If you think San Sebastián’s pintxo culture exists only in the Old Town, get ready to cross the bridge and discover a universe of flavor. The Gros neighborhood, with its surfing soul and vibrant atmosphere, has established itself as the territory of innovation and quality. Here we present the definitive guide: the Top 10 best pintxos Bars in Gros. A tour to eat your way through the neighborhood, one bite at a time.
Forget the tourist crowds and mingle with the locals in the lively Zabaleta and Peña y Goñi streets. In Gros, the experience is authentic, the counters are full of life, and the kitchens never stop creating miniature marvels. Will you join us on this pintxos tour in Gros? Let’s go!
The Definitive Pintxos Map of Gros
So you don’t get lost, here is a map with our 10 strategic stops. The route is designed so you can comfortably walk from one to the next.
The Top 10 Best Pintxos Bars in Gros: The Must-Try Spots
1. Bodega Donostiarra
- Address: Calle de Peña y Goñi, 13
- The Soul of the Neighborhood: This is the quintessential meeting point. A classic that never fails, with a spectacular atmosphere at any time of day. Its fame is well-deserved.
- Star Pintxos: You have to try the “Indurain” (a skewer with chili pepper, anchovy, tuna, and an olive). But the real magic lies in its hot mini-sandwiches and portions: the “Completo” with bonito tuna, chili peppers, and anchovies is sublime, and its Spanish omelet is juicy and perfect.
- https://www.bodegadonostiarra.com/
2. Bar Bergara
- Address: Calle del General Artetxe, 8
- Pintxo Haute Couture: If you’re looking for sophistication and award-winning pintxos, this is your place. Bergara is elegance and avant-garde, boasting one of the most spectacular counters in the city.
- Star Pintxos: The “Txalupa” (a gratin of mushrooms and prawns) is its most iconic creation. Don’t miss the “Carrillera de ternera” (veal cheek) or the anchovy omelet either. Pure delight.
3. Ramuntxo Berri
- Address: Calle de Peña y Goñi, 10
- Tradition with a Modern Twist: Right across from Bodega Donostiarra, Ramuntxo Berri offers a more current take on traditional cuisine. A cozy spot with a counter that will make you fall in love.
- Star Pintxos: Their “Chipirón plancha” (grilled baby squid) with caramelized onions is a true marvel. They are also famous for their “Ravioli de rabo” (oxtail ravioli) and prawn skewer.
4. El Lobo
- Address: Calle Zabaleta, 24
- Fusion and Good Vibes: With a more daring and modern proposal, El Lobo fuses Basque cuisine with touches from other cultures. A breath of fresh air on the pintxos scene.
- Star Pintxos: The “Taco de cordero” (lamb taco) and the “Bao de txistorra” (a bao bun with spicy sausage) are two of its most celebrated creations. If you’re looking for different and surprising flavors, this is your bar.
5. Bar Zabaleta
- Address: Calle de Zabaleta, 51
- The Temple of the Omelet: If you are a fan of Spanish omelet (tortilla de patatas), you have a pilgrimage to make to Bar Zabaleta. Its fame precedes it, and the lines at the door confirm it.
- Star Pintxo: The answer is obvious: its pincho of tortilla de patatas. Juicy, runny, perfect. It’s made several times a day and sells out in minutes. Pay attention to the serving times!
6. Casa Senra
- Address: Calle de San Francisco, 32
- The Endless Counter: If you like to choose with your eyes, you will be fascinated by the counter at Casa Senra. It is one of the longest and most varied in Gros, packed with elaborate cold pintxos.
- Star Pintxos: The “Brocheta de pulpo y langostinos” (octopus and prawn skewer) is a classic. Their hot casseroles, like the “Hongos con foie” (mushrooms with foie gras), are also outstanding.
7. Garbola
- Address: Calle de Peña y Goñi, 15
- The Wine Corner: Garbola isn’t just a pintxos bar; it’s a wine bar with excellent pintxos. The perfect place for oenophiles who want to pair great wines with bites to match.
- Star Pintxos: Their “Huevo a baja temperatura” (slow-cooked egg with potato purée and truffle) is scandalous. Their mini “Burger de chuleta” (steak burger) is also a winning choice.
8. Bar Desy
- Address: Paseo de Colón, 27
- The Original Gilda: Although it’s a simple and traditional bar, Desy holds the honor of being a temple for “La Gilda,” a strong candidate for the first pintxo in history.
- Star Pintxo: “La Gilda,” of course. The perfect combination of anchovy, olive, and chili pepper. They prepare it here with a master’s touch. Simple, salty, addictive.
9. La Gintonería Donostiarra
- Address: Calle Zabaleta, 6
- More than Gin & Tonics: Don’t let the name fool you. Besides being one of the best places for a drink, its kitchen offers modern and delicious pintxos in a chic atmosphere.
- Star Pintxos: Try their “Steak tartar” or the “Talo de rabo de toro” (oxtail talo). These are more elaborate pintxos, perfect for a light dinner or to start the night in style.
10. Bar Ezkurra
- Address: Calle Miracruz, 17
- The Definitive Russian Salad: Another neighborhood bar, one of the old-timers, that hides a culinary treasure. Its fame is due to a single, legendary specialty.
- Star Pintxo: Its “Ensaladilla rusa” (Russian salad). For many, the best in all of San Sebastián. Creamy, flavorful, with just the right ingredients. Ordering a portion to share is almost an obligation.
Expert Tip: After treating your palate to this tour, you deserve a digestive stroll. We recommend walking towards the end of the beach to admire the avant-garde architecture of the Moneo Towers (Kursaal), an icon of the San Sebastián skyline.
Conclusion: Gros, the Beating Heart of Donostia’s Flavor
Gros has more than proven to be much more than just “the other neighborhood.” It is a top-tier gastronomic destination with a unique personality and a pintxo offering that perfectly combines tradition and innovation. This list is just the beginning. The best thing you can do is get lost in its streets, enter a bar that catches your eye, and let yourself be surprised.
And now it’s your turn. Do you think we missed an essential stop in this Top 10 of pintxos in Gros? What’s your favorite? Tell us in the comments!
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