San Sebastian Travels - Culinary Nation

Tortilla from Bar Nestor - go early to avoid disappointment

First off a big thank you to Seetal and Raj for their recommendations and info on where to go in San Sebastian.
http://www.savlafaire.com/top-10-pintxos-bars-san-sebastian/ 

For a birthday surprise and treat for my dad, the family (seven adults and two children) went to San Sebastian. Dreams were made a reality by some forward planning and a gentle nudge by my cousin too.

Why was this a dream for my dad (and Me)? San Sebastian is know by many as the Foodie capital of the world or as the airport likes to state, San Sebastian is THE Culinary Nation. A key reason is due to the fact that the city is host to the most Michelin starred restaurants per capita. I think, the last count was at 11, 3 starred restaurants.

As well as the Michelin starred restaurants,, San Sebastian is known for its Pintxos bars. These bars serve Pintxos (their version of Tapas) all over the city and customers are treated to hand held delights in all varieties.
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What I expected:
Well initially, my mind was fixed on pintxos (the Basque version of Tapas). Rows and rows of food laid out for your delight. From jamon to croquettes, but what we got was so much more.

What I got:

• Amazing steak (Tuxleton - 18 year old cows cooked to perfection)
• Unbelievable cheesecake - baked and burnt to delight
• Tomato Salad - so simple but so good. Tomato, Salt and oil = WINNING
• Tortilla - Go to Bar nestor for this. Worth the early order. Melt in the mouth
• Great seafood - from cod sandwiches to fresh oysters and more
• Gilda (Peppers, anchovies and olives on a skewer) This was everywhere, a local delicacy it seems. The skewer is to be eaten in one and provides a salty and spicy bite.
• Cheap alcohol - no need for heavy pints, sip on some lovely Rioja or Sangria and just chill out.

What I loved, is that the whole environment and atmosphere in the city was very relaxed. It was bustling and crowded, but everyone seemed happy and jovial. I will try to keep smiling as much as those in the Basque country.

I won't waste too much time with recommendations as Seetal's blog further up does that for you.
This one - http://www.savlafaire.com/top-10-pintxos-bars-san-sebastian/ ​
But a few standouts are:

1. Bar Nestor = Tortilla and Steak
2. Paco Bueno = great drinks, atmopshere and tasty Pintxos, seafood omelettes, sandwiches and more
3. La Txuleteria del Iraeta - no menu, just Txuleton steak, tomato salad and Padron peppers

So So good. These are must visit places; and if money isn't an issue, do go to one of the many Michelin starred restaurants.

Pintxos selection

What a city. What an amazing trip. Foodie delight. Amazing city and culture. A lovely beach.
San Sebastian, thank you for a lovely few days.