The city’s cuisine is based on the principles of the Basque culinary tradition, which emphasizes the use of fresh, high-quality ingredients and simple, yet flavorful preparations. Here are the top three dishes that San Sebastian is famous for:

• Pintxos: You must try this while you stay in San Sebastian.  Pintxos are small, bite-sized dishes that are typically served on a piece of bread and they are delicious. They are the Basque version of tapas and are a popular snack or appetizer in bars and restaurants throughout San Sebastian. Some popular pintxos include Gilda (a skewer with olive, anchovy, and pickled pepper), tortilla (the authentic Spanish omelet), and croquettes.
• Txuleta: Txuleta is a type of beef steak that is a specialty of the Basque Country. The beef is sourced from local farms and is aged for several weeks to enhance its flavor and tenderness. It is typically cooked over an open flame, resulting in a charred, crispy exterior and a juicy, tender interior.
• Basque-style fish dishes: As San Sebastian is a coastal town, it also means that it has access to a wide variety of fresh seafood. Basque-style fish dishes are a specialty of the region and include dishes such as marmitako (a tuna and potato stew), merluza en salsa verde (hake in green sauce), and kokotxas (hake cheeks). These dishes highlight the simplicity and freshness of the ingredients and are a must-try for seafood lovers visiting San Sebastian.