Discover Narru Restaurant in the Heart of Donostia / San Sebastián.

Tucked away on San Martin Kalea, Narru Restaurant is a culinary gem that expertly reinvents traditional Basque cuisine with a modern twist. This sleek and contemporary venue in Donostia offers a refined dining experience that food lovers and trend-conscious travelers adore. Whether you're craving a formal sit-down meal or a lively evening sampling pintxos at the bar, Narru serves up exceptional dishes crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients.

A Unique Basque Culinary Experience

Narru’s menu is a celebration of Basque flavors, featuring expertly prepared seafood, meats, and seasonal vegetables. Diners rave about the "exceptional" quality of every dish, from the wild mushrooms appetizer to the famous Basque cheesecake, hailed as the best in town. This Michelin-level food paired with a thoughtfully curated wine list makes Narru a must-visit for anyone exploring San Sebastián’s vibrant food scene.

Narru’s name honors the chef’s great-grandfather, a professional pelota player, linking tradition and innovation in every bite.

Atmosphere and Service

Step inside the sleek dining room or enjoy the outdoor terrace, perfect for soaking up San Sebastián’s mild weather. The ambiance is both elegant and inviting, attracting foodies and locals alike. While most visitors praise the friendly and professional service, some note that during busy periods, service can feel a bit hurried and wine refills delayed. Still, the overall sentiment highlights attentive staff eager to pair your meal with the perfect drink.

Why Visit Narru?

Half Portions Available: Allows you to sample multiple dishes without overwhelming your palate.
Central Location: Just steps from San Sebastián Cathedral and inside the trendy Arbaso Hotel.
Versatile Dining Options: Choose between a sophisticated restaurant setting or the lively bar for informal tapas and cocktails.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours of Narru Restaurant? Narru operates from 7:30 AM to 11:30 PM Monday to Thursday and Sunday, extending to 12:30 AM on Fridays and Saturdays.
Is parking available at Narru Restaurant? Yes, there are several paid parking options including lots, garages, and street parking near the restaurant.
Does Narru Restaurant accept credit cards? Yes, credit and debit cards are accepted for your convenience.

Community Sentiment on Narru Restaurant

The local and visitor community holds Narru in high regard for its outstanding Basque cuisine, elegant ambiance, and versatile dining options. Guests appreciate the opportunity to order half portions to explore a wider range of flavors and the vibrant outdoor seating that shines during sunny days. Some note that service can occasionally feel rushed during busy times, yet the overall experience remains warm and satisfying, making Narru a beloved spot in San Sebastián’s culinary landscape.

Narru Restaurant history overview in san sebastián, spain.

Nestled across from the iconic Buen Pastor cathedral in the vibrant city of San Sebastián, Narru Restaurant embodies the rich culinary heritage of the Basque Country. Founded in 2019 by the talented chef Iñigo Peña, who honed his skills in some of the region's most prestigious kitchens, Narru pays homage to the chef's great-grandfather, a celebrated professional pelota player, through its distinguished name. This unique blend of tradition and modernity sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

milestones in narru's evolution

Since opening its doors in 2019, Narru quickly made a name for itself as a standout destination for Basque cuisine lovers. Just a year later, in 2020, the restaurant proudly received its first mention in the esteemed Michelin Guide — a testament to its exceptional quality and refined culinary approach. This recognition underscored Narru's commitment to excellence and authenticity in every dish.

Building on this momentum, Narru expanded its offerings in 2021 by introducing a thoughtfully curated tasting menu alongside its à la carte options. This evolution allowed diners to explore a wider range of flavors and seasonal ingredients, showcasing the chef's creativity and deep connection to Basque culinary traditions.

narru's cultural and culinary significance

Narru stands out not only for its exquisite food but also for its meaningful connection to Basque culture. The choice to honor Chef Peña's great-grandfather with the restaurant's name reflects a deep respect for local heritage, blending the spirit of traditional pelota—a beloved Basque sport—with contemporary haute cuisine. This fusion resonates with discerning visitors seeking a genuine taste of the region's identity.

2019 Narru Restaurant opened its doors in San Sebastián, marking a new chapter in Basque fine dining.
2020 The restaurant earned its first Michelin Guide mention, affirming its culinary excellence.
2021 The menu was expanded to include a tasting experience, enhancing its diverse culinary repertoire.

Narru Restaurant San Sebastián Overview

Nestled in the heart of Donostia-San Sebastián, Narru Restaurant offers an exquisite journey through Basque cuisine with a contemporary flair. Located on San Martin Kalea, this establishment combines a sleek, modern dining room with a lively outdoor terrace, creating an elegant and comfortable setting that appeals to food lovers and discerning travelers alike.

Exceptional Basque cuisine with modern twists

Narru excels by presenting traditional Basque dishes elevated with innovative touches. Diners rave about the quality of ingredients and the meticulous preparation, especially the wild mushrooms appetizer and the city’s best Basque cheesecake. The menu features a variety of seafood, meats, and seasonal specials, with an option for half portions to sample multiple dishes — perfect for the curious palate.

The tortilla de patata is freshly made and praised for its simplicity and quality, exemplifying the restaurant's dedication to authentic Basque flavors.

Service and ambiance

Narru’s staff are knowledgeable and generally attentive, helping guests navigate their meal and wine pairings with ease. The restaurant’s elegant interior and the vibrant outdoor seating provide a welcoming ambiance that suits both formal dining and relaxed socializing. The bar area, favored by some for its informal tapas menu, adds another layer of charm and flexibility.

However, some guests note that during peak hours, service can feel hurried initially and then sporadic, with long waits for wine refills and dessert. This might be a cultural nuance but could affect the overall dining experience for those used to more continuous attention.

Considerations on value and accessibility

Narru is positioned as a high-end dining destination in San Sebastián, with prices reflecting the quality of food, portion sizes, and presentation. While some visitors find the cost slightly higher compared to other local eateries, many agree the culinary excellence and atmosphere justify the expense.

Pros: Exceptional Basque cuisine with modern twists, attentive and knowledgeable staff, elegant and comfortable dining environment, option for half portions to sample a variety of dishes, vibrant outdoor seating area during pleasant weather.