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Donostia / San Sebastián

Ibai offers an unpretentious dining experience with fantastic fish dishes and nice wines that require reservations made in advance. The restaurant has a warm and friendly atmosphere, with a husband-and-wife team providing attentive service. Despite the lack of listed prices on the menu, guests find the bill reasonable considering the exceptional food quality. The seafood-focused menu offers unique items like squid stuffed with its own tentacles in black ink sauce. While communication can be challenging due to limited English spoken and cash-only payments, visitors praise the warm welcome from the lady owner but note that her husband may come off as surly. Overall, Ibai provides an unpretentious dining experience with fantastic fish dishes and nice wines that require reservations made in advance.

Nestled in the heart of Donostia, Spain, Ibai by Paulo Airaudo is a sanctuary for lovers of exquisite Basque cuisine. This intimate restaurant, located at Getaria Kalea 15, offers a refined dining experience where seasonal, locally sourced ingredients shine through artfully crafted tasting menus. With only six generously sized tables, each uniquely accompanied by its own 'cupboard', diners are treated to personalized, warm service that feels like being welcomed into a close friend's home.

Exquisite Flavors and Thoughtful Craftsmanship

Each dish at Ibai is a testament to the chef’s dedication to perfection, blending delicate flavors with impeccable presentation. Highlights include the world-class lobster and foie gras starters, a sublime truffle cheese amuse, and an osetra flan that masterfully balances salted caramel notes with a creamy texture. The menu also features standout items such as hake cheeks, fresh tuna, and the catch of the day, all thoughtfully prepared to deliver an unforgettable culinary journey.

The cozy dining room, with only six tables, creates an exclusive and intimate environment where attentive staff provide warm and genuinely caring service. The atmosphere encourages guests to relax and savor their meal at a leisurely pace, enhanced by a thoughtfully curated wine list featuring excellent values such as the Puligny Montrachet Aligoté. Whether you're enjoying coffee or dessert, Ibai ensures every moment is special.

What is the average price per person at Ibai?

 The average price per person is approximately €250, depending on the menu and wine selection.

How many tables are there in the dining room?

 There is a total of six impressively sized tables, each with its own 'cupboard'.

 There is no specific dress code; the focus is on enjoying the culinary experience comfortably.

 Yes, Ibai accepts Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and cash payments in euros.

 Ibai does not have private parking, but public parking options like Parking Buen Pastor are about 500 meters away.

Community Sentiment and Visitor Experience

Ibai enjoys predominantly positive reviews from discerning food lovers who praise its exquisite Basque cuisine, meticulous attention to detail, and the intimate, home-like atmosphere. Guests appreciate the chef’s skillful execution and the warm hospitality, which together create a memorable dining adventure. However, some note the higher price point and limited seating as factors to consider, emphasizing the importance of reservations and clear expectations regarding the exclusive environment.

Europe

Spain

Niché au cœur de Donostia / San Sebastián, le restaurant Ibai offre une expérience culinaire authentique qui célèbre la richesse de la gastronomie basque. Avec son ambiance chaleureuse et sa décoration élégante, ce lieu est idéal pour découvrir des saveurs locales tout en profitant d'une atmosphère conviviale et raffinée.

Le restaurant Ibai se distingue par ses plats emblématiques qui mettent en valeur la cuisine basque authentique. Parmi ses incontournables, ne manquez pas le txangurro, un crabe farci délicieusement épicé, ou encore la merlu à la plancha, servie avec une sauce piquante et des légumes frais. Les amateurs de tapas seront ravis par une sélection de pintxos créatifs, où chaque bouchée révèle une explosion de saveurs.

Le chef d'Ibai aime partager des anecdotes sur la préparation de ses plats, révélant un savoir-faire transmis de génération en génération. La cuisine est préparée avec des ingrédients locaux de saison, garantissant fraîcheur et authenticité. La présentation soignée et l'attention portée aux détails font de chaque plat une œuvre d'art culinaire.

Qu'est-ce qui rend le restaurant Ibai si spécial ? Sa capacité à allier tradition et innovation dans chaque plat, offrant une expérience culinaire authentique et mémorable.

Pour découvrir la cuisine basque authentique dans un cadre convivial, où chaque plat raconte une histoire et chaque saveur évoque la tradition locale.

Le restaurant Ibai est idéalement situé à Donostia / San Sebastián, à proximité de plusieurs attractions célèbres telles que la plage de La Concha, le vieux quartier et le mont Urgull. Ces sites offrent une immersion totale dans la culture locale et la beauté naturelle de la région, parfaits pour compléter votre expérience culinaire.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eUpISWN3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR5us31ClUQ0R8_XX9xRilCc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3eUpISWN3EAE

The only bad reviews seem to be those surprised by the price so let’s get that out of the way first- Ibai is expensive, with the base menu starting at 160€ per person even for lunch. But the chef got 2 stars in Argentina and delivers comparable quality at Ibai in a dining room of only 6 tables where they make you feel like you’re in someone’s home, in a good way. Service is warm and seems genuinely concerned with you having the best time possible. Food is exquisite with every dish being delicious unlike some other tasting menus that sacrifice taste for experimental wow factor. The lobster and foie gras starters were world class as were the truffle cheese amuse and osetra flan (think salted caramel vibes). Wine list was excellent and had some great values such as sold puligny Montrachet aligot at 63€.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6bTkteDFBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR5us31ClUQ0R8_XX9xRilCc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR6bTkteDFBRRAB

Had an incredible experience for lunch. Each dish was so beautifully crafted with detail and using the most wonderful ingredients. The highlights were the lobster, the foie gras, hake cheeks, the tuna and the fish of the day. Our cheese course was also divine and for desert we had the most creamy flan with a generous serving of caviar - perfect salty / sweet combination. The chef and his staff were warm and made our experience special for our trip to San Sebastián.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuek4zb2FBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR5us31ClUQ0R8_XX9xRilCc/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURuek4zb2FBEAE

The restaurant has good service and a nice chef, but it’s not worth it. You pay 160 euros for lobster, truffle, and caviar from Paris, and you sit in a room without windows, then have to use a strange, bodega-level toilet. The restaurant was empty, so maybe that’s the answer. The food was good, for sure, but for that money, you can have a more exciting and local experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvNXBheThnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR5us31ClUQ0R8_XX9xRilCc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNvNXBheThnRRAB

i understand the mixed review.  you're supposed to make a reservation first.  be nice and not too demanding. the couple is very nice.  the place is run by only 3 people, so so take your time and enjoy a nice wine or something.  you will be rewarded with the best products available.  they do simple cooking method but with perfect executions. what more can one ask?

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqa2F6b25BRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJR5us31ClUQ0R8_XX9xRilCc/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURqa2F6b25BRRAB

Reopened and with a more sophisticated menu mantains the old celebrated respect  and care for the product.
Will be back soon.

Restaurant Ibai à Donostia/San Sebastián : Saveurs locales au Cœur de la Ville

Ibai, located on Calle Getaria, 15, is a small bar with a highly esteemed restaurant below. The establishment is known for its tough reservation process but some have managed to secure a table by simply asking in person. The dining experience at Ibai offers fine cuisine without the formalities and frills of upscale restaurants. It's popular among chefs from other renowned eateries who appreciate its strong seafood menu featuring unique dishes like squid stuffed with its own tentacles in black ink sauce.

Ibai: A Basque Culinary Evolution in Donostia-San Sebastián 

Nestled in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián on Getaria Kalea 15, Ibai stands as a beacon of Basque culinary tradition with a modern twist. This acclaimed restaurant showcases an impressive journey from its origins as Bar Ibai to its present-day status as an innovative gastronomic destination. Ibai perfectly captures the spirit of the Basque Country, blending time-honored flavors with contemporary techniques.

In 2015, the establishment was known as Bar Ibai, a place cherished for serving authentic traditional Basque dishes. Under chef Alicio Garro, it gained a loyal following for its genuine flavors and approachable atmosphere. This period established Ibai as a respected name in the local culinary landscape, rooted deeply in the region’s gastronomic heritage.

A pivotal transformation occurred in 2025 when the restaurant was reopened as Ibai under the visionary chef Paulo Airaudo. His leadership infused the kitchen with a fresh perspective, elevating traditional Basque cuisine through refined techniques and exquisite ingredient selections. This evolution was recognized with Ibai earning its first Michelin star, a testament to its outstanding quality and innovation.

Ibai combines a limited seating arrangement, creating an intimate dining environment that feels more like a private feast in a welcoming home than a traditional restaurant. The menu is carefully curated, highlighting exquisite dishes such as lobster and foie gras starters, truffle-infused cheese amuse-bouches, and uniquely crafted flans with Osetra caviar that balance salty and sweet flavors perfectly.

 with a menu starting at 160€ per person, showcasing culinary artistry.

 from a dedicated team ensuring an unforgettable visit.

 with only six tables, creating an exclusive ambiance.

Ibai’s journey reflects the dynamic evolution of Basque cuisine, blending respect for traditional flavors with bold culinary innovation. It is a place where food lovers and trend-conscious travelers alike can indulge in a sophisticated yet heartfelt gastronomic experience, set against the backdrop of one of Spain’s most vibrant culinary cities.

Dine In

Restroom

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Allows Dogs

Ibai is a culinary gem in the heart of Donostia, Spain, celebrating Basque gastronomy with a focus on fresh local ingredients, particularly seafood. The inviting atmosphere and meticulous dishes create an unforgettable dining experience.

Ibai

Serves Lunch

Serves Coffee

Serves Dessert

Ibai is a culinary gem in Donostia, Spain, celebrating Basque gastronomy with a focus on fresh local ingredients, particularly seafood. The restaurant offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for romantic dinners or gatherings, complemented by a selection of Basque cider and curated wines.

Live Music

Ibai is a culinary gem in the heart of Donostia, Spain, celebrating Basque gastronomy with a focus on fresh local ingredients, particularly seafood. The inviting atmosphere and meticulous attention to detail make it perfect for romantic dinners or gatherings with friends.

Experience the essence of Basque cuisine with our meticulously crafted tasting menu, featuring seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

Caldo

Aperitivo

Salpicón de bogavante

Kokotxa trío

Carabinero a la parrilla con boletus

Callos

Txipirones en su tinta

Potxas con almeja o foie

Txangurro a la donostiarra

Boletus a la parrilla y papada ibérica

Patata confitada, huevo y trufa blanca

Pescado del día

Quesos artesanos

Flan ibai con selección oscietra kaviari

Petit fours

2025 Menu

Découvrez Ibai à Donostia / San Sebastián, un restaurant emblématique où saveurs authentiques et ambiance chaleureuse vous attendent. Réservez votre table dès maintenant !

Ibai à San Sebastián : Restaurant gastronomique côtier

Donostia Municipality

Enjoy traditional Basque pintxos at the bar, available from early morning hours.

Pintxos Bar

Curated wine pairings to complement each course of the tasting menu.

Wine Pairing

Découvrez Ibai à Donostia / San Sebastián, un joyau culinaire en Espagne.

Une expérience gastronomique authentique dans le Pays Basque.

Une dégustation de pintxos traditionnels basques.

Vivez une expérience authentique à la fois conviviale et raffinée, tout en découvrant la richesse de la culture basque à travers ses saveurs proposées dans une ambiance chaleureuse.

Situé dans la charmante ville de Donostia / San Sebastián, le restaurant Ibai vous invite à savourer une variété de pintxos authentiques, une spécialité incontournable du Pays Basque. Ces petites bouchées, disponibles dès les premières heures de la matinée, offrent une expérience culinaire unique qui ravira les amateurs de gastronomie locale.

Une sélection de vins pour accompagner chaque plat.

Profitez de dégustations de vins soigneusement sélectionnés qui complètent à merveille chaque plat, enrichissant ainsi votre expérience culinaire au cœur de la culture basque.

Sélection de vins pour accompagner chaque plat.

Venez vivre une expérience culinaire authentique dans un cadre convivial à Ibai, où chaque bouchée et chaque verre de vin sont une célébration de la culture basque.

Nestled in the heart of Donostia, Spain, Ibai offers an intimate dining experience that transports you directly into the world of refined Basque cuisine. With just six tables, this restaurant epitomizes exclusivity and warmth, providing a home-like atmosphere that complements its conceptual culinary artistry. The chef, a two-star Michelin talent from Argentina, brings a wealth of experience and creativity to each plate, making Ibai a must-visit for gastronomes seeking extraordinary flavors and impeccable service.

Intimate dining experience with only six tables

Exceptional Basque cuisine with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients

Warm and attentive service from a husband-and-wife team

Unique dishes like squid stuffed with its own tentacles in black ink sauce

Excellent wine list with well-priced selections

High price point, with tasting menu starting at €190 per person

Limited seating may require reservations well in advance

Cash-only payments may be inconvenient for some guests

Limited English spoken; basic Spanish or prior research may be necessary

No private parking; nearest public parking is 500 meters away

Ibai is ideal for couples seeking a romantic dining experience, culinary enthusiasts eager to explore the depths of Basque cuisine, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. The intimate setting and exceptional service make it a perfect choice for those who appreciate fine dining and exquisite flavors.

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating. Prepare for a culinary journey that may require a significant investment; the tasting menu starts at €190 per person. The restaurant embraces a cash-only payment policy, which may be a consideration for some guests. Furthermore, while the staff is friendly, a basic understanding of Spanish can enhance the experience.

In summary, Ibai stands out as a unique culinary gem in Donostia, where the combination of intimate ambiance, exquisite food, and personalized service creates an unforgettable dining experience. While it comes at a premium price, those who appreciate the artistry of fine cuisine will find their visit both rewarding and memorable.

The tasting menu starts at €190 per person.

Yes, reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating.

No private parking; the nearest public parking is 500 meters away.

Embark on a culinary adventure at Ibai, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and tradition. Ensure to book your table in advance and prepare for a taste experience that is both exquisite and memorable. Your journey into the heart of Basque cuisine awaits.

Euskadi

Découvrez Ibai, un restaurant exclusive à Donostia, connu pour ses plats de fruits de mer raffinés et son ambiance intime avec seulement 6 tables.

Ibai à Donostia / San Sebastián : Restaurant Basque Authentique

Savourez les délices de la cuisine basque authentique chez Ibai, un restaurant haut de gamme avec une expérience culinaire unique en son genre à Donostia.

Ibai, le Meilleur Restaurant de Fruits de Mer à Donostia

Réservez une expérience culinaire exceptionnelle à Ibai, situé au cœur de Donostia, pour découvrir les saveurs uniques et l'atmosphère chaleureuse.

Restaurant Ibai à Donostia/San Sebastián : Saveurs locales au Cœur de la Ville

Délices culinaires et spécialités

Une expérience sensorielle unique

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