Gotland Guide

Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, United Kingdom

Red Room

New York, USA

La Esquina Brasserie

Tokyo, Japan

Don-Don

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

- you book them just for the pool

Europe's most spectacular pool hotels

EAT & STAY

Summer in Europe

in Sweden

The Most Unique Spas

Beaches, Clubs, Hotels & Things to Do

Ibiza 

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

New Launch: August 2025

Zimbabwe

Mpala Jena Private Villas

for Your Next Long Haul Flight

Beauty Hacks

Luxury Travel on a Budget

How To:

for a Stress-Free Trip

Top 10 Travel Hacks

with 30% discount

Get Lounge Access

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Discover

10 things to do in Stockholm

Stockholm

Dog Friendly Dining

Eat & Do

Hidden gems in Marbella

Explore

Koh Samui

A Tropical Getaway

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Donostia / San Sebastián

Mesón Portaletas is highly regarded for its authentic Basque cuisine, especially its paellas and pintxos. The restaurant's commitment to using fresh, local ingredients and its traditional cooking methods have earned it a loyal following among both locals and tourists. The ambiance, blending historical elements with modern comforts, adds to the overall dining experience.

Mesón Portaletas: authentic basque flavors in the heart of donostia san sebastián 

Nestled in the historic old town of Donostia / San Sebastián, Mesón Portaletas is a must-visit destination for food lovers craving genuine Basque cuisine. This charming restaurant and bar offers a rustic-chic setting where medieval stone walls create a warm, inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements its culinary delights. From traditional tapas and bread-based pintxos to hearty paellas, Mesón Portaletas delivers an authentic taste of the region with a modern twist.

culinary highlights and dining experience

Mesón Portaletas is celebrated for its exceptional paellas, especially the seafood and mountain varieties. Unlike typical paellas, here the perfectly cooked rice serves as a base beneath a generous topping of fresh seafood and tender beef, creating a unique texture and flavor profile that surprises and delights. Beyond paella, the tapas selection shines with dishes like garlicky octopus pintxos and local red shrimp, paired beautifully with regional wines and cocktails. Whether you choose to dine inside or enjoy the outdoor seating, the ambiance is always lively and welcoming.

what visitors love about mesón portaletas

a fresh take that layers seafood and beef atop flavorful rice.

friendly staff who treat guests like old friends, accommodating special dietary needs seamlessly.

from pinchos to full-course meals including fresh seafood and decadent desserts like cheesecake.

outdoor seating, child-friendly menu, and NFC payments accepted for modern diners.

The local and visiting community regard Mesón Portaletas highly for its authentic Basque flavors and vibrant atmosphere. Guests repeatedly praise the quality of ingredients and the care in preparation, along with the attentive and welcoming service. While the majority of diners enjoy a seamless experience, some have noted occasional delays or inconsistencies in service speed. Overall, this beloved establishment stands out as a cornerstone of San Sebastián’s rich culinary landscape.

Does Mesón Portaletas accept reservations?

 Yes, reservations are accepted for the restaurant service.

Is there outdoor seating available at Mesón Portaletas?

 Yes, the restaurant offers outdoor seating for guests to enjoy the vibrant old town ambiance.

Are gluten-free options available at Mesón Portaletas?

 Many pintxos can be prepared gluten-free upon request, accommodating dietary needs.

What are the opening hours of Mesón Portaletas?

 The restaurant welcomes guests daily from 11:30 to 23:00.

Is parking available at Mesón Portaletas?

 Parking is available nearby, though finding a spot can sometimes be challenging.

Europe

Spain

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Donostia, Mesón Portaletas is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Basque cuisine. With its rustic-chic decor featuring medieval stone walls, this restaurant offers an inviting ambiance that beckons both locals and travelers alike. The moment you step inside, the aroma of sizzling seafood and spices envelops you, promising an unforgettable dining experience. Known for its exceptional **paellas**, this establishment is a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Spanish flavors.

At Mesón Portaletas, the menu is a celebration of local ingredients and traditional recipes. The standout dish, the **seafood paella**, is a vibrant medley of fresh seafood, including succulent shrimp and tender calamari, layered atop perfectly cooked rice. Each bite bursts with flavor, enhanced by a hint of saffron that transports you straight to the Mediterranean. Another must-try is the **roasted monkfish**, a dish that showcases the chef's skill in balancing textures and flavors, served with a side of seasonal vegetables that complement its richness.

Conveniently located at Portu Kalea, 21, Mesón Portaletas is just a stone's throw away from the stunning La Concha beach and the lively Old Town, known for its bustling tapas bars and charming streets. After enjoying a meal, take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront or explore the nearby historic sites, such as the San Telmo Museoa, which offers insights into the rich culture of the Basque Country.

 It is renowned for its delicious paellas and a variety of pintxos, showcasing the best of Basque cuisine.

 The combination of excellent food, warm hospitality, and a charming atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both casual dining and special occasions.

 La Concha beach and the San Telmo Museoa are just a short walk away, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and culture.

Whether you are a local or a traveler, Mesón Portaletas invites you to experience the flavors of the Basque Country. With its warm hospitality and exquisite dishes, it promises a dining experience that will linger in your memory long after your visit. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure—come and savor the delights of Mesón Portaletas today!

Tapas & bread-based pintxos, plus paellas, in a rustic-chic setting with a medieval stone wall.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMF82WTd3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_IAQE2lUQ0R8r6JPw-YoR4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNuMF82WTd3RRAB

A nice establishment with a spacious and clean looking ambience.

We came here looking to taste their paella as reviews have said this is a best place for it. We ordered the seafood and mountain paella for 2 people. It was prepared different and unique to other paella you will find. The rice was done and then the seafood and beaf was laid on top. The rice has a nice texture and the beef was excellent. To our preference, it was alittle on the salty side but not sure if that’s normal of paella.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIb1lQeU93EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_IAQE2lUQ0R8r6JPw-YoR4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIb1lQeU93EAE

It was by far the best place we have been to during our visit in San Sebastian. Not just the food, but the entire experience with the wines, desserts and alike. On top of these the greatest add-on was the hospitality: my husband could not eat the side dishes that contained milk (we forgot to ask this beforehand) so they replaced the entire course without asking. We were here three times and by the second occasion they treated us like old friends. Needless to say that the food itself was utterly delicious. (A big plus is that they speak proper English which does not seem to be that much common in San Sebastian.)

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIaUxiYmdnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_IAQE2lUQ0R8r6JPw-YoR4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNIaUxiYmdnRRAB

Great tapas display and view of old arch
Stopped briefly here for a snack and glass of local wine. Had the octopus tapa and it was delish but with a lot of garlic! Overall would recommend 👌

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyNmNELW5nRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_IAQE2lUQ0R8r6JPw-YoR4/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNyNmNELW5nRRAB

A lovely restaurant in the old town.  Made to feel welcome as soon as we came in.  You can either eat from the bar menu which is Pinchos or from the restaurant menu.
We chose the restaurant menu.  I had tomato salad with tuna belly, followed by roasted monkfish and my partner had the red  shrimps🦐 followed by the roasted turbot.  Both meals were excellent, could not fault them.  We decided as we were in the Basque region we couldn't go home without having the cheesecake and oh my what delicious cheesecake 😋.
The waiters were cheerful and attentive.
So glad we chose this restaurant for the last night of our holidays.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6OXVUMUdBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJu_IAQE2lUQ0R8r6JPw-YoR4/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN6OXVUMUdBEAE

Place to pop in if you have a hankering for paella. While it’s different in style from other parts of Spain, it’s fun to try. We were super hungry and was a solid way to start the day. The paella was beef and seafood combo. Good fresh ingredients. We ordered the local white wine to wash it down. While in San Sebastián - it’s best not to fill up too much in one place especially for those of us that are grazing and hopping from one place to next. So we stuck to a big paella that fed all 4 of us comfortably. Enjoy!

Mesón Portaletas: Best Paella & Tapas in Donostia

Mesón Portaletas, located in the historic Parte Vieja of Donostia, is renowned for its traditional Basque cuisine and has been serving locals and tourists alike for many years. The restaurant's name is derived from the 'Portaletas,' a historic archway that once served as an entrance to the old town, adding a unique charm to the establishment.

Dine In

Takeout

Outdoor Seating

Restroom

Parking

A variety of tapas, pintxos, and paellas.

Mesón Portaletas

Parking Options

Good for Groups

Good for Children

Serves Beer

Serves Wine

Serves Lunch

Serves Dinner

Serves Dessert

Serves Cocktails

Experience the rich flavors of Basque cuisine at Mesón Portaletas in Donostia. Our menu features a variety of pintxos, paellas, starters, main courses, and desserts, all crafted with fresh, local ingredients.

Pintxos Fríos

Pintxos Calientes

Menú Txuletón

Paella Negra con Pulpo y Txipirón

Paella Mar y Montaña

Paella de Bogavante

Croquetas de Hongo o Jamón

Jamón 100% Ibérico 5J D.O. Jabugo

Pan de Cristal con Tomate y AOVE

Gamba Roja Alistada a la Plancha

Calamares Fritos con Ali-Oli

Pulpo a la Parrilla con Crema de Patata Trufada

Ensalada de Tomate KM0 y Ventresca

Papas Bravas a Nuestra Manera

Tortilla de Bacalao

Ensalada Templada de Gambas y Calamar con Vinagreta de Mostaza

Rodaballo de Mar al Horno con Patata Panadera

Rape de Ración al Horno con Patata Panadera

Risotto con Langostinos y Setas de Temporada

Txipirones a la Plancha con Patata Panadera y Aceite de Perejil

Carrillera de Ternera al Vino Tinto con Puré de Patata

Solomillo de Vaca Madurado con Foie-Gras

Hamburguesa de Buey con Patatas (180g)

Txuletón de Vacuno Mayor Seleccionado

Ensalada Verde

Pimiento de Piquillo de Lodosa

Servicio de Pan de Hogaza

Tarta de Queso Cremoso al Horno

Arroz con Leche

Queso D.O. Idiazabal Ahumado con Membrillo y Nueces

Mesón Portaletas Menu

Experience the rich flavors of Basque cuisine at Mesón Portaletas, a gem nestled in the heart of Donostia / San Sebastián. This charming establishment expertly combines traditional recipes with fresh, seasonal ingredients to offer an unforgettable culinary journey. From their famous pintxos to hearty paellas, each dish reflects the vibrant spirit of the region and is crafted to delight discerning foodies and travelers alike.

Begin your meal with Mesón Portaletas' enticing selection of pintxos, a hallmark of Basque gastronomy. Choose from their cold pintxos featuring tender octopus, anchovies, tuna, refreshing salmorejo, savory fish pudding, and a delicious gratin of leek and shrimp. For a warm option, indulge in their hot pintxos assortment including spicy txistorra sausage, succulent red shrimp, and classic ham croquettes. Additional starters like creamy croquetas with mushrooms or Iberian ham and the renowned 100% Ibérico Jabugo ham add layers of flavor to your appetizer experience.

At the core of Mesón Portaletas’ menu are expertly crafted mains that celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage. Dive into the distinctive black rice with octopus and baby squid, or savor the unique mar y montaña paella that combines the bounty of the sea with succulent meats, artfully laid atop perfectly cooked rice. For a luxurious treat, the lobster paella is a standout, bursting with fresh flavors from the sea.

Seafood lovers will relish dishes such as grilled red shrimp, crispy fried calamari paired with a signature ali-oli, and grilled baby squid. Fish options include roasted turbot and monkfish, plus the tender grilled octopus served with truffle-infused potato cream. For those craving land fare, the menu offers exquisite cuts like the matured beef sirloin with foie gras, Iberian acorn-fed sirloin grilled to perfection, and the generous aged beef rib-eye. Complement your meal with fresh salads or the piquillo peppers from Lodosa, bringing bright, regional tastes to the table.

No Basque meal is complete without indulging in Mesón Portaletas' tempting desserts. Treat yourself to the creamy baked cheesecake, the comforting traditional rice pudding, or the smoky Idiazabal cheese served with quince paste and walnuts — a perfect balance of sweet and savory to end your dining experience on a high note.

Drinks and specials to complement every flavor

Pair your meal with a selection from the local wines and beers, which Mesón Portaletas serves alongside their fresh coffees and cocktails for a complete gastronomic experience. The restaurant's specials often highlight the best of seasonal produce and regional delicacies, ensuring every visit offers something unique and memorable.

 Nuestra selección de 6 pintxos fríos, Nuestra selección de 6 pintxos calientes, Croquetas de hongo o jamón, Jamón 100% Ibérico 5J D.O. Jabugo, Pan de cristal con tomate y AOVE

 Arroz negro con pulpo y txipirón, Paella mar y montaña, Paella de bogavante, Gamba roja alistada a la plancha, Calamares fritos y nuestro ali-oli, Pulpo a la parrilla con crema de patata trufada, Ensalada de tomate y ventresca, Las papas bravas a nuestra manera, Rodaballo de mar al horno, Rape de ración al horno, Arroz cremoso con langostinos y setas de temporada, Txipirones a la plancha, Carrillera de ternera al vino tinto, Solomillo de vaca madurado con foie-gras, Hamburguesa de vacuno con patatas, Solomillo 100% Ibérico de bellota “Beher” a la parrilla, Txuletón de vacuno mayor seleccionado, Ensalada verde, Pimiento piquillo de Lodosa

 Tarta de queso cremoso al horno, Arroz con leche, Queso D.O. Idiazabal ahumado con membrillo y nueces

Savor authentic Basque cuisine at Mesón Portaletas in Donostia. Delight your taste buds with unique flavors in a vibrant atmosphere. Book your table now!

Authentic Spanish Dining at Mesón Portaletas, Donostia

Donostia-San Sebastián Municipality

A selection of six cold pintxos including Gilda de antxoa, gratinado de pulpo, bonito con mayonesa, cesta de morcilla, foie caramelizado, and brioche de txuleta.

Pintxos & Tapas

Traditional Basque-style paellas such as Arroz negro con pulpo y txipirón, Paella mar y montaña, and Paella de bogavante.

Paellas 'A la Llauna'

A set menu featuring tortilla de bacalao, txuleton a la parrilla (400g approx), and tarta de queso casera.

discover mesón portaletas in donostia san sebastián spain the authentic basque culinary gem 

Nestled in the charming streets of Donostia / San Sebastián, Mesón Portaletas offers an immersive dining experience that seamlessly blends traditional Basque flavors with a rustic-chic atmosphere. This Spanish restaurant and bar is renowned for its exceptional variety of pintxos, tapas, and paellas, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers exploring Gipuzkoa.

exquisite offerings from pintxos to paellas

Mesón Portaletas presents a lively menu featuring a delicious assortment of cold and hot pintxos and tapas. Highlights include specialties such as the iconic Gilda de antxoa, gratinado de pulpo, and the indulgent txuleta brioche, perfect for sharing with friends or family while savoring local wines or craft cocktails.

 are another highlight, showcasing traditional Basque-style rice dishes such as Arroz negro con pulpo y txipirón, the rich Paella mar y montaña, and the luxurious Paella de bogavante. This unique preparation style features perfectly textured rice served with generous toppings of seafood and beef, offering a distinct taste adventure compared to other Spanish paellas.

a dining experience for all ages and occasions

Beyond its flavorful menu, Mesón Portaletas caters to diverse dining preferences with offerings for brunch, lunch, and dinner, accompanied by a fine selection of local wines, beers, and cocktails. The restaurant is family-friendly, providing a thoughtful children's menu featuring crunchy chicken fingers with fries and croquettes, ensuring younger guests also enjoy a delightful meal.

 offers a special treat for steak enthusiasts, featuring a 400-gram grilled txuleton (steak) served with traditional accompaniments. This menu requires a minimum of two persons and promises a hearty Basque feast that celebrates local culinary traditions.

ambiance and hospitality that make you feel at home

Set against a medieval stone wall, the rustic-chic decor of Mesón Portaletas creates a warm and inviting setting, perfect for groups, families, and solo adventurers alike. Guests often praise the spacious and clean ambiance, attentive service, and the genuine hospitality that makes every visit memorable — including accommodating special dietary needs with kindness and flexibility.

 - Situated at Portu Kalea, 21, in the heart of Donostia’s old town, offering easy access for both locals and tourists.

 - Dine-in, takeout available, with reservations recommended for larger groups to secure a spot in this popular venue.

 - Outdoor seating, restroom facilities, and payment options including NFC, credit, and debit cards make your visit smooth and comfortable.

Whether you’re craving a savory seafood paella, eager to explore authentic Basque pintxos, or seeking a welcoming spot to enjoy a glass of local wine, Mesón Portaletas delivers an unforgettable taste of San Sebastián’s rich culinary heritage. Its blend of traditional flavors, attentive service, and inviting ambiance make it a standout destination for any traveler or local looking to indulge in Spain’s vibrant food culture.

Discover Mesón Portaletas in San Sebastián 

Mesón Portaletas, set in the heart of Donostia’s old town, offers an inviting blend of traditional Basque flavors and a historic setting. Known for authentic Basque cuisine, this charming restaurant features delightful dishes such as seafood and mountain paellas, tapas, and bread-based pintxos, all served in a rustic-chic atmosphere enhanced by medieval stone walls.

Guests are drawn to Mesón Portaletas for its friendly and knowledgeable staff who provide attentive and personalized service. The establishment offers a spacious and clean ambience with outdoor seating options, perfect for enjoying San Sebastián’s vibrant street life. The menu is diverse, featuring gluten-free choices and hearty dishes that showcase fresh, local ingredients.

 that captures regional flavors with fresh seafood and meats.

 including tapas, paellas, and local wines to complement your meal.

 set against medieval stone walls that create a warm and inviting atmosphere.

 to enjoy the vibrant street views of San Sebastián.

While Mesón Portaletas delights many with its cuisine and ambiance, some visitors have noted inconsistencies in service speed and efficiency. Additionally, parking options near the restaurant are limited to paid lots, which may pose a challenge for those arriving by car. These factors may affect the overall dining experience for some guests, particularly during busy hours.

 reported by some diners, which can affect wait times.

Some patrons report service inefficiencies

 that may affect the dining flow during peak times.

La Viña

Ganbara

La Cuchara de San Telmo