skewer of anchovy, olive, and pickled pepper, named after the character played by Rita Hayworth in the eponymous film.

La Cuchara de San Telmo

La Cuchara de San Telmo is a popular pintxos bar that attracts crowds with its creative, contemporary take on traditional Basque cuisine. Some of the standout dishes include the Beef Cheeks in Red Wine Sauce and the Grilled Octopus with Potatoes and Paprika Oil. The bar also has an excellent selection of local wines and craft beers.

Bar Sport

Bar Sport is a local institution, known for its relaxed, friendly atmosphere and its excellent pintxos. The bar offers a wide range of options, from classic favourites like the Tortilla de Bacalao (Cod Omelette) to more unusual options like the Morcilla con Manzana (Black Pudding with Apple). The bar also has a great selection of craft beers and ciders.

Gandarias

Located in the heart of the Old Town, Gandarias is a classic pintxos bar that has been serving up delicious Basque cuisine since 1936. The bar has a warm, cosy atmosphere and an extensive menu of pintxos, including some of the best Jamón Ibérico (Iberian Ham) in the city. Other standout dishes include the Grilled Prawns with Garlic and Parsley and the Beef Cheeks in Red Wine.

Bar Borda Berri

Bar Borda Berri is a trendy, modern pintxos bar that is popular with both locals and tourists. The bar has a sleek, contemporary design and a menu that focuses on fresh, seasonal ingredients. Some of the must-try dishes include Grilled Foie Gras with Caramelized Onions and the Slow-Cooked Beef Cheeks with Truffle Mash.

A Fuego Negro

For a more avant-garde pintxos experience, head to A Fuego Negro. This innovative bar combines traditional Basque flavours with modern techniques and presentation, resulting in a menu that is both exciting and delicious. Some of the standout dishes include the Kobe Beef Tartare with Egg Yolk and Truffle Oil and the Foie Gras with Black Garlic.

La Viña

La Viña is a traditional Basque bar that is famous for its cheesecake. The recipe for the cheesecake is a closely guarded secret, but it is said to contain a generous amount of cream cheese and a hint of sherry. The bar also offers a selection of savoury pintxos, including Grilled Prawns and the Txangurro (Crab) Stuffed Peppers.

Bar Bergara

Bar Bergara is a neighbourhood pintxos bar that is popular with locals. The bar has a friendly, laid-back atmosphere and an extensive menu of classic pintxos, including the Gilda and the Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes). The bar also has an excellent selection of local wines and ciders.

Bar Nestor

Tucked away in the old town of San Sebastian, Spain, Bar Nestor has a warm ambience and mouth-watering offerings. Step inside and you’ll discover a delightful tradition: the owner lovingly crafts just two tortillas de patatas daily, ensuring each slice is a slice of perfection. And to ensure everyone gets a taste, they’ve introduced a fun ticketing system – adding a touch of excitement to your visit!

But that’s not all – Bar Nestor is also famous for its delicious Basque-style chuletas, cooked to juicy, succulent perfection on the grill. It’s the kind of place where every bite feels like a warm hug from the chef.

So, if you’re looking for a welcoming atmosphere, delectable dishes, and a sprinkle of tradition, look no further than Bar Nestor. It’s a place where every visit feels like catching up with an old friend – comforting, familiar, and always a delight.

www.bar-nestor.com

San Sebastian is truly a foodie paradise, with countless Pintxos bars. While we’ve highlighted some of the best bars, many more are still waiting to be discovered. One helpful tool to make your Pintxos crawl easier is the Pintxos app, available for download on the app store. This app was created with the help of local chefs, and it provides a comprehensive guide to the best Pintxos bars in the city, along with recommendations for dishes to try.

Android play.google.com/apps/pintxos.app

Apple apps.apple.com/app/pintxos

Helpful Tips

Check out these tips and tricks to get the most out of a successful pintxos crawl:

Make sure you’re good and hungry, and wear something comfy: Pintxos might be small, but they’re super filling, and you’ll want to try as many as possible. Skip breakfast if you need to, and make sure you’re wearing clothes that have some wiggle room.

Cash is King: While most pintxos bars now take cards, some of them are still cash-only. It’s always better to be safe than sorry, so bring some cash with you just in case.

Share with your friends: Pintxos are meant to be shared, so order a few different plates and share them with your mates. It’s a great way to try lots of different dishes and make the most of your experience.

Check the opening hours: Lots of pintxos bars in San Sebastian follow the Spanish schedule, which means they might be closed for a few hours between lunch and dinner. By using the Pintxos App, Make sure you double-check the hours for each place you’re planning on visiting.

Get ready for crowds: The best pintxos bars in San Sebastian will get really busy during peak hours, which is a good sign that they’re popular for a reason. If you’re not a fan of crowds, try visiting during off-peak times instead.

Ask for recommendations: The bartenders and waitstaff at Pintxos bars are usually super passionate and knowledgeable about their food. Don’t be afraid to ask them for recommendations or their favourite dishes. They might suggest something that’s made with local ingredients, or a speciality that you won’t want to miss.

If you follow these tips, you’ll be all set to enjoy some delicious pintxos and soak up the awesome vibe of San Sebastian’s culinary scene.

 Festivals

The Fight is on

Ah, the age-old debate between summer holiday and ski holiday! It’s a tough one, isn’t it? Both have their merits, and both offer unique experiences that can’t be replicated by the other. So which one should you choose? Let’s take a look at some of the best destinations for each and weigh up the pros and cons.

Summer Holidays:

When it comes to summer holidays, there are so many amazing destinations to choose from. From sun-soaked beaches to bustling cities, there’s something for everyone. Here are just a few of the best:

1. Greece – With its stunning islands, ancient history, and delicious cuisine, Greece is a summer holiday paradise.
2. Croatia – The crystal clear waters of the Adriatic Sea, charming coastal towns, and historic cities make Croatia a must-visit destination.
3. Spain – From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the sunny beaches of the Costa del Sol, Spain has something for everyone.
4. Italy – With its world-renowned cuisine, beautiful architecture, and stunning coastline, Italy is a summer holiday classic.
5. Thailand – For a more exotic summer holiday, Thailand offers gorgeous beaches, fascinating culture, and delicious food.

Now, let’s look at the pros and cons of a summer holiday:

Pros:

• Warm weather and plenty of sunshine
• Great for outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and sightseeing
• Perfect for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts
• A more relaxed and laid-back vibe

Cons:

• Crowded beaches and tourist hotspots
• Higher prices and longer lines
• Hot weather can be uncomfortable for some
• More difficult to find snow and winter sports activities

So, what is the difference?

Hotel star ratings are a universal classification system used to distinguish one hotel from another. They are used globally to provide guests with a general idea of what to expect from a hotel before they book a room. However, it can be confusing for people to understand the difference between hotel star ratings and what to expect from each level. In this article, we will clarify the differences between hotel star ratings and what you can expect from each rating.

Understanding Hotel Star Ratings

Hotel star ratings are typically awarded by independent organisations or government agencies, which evaluate the quality of the hotel based on a set of criteria. These criteria may include things like the quality of the hotel’s facilities, the level of service provided by staff, the range of amenities available to guests, and the overall cleanliness and upkeep of the property.

In general, the higher the star rating, the more luxurious and comfortable the hotel is likely to be. For example, a five-star hotel is generally considered to be at the top end of the luxury scale, with exceptional amenities, superior service, and the highest levels of comfort and convenience. In contrast, a one-star hotel may offer basic accommodation with limited amenities and services.

What to Expect from Each Hotel Star Rating

If you’re planning a hotel stay, you may have seen star ratings used to describe the level of luxury or service you can expect. But what do these ratings actually mean, and how can they help you choose the right hotel for your needs? Let’s take a closer look at hotel star ratings and what to expect from each.

One-Star Hotels

One-star hotels are typically budget-friendly and offer basic accommodations with minimal amenities. Rooms may be small and sparsely furnished, and some may not have private bathrooms. These hotels are generally best for travellers on a tight budget who don’t require a lot of frills or extras.

Two-Star Hotels

Two-star hotels offer slightly more in terms of amenities and service than one-star hotels. Rooms may be slightly larger and come with basic amenities like a TV and phone. Some two-star hotels may also offer a continental breakfast or other basic meal options. These hotels are a good option for travellers who want a bit more comfort and convenience without breaking the bank.

Three-Star Hotels

Three-star hotels offer comfortable accommodations with a range of amenities and services. Rooms are typically larger than those found in one- and two-star hotels and may come with additional amenities like a mini-fridge, coffee maker, or complimentary toiletries. Three-star hotels may also offer on-site dining options, fitness facilities, and other perks to make your stay more enjoyable.

Four-Star Hotels

Four-star hotels are considered to be upscale and offer a high level of service and amenities. Rooms are spacious and well-appointed, with high-quality furnishings and luxurious bedding. Four-star hotels may offer on-site dining options, fitness centres, spas, and other luxury amenities. These hotels are a good option for travellers who want a luxurious experience without the exorbitant prices of five-star hotels.

Five-Star Hotels

Five-star hotels are the epitome of luxury and offer the highest level of service and amenities. Rooms are often lavishly decorated with high-end furnishings and feature top-of-the-line bedding and linens. Five-star hotels may offer multiple on-site dining options, spas, fitness centres, and other luxury amenities like concierge service and butler service. These hotels are a good option for travellers who want the ultimate in luxury and are willing to pay a premium for it.

Six-Star and Seven-Star Hotels

While six-star and seven-star ratings are not officially recognized by any industry standard or regulatory body, they are sometimes used to describe ultra-luxury hotels that go above and beyond the typical five-star rating. These hotels are known for offering exclusive amenities, personalized service, and one-of-a-kind experiences that are not found at other luxury hotels.

Some of the most well-known examples of six-star and seven-star hotels include:

• Burj Al Arab, Dubai: This iconic sail-shaped hotel is often considered to be the world’s only seven-star hotel. It features opulent suites, a private beach, and a stunning sky-high restaurant.

• Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi: This sprawling palace-style hotel is set amidst lush gardens and features a private beach, a marina, and even a gold vending machine.

• Laucala Island, Fiji: This exclusive private island resort features just 25 villas, each with its own infinity pool and personal staff.

• The Mark, New York: This sophisticated and stylish hotel on Manhattan’s Upper East Side is known for its impeccable service and luxurious amenities.

• The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo: This elegant hotel is located in the heart of Tokyo’s Roppongi district and features stunning views of the city from its spacious rooms and suites.

It’s worth noting that these ratings are subjective and can vary depending on who you ask. Ultimately, the most important thing is to do your research and choose a hotel that meets your individual needs and preferences, regardless of

The Benefits of Collaborating with Influencers

Collaborating with influencers can provide numerous benefits to hotels and resorts.

Working with professional reviewers can be hugely beneficial for hotels and resorts. Positive reviews can enhance a hotel’s reputation, attract new guests and build a loyal customer base and also offer valuable feedback for improvement, helping hotels identify areas where they can enhance their services and better meet the needs of their guests.

1. Increased Online Visibility and Reputation: Working with influencers can help improve the hotel’s online visibility and reputation. By sharing their experiences at the hotel with their followers, influencers can promote the property and increase its exposure to a broader audience.
2. Valuable Feedback and Suggestions for Improvement: Collaborating with influencers can provide hotels and resorts with valuable feedback and suggestions for improvement. Influencers are skilled at identifying what their followers are looking for in their accommodations and can provide valuable insights into what the hotel can do to enhance the guest experience continually.
3. Improved Guest Experience: Working with influencers can help improve the guest experience at the hotel. By providing valuable insights into what travellers are looking for in their accommodations, influencers can help hotels and resorts better understand their guests’ needs and preferences.

Influencers can play a significant role in writing hotel articles and reviews. They provide valuable insights into the various aspects of a hotel or resort, including the accommodations, amenities, food and service. Additionally, influencers can create engaging and visually appealing content that can attract a broader audience and provide valuable exposure for hotels and resorts. As a result, hotels and resorts can benefit significantly from working with influencers, as they can help improve their online visibility, reputation, and guest experience

The Role of Influencers & Bloggers in Writing Hotel Articles and Reviews

In today’s digital age, social media influencers & travel writers have become powerful tools for marketing and promotion. One area where influencers can significantly impact the industry is the travel and hospitality sector. Influencers can leverage their large following to promote hotels and resorts and provide valuable insights to potential guests. In this blog post, we will explore how influencers can help write hotel articles and reviews and their benefits for the travel industry.

Who are Influencers?

Influencers are individuals with a large following on social media platforms such as Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and TickTok They have a significant influence on their followers’ purchasing decisions and can help promote brands and products to a broader audience. Influencers come from various niches, including fashion, food, beauty, and travel.

How Influencers can help Write Hotel Articles and Reviews

When it comes to planning a trip, choosing the right hotel or travel destination can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to determine which one will provide the best experience. This is where professional reviewers come in, providing valuable information and guidance to help travellers make informed decisions, Influencers can assist in writing hotel articles and reviews due to their expertise and experience in travel. As part of their niche, influencers travel extensively and stay at different accommodations, including hotels and resorts. They understand what travellers look for in their accommodations and can provide valuable insights into the different hotels’ unique features.

In addition, influencers are skilled at creating engaging and visually appealing content that can attract a broader audience. They can create high-quality videos and photos that showcase the hotel’s facilities and amenities, providing potential guests with a more immersive experience. Influencers can also write compelling captions and blog posts that provide practical information and highlight the hotel’s strengths.

Professional reviewers are individuals or organizations that are experienced in evaluating hotels and travel destinations. They have the qualifications, expertise and knowledge necessary to provide objective and unbiased opinions on the quality of service and accommodations offered.

Reviewers will come from various backgrounds, including travel journalists, bloggers, and industry experts and deeply understand what travellers are looking for and can provide valuable insights to help you make informed decisions.

The Benefits of Collaborating with Influencers

Collaborating with influencers can provide numerous benefits to hotels and resorts.

Working with professional reviewers can be hugely beneficial for hotels and resorts. Positive reviews can enhance a hotel’s reputation, attract new guests and build a loyal customer base and also offer valuable feedback for improvement, helping hotels identify areas where they can enhance their services and better meet the needs of their guests.

1. Increased Online Visibility and Reputation: Working with influencers can help improve the hotel’s online visibility and reputation. By sharing their experiences at the hotel with their followers, influencers can promote the property and increase its exposure to a broader audience.
2. Valuable Feedback and Suggestions for Improvement: Collaborating with influencers can provide hotels and resorts with valuable feedback and suggestions for improvement. Influencers are skilled at identifying what their followers are looking for in their accommodations and can provide valuable insights into what the hotel can do to enhance the guest experience continually.
3. Improved Guest Experience: Working with influencers can help improve the guest experience at the hotel. By providing valuable insights into what travellers are looking for in their accommodations, influencers can help hotels and resorts better understand their guests’ needs and preferences.

Influencers can play a significant role in writing hotel articles and reviews. They provide valuable insights into the various aspects of a hotel or resort, including the accommodations, amenities, food and service. Additionally, influencers can create engaging and visually appealing content that can attract a broader audience and provide valuable exposure for hotels and resorts. As a result, hotels and resorts can benefit significantly from working with influencers, as they can help improve their online visibility, reputation, and guest experience