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Donostia / San Sebastián

Arzak is renowned for its innovative Basque cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. Guests frequently praise the creativity and presentation of dishes, as well as the attentive service. The ambiance is described as intimate and elegant, set in a historic family mansion. Many reviewers highlight the unique dining experience and the opportunity to meet the chefs, Juan Mari and Elena Arzak.

Arzak: A Culinary Jewel in Donostia's Heartland.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Donostia / San Sebastián, Arzak is not just a restaurant — it’s a 

 that masterfully marries the rich traditions of Basque cuisine with imaginative, contemporary flair. Since 1897, this elegant family-run establishment has been a beacon for food lovers seeking an exquisite tasting menu experience in the heart of Gipuzkoa.

At Arzak, every dish is a vibrant canvas of flavors, meticulously crafted to highlight the finest local produce. Signature plates often showcase the delicate flavors of fresh seafood, tender lamb, and exquisitely prepared foie gras, all presented with artistic finesse. Guests frequently rave about the impeccable service where sommeliers expertly guide wine pairings, creating a seamless harmony of taste.

The atmosphere inside this historic mansion is intimate and elegant — a perfect setting for special occasions or for those who appreciate the art of fine dining in a refined yet welcoming space. The opportunity to interact with the famed chef-owner Elena Arzak adds a personal touch that enriches the overall experience.

Evening smart; men are expected to wear jackets.

Free parking lot and free street parking available for guests.

Highly recommended due to the restaurant's popularity.

 The dress code is evening smart, with men expected to wear jackets.

 Yes, free parking options include both a lot and street parking.

 Yes, due to its popularity, booking in advance is highly recommended.

The community around Arzak holds a deeply positive view of the restaurant, celebrating its innovative Basque cuisine that perfectly balances tradition with modern culinary artistry. Diners frequently commend the attentive and warm service, the elegant ambiance, and the chance to engage directly with the visionary chefs. This has earned Arzak the affectionate title of a culinary cathedral, a must-visit for food enthusiasts exploring Spain's gastronomic landscape.

Europe

Spain

Nestled in the heart of Donostia, Arzak is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary institution that has been delighting food lovers since 1897. This elegant, family-run establishment is renowned for its innovative take on modern Basque cuisine, seamlessly blending tradition with contemporary flair. As you step inside, the warm ambiance envelops you, setting the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. With three Michelin stars to its name, Arzak is a must-visit for anyone seeking a taste of culinary excellence.

At Arzak, every dish is a masterpiece, meticulously crafted to tantalize the senses. The tasting menu is a journey through the rich flavors of the Basque region, featuring standout dishes like the exquisite foie gras, which melts in your mouth, paired with a delicate fruit compote that adds a refreshing contrast. Another highlight is the lobster dish, where the seafood is prepared to perfection, showcasing the chef's skill in balancing flavors and textures. Each plate is not just food; it's a story, a piece of art that reflects the chef's passion and dedication.

One of the unique aspects of dining at Arzak is the opportunity to interact with the chef-owner, Elena Arzak, who often makes her rounds to engage with guests. This personal touch adds to the warmth of the experience, making diners feel like part of the Arzak family. The restaurant's commitment to sustainability is also noteworthy, as they prioritize local ingredients, ensuring that each dish not only tastes exceptional but also supports the community.

Located at Alcalde J. Elosegi Hiribidea, 273, Arzak is conveniently situated near the picturesque beaches of San Sebastián. After indulging in a memorable meal, take a stroll along La Concha beach or explore the vibrant old town, known for its pintxos bars and lively atmosphere. The stunning views of the Bay of Biscay provide a perfect backdrop to your culinary adventure.

 Arzak is renowned for its innovative Basque cuisine and has held three Michelin stars for its exceptional dining experience.

 Visiting Arzak offers a unique culinary journey where tradition meets modernity, making it perfect for food enthusiasts.

 After dining, explore the charming streets of San Sebastián, visit the local pintxos bars, or relax at La Concha beach.

Arzak awaits you with open arms and an exquisite menu that promises to leave a lasting impression. Whether you're a local or a traveler, make sure to reserve your table and experience the magic of Basque cuisine at its finest.

Elegant, family-run restaurant from 1897, with tasting menus specializing in modern Basque fare.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYanZxYUF3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk16VNUOlUQ0RN9deX3Lcna8/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNYanZxYUF3EAE

We had a fantastic meal here. Our only gripe was that it was over too quickly. The service was very friendly and I was very happy to get some advice on wines given that a full pairing would be too much.

All dishes were beautifully presented and incredibly flavorsome. For me the highlight was the foie grass but the lobster, lamb, and egg dish were equally impressive. Would highly recommend a visit to this excellent establishment.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIdGVQZDdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk16VNUOlUQ0RN9deX3Lcna8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIdGVQZDdnRRAB

Absolutely outstanding meal and service.
Expectations are always going to be high with Michelin and Price and they certainly didn't disappoint.
Literally from getting out of the taxi, front door was opened and top end service from every person we interacted with.
Elena Arzak came out twice and had a chat with us like she did with most tables which was a nice touch.

Every course was thoughtfully executed and stunning to look at aesthetically. Mostly fish dishes which is my preference and each dish was perfectly cooked.

Only very small critic, would have been nice if the homemade bread was warm and appreciate it's the atmosphere they are going for but some music in the restaurant would have been nice. Again our preference and may not be other peoples taste.

Overall a fabulous experience and perfect for a special occasion.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmcm9DaXhBRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk16VNUOlUQ0RN9deX3Lcna8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURmcm9DaXhBRRAB

I’m choosing such a low rating to draw attention and lower the overall high rating. I had been looking forward to dining at this restaurant for many years, and I was truly disappointed. The food was beautifully cooked using high-quality ingredients and techniques, of course, with the exception of the fish fillet, which was overcooked. However, at a 3-Michelin-star restaurant as renowned as Arzak in 2025, you expect much more. I had the tasting menu. Eating lobster, king prawn, fish fillet, and venison with a tasty sauce and a small twist is something that would have been celebrated in a Spanish restaurant in the 1980s. In contemporary gastronomy, you expect to be moved by a combination of tradition and innovation.

The only item on the menu that truly moved me was one of the amuse-bouches: the garlic soup croquette. It captured the warmth of a traditional Spanish hearty soup you’d enjoy in any village, bursting in your mouth in a second, filling it with warmth, flavor, and nostalgia. This was the level of emotion I expected from the rest of the menu.

The ambiance was also cold and basic. Our table was on the ground floor; I believe the first floor is slightly better, but still nothing exciting. I’ve had better experiences at 1-Michelin-star restaurants than this.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyM1piVW1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk16VNUOlUQ0RN9deX3Lcna8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURyM1piVW1RRRAB

I think of it as The Cathedral of great food. The tasting menu is varied throughout the year and always great. The wine list is a book and requires help, but the sumiller is there to help. The staff is great, discrete and warm all at once. And the chef-owner is amazing. A wonderful experience each of the four times I have eaten there. Great Cathedral!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuLTQtWjhRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJk16VNUOlUQ0RN9deX3Lcna8/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuLTQtWjhRRRAB

A classic of Spanish haute cuisine in San Sebastián. Very attentive service delivering unique experiences. The food is creative, with a clear basque influence, with elaborate presentations but letting the high quality produce take the centre stage. Perhaps the only improvement point from my view would be to avoid “contaminating” the essence of the restaurant and its long standing cuisine style with trendy elements like Japanese ingredients (e.g.- yuzu). They are great but perhaps don’t belong here.

Experience Arzak: 3-Michelin-Star Cuisine in Donostia

Arzak is a century-old family mansion in Alto de Miracruz, San Sebastián, Spain, housing the renowned Arzak restaurant. Founded by Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena, it has been a Michelin-starred establishment since 1974, currently holding three stars. The restaurant is celebrated for its innovative Basque cuisine, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques. The 'Laboratorio Arzak' within the building houses over 1,000 ingredients, serving as a 'flavour workbench' for culinary experiments.

Arzak: A Legendary Tale of Basque Culinary Excellence in San Sebastián Spain.

Nestled in the heart of San Sebastián's Alto de Miracruz neighborhood, the Arzak restaurant is housed in a stunning family mansion steeped in history and culinary innovation. This iconic establishment has been at the forefront of Basque gastronomy for over a century, captivating food lovers with its fusion of tradition and modern culinary artistry.

From Humble Beginnings to a Culinary Powerhouse

The story of Arzak begins in 1897 when the building was originally constructed as a wine cellar and tavern. It was a local gathering spot that embodied the spirit of Basque hospitality. In 1966, the visionary Juan Mari Arzak took the helm, transforming the family business into a beacon of culinary excellence that would soon earn international acclaim.

Arzak's commitment to culinary innovation and quality was recognized early on when it earned its first Michelin star in 1974. The restaurant's reputation soared over the years, culminating in the coveted third Michelin star awarded in 1989. This prestigious honor places Arzak among the elite dining destinations worldwide, a testament to its unwavering dedication to exceptional cuisine.

Arzak is not just a restaurant; it's a culinary laboratory where over 1,000 ingredients come together in a 'flavour workbench' known as the Laboratorio Arzak, established in 2000. Here, chef Juan Mari Arzak and his daughter Elena push the boundaries of Basque cuisine, blending traditional flavors with avant-garde techniques to create dishes that surprise and delight the palate.

 Building constructed as a wine cellar and tavern.

 Juan Mari Arzak took control of the restaurant, setting the stage for its transformation.

 First Michelin star awarded, marking Arzak’s entry onto the global stage.

 Third Michelin star awarded, solidifying its status as a top-tier culinary destination.

 Establishment of the Laboratorio Arzak for cutting-edge culinary experiments.

Arzak offers an extensive tasting menu with a wine-pairing option, and a set menu-style à la carte, with a choice of dishes that varies with the seasons.

Sea Bass with Green Shellfish Sauce

Roast Duck with Cacao, Dehydrated Orange, and Carob Turkish Delight

Arzak Menu

Arzak, a landmark of Basque haute cuisine nestled in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián, invites discerning diners to an extraordinary culinary journey. This family-run restaurant, established in 1897, boasts a meticulously curated menu that artfully blends traditional flavors with contemporary innovation, celebrating the rich gastronomic heritage of the region.

Arzak’s appetizers evoke the essence of Basque comfort, featuring creative and heartwarming bites such as their celebrated garlic soup croquette, an amuse-bouche bursting with nostalgic warmth and rich flavors that instantly captivates the palate.

 offers a masterclass in delicate seafood preparation, perfectly complemented by a vibrant green shellfish sauce that enhances every bite with oceanic freshness.

 is a signature dish that demonstrates Arzak's flair for marrying bold flavors and textures. The rich duck pairs harmoniously with the bittersweet cacao and zesty notes of dehydrated orange, finished with a delicate touch of carob Turkish delight that surprises and delights.

Conclude your meal with inventive desserts that embody the restaurant’s commitment to culinary artistry, blending traditional Basque ingredients with contemporary techniques for a memorable sweet finish.

Arzak’s extensive wine list is a connoisseur’s delight, with expert sommeliers available to guide you through pairings that elevate the flavors of each dish. Complement your dinner with craft cocktails, fine beers, or select coffee offerings for a well-rounded beverage experience.

Arzak offers an extensive tasting menu that changes seasonally, showcasing the freshest ingredients and inventive techniques that keep the experience dynamic and exciting. Guests can opt for thoughtfully paired wines, expertly chosen to complement each course and enhance the overall dining journey.

 that highlight the best of Basque ingredients and culinary creativity.

 curated to amplify the intricate flavors of each dish, enhancing your gastronomic adventure.

Experience culinary excellence at Arzak, a renowned restaurant in Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain, known for its innovative Basque cuisine.

Arzak: 5-Star Restaurant in Donostia, Spain

Donostia Municipality

Arzak

A seasonal seven-course tasting menu showcasing creativity and artistry.

Tasting Menu

A set menu-style à la carte, with a choice of dishes that varies with the seasons.

À la Carte Menu

Arzak, Donostia - A culinary beacon in Gipuzkoa, Spain.

Nestled in the vibrant city of Donostia / San Sebastián, Arzak stands as a shining example of exquisite Basque cuisine and modern culinary artistry. This family-run restaurant, operating since 1897, has evolved into an iconic gastronomic destination that beckons food enthusiasts and discerning travelers alike. Known for its elegant atmosphere and impeccable service, Arzak offers a truly immersive dining experience in the heart of Gipuzkoa, Spain.

Arzak’s culinary mastery is best experienced through their renowned tasting menu, a seasonal seven-course journey that highlights creativity and artistry with every plate. Priced at around 300 EUR, this menu is a celebration of modern Basque fare — meticulously crafted to delight all senses. For those who prefer more choice, the à la carte menu offers a set-style selection that changes with the seasons, showcasing fresh and local ingredients at their peak.

 at Arzak combines tradition with contemporary techniques, delivering elegant presentations and bold flavors that elevate Spanish haute cuisine to an art form.

 creates a warm and discrete ambiance, where guests feel cherished from the moment they arrive, making it perfect for special occasions and memorable gatherings.

 feature an extensive list, expertly curated to complement the tasting menus. The sommelier is always ready to guide you through an impressive selection that enhances your dining experience.

 Highly recommended to secure your table at this sought-after spot.

 Free parking is available both on the street and in a nearby lot, making it convenient for guests arriving by car.

 Accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC payments for easy and secure transactions.

 Not suitable for children, reflecting its sophisticated dining environment.

Whether you are a dedicated foodie seeking a bucket-list dining experience or a traveler eager to indulge in authentic Basque flavors, Arzak promises an unforgettable culinary adventure filled with inventive dishes and impeccable hospitality. It's a must-visit gem in San Sebastián's vibrant food scene, delivering a perfect blend of heritage and innovation.

Euskadi

Experience the exquisite Michelin-starred Arzak restaurant in Donostia, renowned for innovative Basque cuisine. Reserve your unforgettable culinary journey now!

Michelin-Star Arzak: Luxury Dining in San Sebastián

Explore Arzak in Donostia! Discover seasonal tasting menus, family traditions, and tips for an unforgettable dining experience. Reserve your table today!

Your Guide to Dining at Arzak, San Sebastián

Discover the rich history of Arzak, a 3-Michelin-star restaurant in San Sebastián, known for its innovative Basque culinary heritage. Learn more!

Experience Arzak: 3-Michelin-Star Cuisine in Donostia

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