From credible sources like The World’s 50 Best Restaurants and The Michelin Guide to the numerous YouTube influencers such as Mark Wiens and the Vagabrothers…Ganbara is a name you will hear over and over again. Located in the heart of San Sebastian, this beloved institution is sought out by both tourists and locals since opening its doors in 1984. Like many pintxos bars, the alluring bite sized treats are displayed all along the counter. This is where you will find the unmissable appetizer known as the Tartaleta de txangurro, a puff pastry tart topped with spider crab. Take note that many of the speciality dishes are found on their menus (some are unlisted and must be ordered directly from the staff) like their infamous Hongos y setas con foie (the wild mushrooms with foie gras). Expert advice: don’t forget to ask for it with a cracked egg on top.

As Bourdain once said, “Ganbara, my favorite place. I come here every time like a heat-seeking missile.” We couldn’t agree anymore. This culinary landmark was so impressive the first time we stepped foot through their doors in the summer of 2018, we were forced to return again this past February. The only differences were it wasn’t jam packed and their wildly popular mushroom dish was seasonally unavailable. However the scrabbled egg variation or revuelto de hongos y setas was a worthy replacement. The giant scarlet prawn certainly made up for the loss. Regardless of what time of year, if you are in San Sebastian, Ganbara is a must on any foodie’s checklist.

Pictured: Hongos y Setas con Huevo

Notable Mentions

The World’s 50 Best: “Walk in to the packed ground-level pintxos bar for casual bites or head to the cosy downstairs restaurant space for fine dining with a lively, family run feel.”

Michelin: “While the large staff has set the rhythm of service, the quality of its kebabs has taken it to the height of success. It is complemented by an intimate and quaint dining room in the cellar.”