La Cuchara de San Telmo, located in the Old Town of Donostia–San Sebastián, is one of the city’s most acclaimed pintxo bars and a reference point in contemporary Basque gastronomy. Situated near the San Telmo Museum and the Basílica de Santa María del Coro, it has gained a reputation for its refined small plates that combine traditional Basque flavors with modern culinary techniques.
Founded in the early 2000s by a team of young chefs trained in haute cuisine, the establishment helped redefine the concept of the pintxo—transforming it from a simple bar snack into a sophisticated miniature dish. The kitchen specializes in hot pintxos prepared to order, emphasizing the use of seasonal, high-quality ingredients. Among its most celebrated creations are the slow-cooked veal cheeks, foie gras with apple compote, grilled octopus, and mushroom risotto, each notable for its balance of texture and intense flavor.
The bar’s atmosphere is informal yet dynamic, with limited seating that encourages interaction between guests and chefs. Its open kitchen allows visitors to observe the precision and care behind each preparation, reinforcing the establishment’s commitment to craftsmanship and authenticity.
Posted on October 20, 2025
