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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.

scopri ibai a donostia / san sebastian: un gioiello della cucina basca autentica

un'esperienza culinaria intima e raffinata

Nel cuore di Donostia / San Sebastian, Ibai si distingue per la sua cucina basca sofisticata, realizzata con ingredienti di altissima qualità. Con soli sei tavoli, questo ristorante offre un'atmosfera intima e un servizio personalizzato, perfetto per chi cerca un'esperienza gastronomica esclusiva.

piatti distintivi e vino di prima qualità

Il menu si concentra su incredibili piatti di pesce, come la particolare anguilla e il calamaro ripieno, serviti con vini selezionati che completano perfettamente ogni portata. La cucina, guidata dallo chef Paulo Airaudo, incanta per la sua semplicità e perfezione nel gusto.

Per chi desidera un'esperienza culinaria di alto livello a Donostia, Ibai è il luogo ideale. La spesa media si aggira intorno ai 250€, un prezzo che molti considerano giustificato dalla qualità eccezionale delle portate e dalla cura nei dettagli.

Il ristorante offre opzioni vegetariane e un'atmosfera calda e accogliente, con un team di gestione familiare che si prende cura di ogni dettaglio. La lista dei vini, ricca e ben curata, aggiunge un tocco di classe alla serata.

Europe

Spain

Situato nel cuore di Donostia / San Sebastián, Ibai è un ristorante che incanta con la sua atmosfera autentica e un menu ricco di sapori tradizionali baschi. Questo locale rappresenta un punto di riferimento per chi desidera immergersi nella cultura gastronomica locale, offrendo un’esperienza culinaria che unisce tradizione e innovazione.

Il menù di Ibai si distingue per piatti che celebrano i sapori autentici della cucina basca. Tra le specialità, spiccano il 

, un piatto che unisce tradizione e gusto in modo impeccabile.

Il ristorante ha una storia radicata nella tradizione locale, con un team di chef che tramanda ricette di generazione in generazione. Un aneddoto interessante riguarda la creazione dei suoi piatti più iconici, spesso ispirati alle ricette di famiglia e perfezionati con un tocco di innovazione moderna.

 Il piatto più rinomato è il bacalao alla vizcaína, un classico che rappresenta perfettamente la tradizione culinaria di San Sebastián.

 Offre un’esperienza autentica della cucina basca, in un ambiente accogliente e ricco di storia, perfetto per gli amanti del buon cibo e delle tradizioni locali.

 La posizione centrale di Ibai permette di esplorare facilmente le meraviglie di Donostia / San Sebastián, tra cui la Playa de la Concha e il Monte Urgull, ideali per una passeggiata dopo un delizioso pasto.

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.

Ristorante Ibai a Donostia: Esperienza gastronomica unica in San Sebastián

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

Menu delizioso e raffinato al cuore di Donostia

Il nostro menu inizia con una selezione di antipasti che deliziano il palato, tra cui il "Salpicón de bogavante" con aragosta e dressing agli agrumi, e il "Kokotxa trío" con le delicate guance di merluzzo. Assapora anche il "Carabinero a la parrilla con boletus" per un tocco di mare e terra, oppure prova i "Txipirones en su tinta" con il loro ricco sugo di inchiostro. Per chi preferisce opzioni più ricche, i "Potxas con almeja o foie" offrono un equilibrio perfetto tra mare e campagna, mentre il "Txangurro a la donostiarra" porta la tradizione basca nel piatto con un tocco di eleganza.

Per il piatto forte, il "Pescado del día" garantisce un'esperienza di freschezza e sapore autentico, preparato con cura secondo le stagioni. Gli amanti dei formaggi apprezzeranno la nostra selezione di "Quesos artesanos", perfetti per accompagnare un calice di vino locale. La nostra cucina mette in evidenza la semplicità con la massima perfezione, offrendo piatti che esaltano gli ingredienti di alta qualità senza eccessi.

Concludi il tuo pasto con il nostro "Flan ibai con selezione oscietra kaviari", un dolce cremoso arricchito dalla salinità del caviale, o con i "Petit fours" per un tocco di dolcezza raffinata. La nostra selezione di vini, tra cui il delizioso Puligny Montrachet, completa perfettamente ogni esperienza culinaria, offrendo abbinamenti che elevano ogni morso.

Scopri Ibai a Donostia/San Sebastián: un ristorante autentico con sapori irresistibili e atmosfera accogliente. Prenota ora e vivi un’esperienza culinaria indimenticabile in Spagna!

Ibai: Elite Dining in Donostia, Basque Flavors!

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

scopri ibai a san sebastian: un viaggio nel cuore del basco autentico 

Nel vivace contesto di Donostia / San Sebastián, Ibai si distingue come un vero e proprio santuario del gusto, offrendo un'esperienza culinaria che celebra le tradizioni basche. Questo ristorante è il luogo ideale per chi desidera immergersi nelle atmosfere autentiche e gustare alcune delle migliori specialità locali.

A partire dalle prime ore del mattino, il Pintxos Bar di Ibai invita gli ospiti ad assaporare le tradizionali tapas basche, chiamate pintxos, in un ambiente informale e accogliente. Ogni boccone è un'esplosione di sapori autentici, perfetta per un brunch o un aperitivo.

Per un'esperienza completa, Ibai propone abbinamenti di vini accuratamente selezionati, pensati per valorizzare ogni portata del menu degustazione. Un modo raffinato per scoprire i vini locali e immergersi completamente nei sapori della regione.

 - un'esperienza culinaria immersiva, con piatti e pintxos preparati secondo le ricette tradizionali.

 - vini locali scelti per accompagnare perfettamente i piatti, esaltando ogni sapore.

Vieni a scoprire il fascino autentico di Ibai, dove la tradizione incontra l'innovazione, regalando un'esperienza gastronomica indimenticabile nel cuore di San Sebastián.

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

Discover Ibai in Donostia, Gipuzkoa for exquisite Basque seafood and intimate ambiance. Reserve now for a unique culinary journey.

Ibai Restaurant Donostia - Top Basque Dining & Seafood Experience

Enjoy exceptional dishes at Ibai, located in Getaria Kalea, Donostia. Book your table for a memorable Basque culinary experience with top wines.

Ibai Donostia: Exclusive Basque Gastronomy & Seafood

Learn about Ibai in Donostia, a renowned restaurant offering authentic Basque seafood, warm service, and a cozy atmosphere in Gipuzkoa, Spain.

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