Best Gambas a la Gabardina / Prawns in San Sebastian

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Verdict

A modern "atelier" that takes the pintxo experience and elevates it with sophisticated cooking and great drinks. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for a modern, cocktail-paired pintxo.

Price

$$$

Dietary

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Verdict

A very popular, stylish spot. The food is excellent, but it's also famous for its drinks and the social scene on the church steps. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for Gin & Tonics and premium pintxos.

Price

$$$

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Verdict

Often cited as one of the best 'modern' bars in the city. Their attention to detail and flavor balance is world-class. — San Martin Market

Queue

Go

1:30 PM; for modern award winners in the New Town.

Price

$$$

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Verdict

Dedicated almost entirely to anchovies. Try the 'Antxoa con Crema de Centollo' (anchovy with spider crab cream). — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for the city's undisputed anchovy kings.

Price

$$

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Verdict

A local favorite for their prawn skewers served with a secret, slightly spicy vinegar-based sauce. — Old Town

Queue

Go

7:30 PM; for the Brocheta de Gambas.

Price

$$

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Verdict

A high-end restaurant with an exceptional bar area. Their focus is on wood-fire grilling and seasonal Basque produce. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for a refined sit-down or bar experience.

Price

$$$

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Verdict

A historic spot that feels like an old-school bodega. Their 'Indurain' (tuna, anchovy, olives, peppers) is a city icon. — Gros

Queue

Go

1:00 PM; popular for its 'Indurain' pintxo.

Price

$$

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Verdict

A local favorite that serves a very high-quality Chuletón in a classic, white-tablecloth environment (or as pintxos at the bar). — Old Town

Queue

Go

1:30 PM or 8:30 PM; for a traditional Basque steak.

Price

37982$

Dietary

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Verdict

A great spot to enjoy a traditional Basque steak while overlooking the entire city and coastline. — Monte Igueldo

Queue

Go

Sunset; for steak with the city's best view.

Price

37982$

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Verdict

A classic spot famous for its perfectly battered prawns and mushrooms. A must-stop on any traditional crawl. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Afternoon; for the 'Gambas a la Gabardina'.

Price

$$

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Another made-to-order specialist. Their flavors are bold, rustic, and incredibly consistent. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Opening hours; it's standing room only.

Price

$$

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Verdict

A classic seafood house where the catch of the day is always fresh and simply prepared. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Afternoon; for seafood in the harbor.

Price

37982$

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Verdict

Despite the name, it's a serious food spot. Their seared foie gras is one of the most popular items in the entire Old Town. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for a lively, international crowd.

Price

$$

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Verdict

One of the oldest bars in the city (opened 1942). It maintains a beautiful counter of traditional items that represent the city's history. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Afternoon; for a classic counter experience.

Price

$$

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Verdict

While a fusion spot, their respect for the quality of local fish like turbot is evident in their innovative preparations. — Gros

Queue

Go

Evening; for a Basque-Mexican fusion take.

Price

37982$

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Verdict

A local secret known for its 'Brick de Bacalao' (crispy pastry filled with cod) and incredibly warm atmosphere. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Afternoon; for the 'Brick de Bacalao'.

Price

$$

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Verdict

The pioneer of modern, made-to-order pintxos. No cold items on the counter here—everything is hot and exceptional. — Old Town

Queue

Go

12:30 PM or 7:30 PM (Opening); it gets incredibly crowded.

Price

$$

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Verdict

No fancy plating here—just high-volume, perfectly fried prawns that many locals swear are the best in the city. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for the no-frills local favorite.

Price

$

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Verdict

A shrine to quality. While famous for pintxos, their sit-down restaurant is exceptional for seasonal grilled fish. — Old Town

Queue

Go

Evening; for high-quality seasonal fish.

Price

37982$

Dietary

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Verdict

A multi-award winner that blends traditional ingredients with creative presentation. More space here than in the Old Town. — Gros

Queue

Go

1:30 PM; for Gros's most award-winning bar.

Price

$$

Dietary