Petritegi Sagardotegia is one of the most famous traditional cider houses in the Basque Country and one of the best places to experience the unique atmosphere of a Basque sagardotegi. Located in Astigarraga, the town most closely associated with Basque cider production, Petritegi combines centuries-old traditions with excellent local gastronomy.
Traditional Basque cider houses are much more than restaurants: they are social gathering places where visitors share food, cider, and conversation in large communal dining rooms surrounded by enormous wooden barrels known as kupelas. During the cider season, which usually runs from January to late spring, guests regularly leave their tables when they hear the cry of “Txotx!” announcing that a barrel has been opened for tasting.
Making txotx refers to the tradition of opening a small wooden tap in the barrel so cider flows directly into the glass in a thin stream. Visitors approach the barrel with their glasses and catch a small amount of cider, which is traditionally drunk immediately while still fresh and slightly sparkling from the pour.
The classic cider house menu is simple and designed to accompany the natural Basque cider. At Petritegi, visitors can enjoy cod omelette, fried cod with green peppers, charcoal-grilled txuleta steak, and traditional Idiazabal cheese with walnuts and quince for dessert. The quality of the grilled meat is especially appreciated by regular customers.
Petritegi also produces its own cider and offers guided visits explaining the cider-making process and the history of Basque cider culture. Reservations are highly recommended during weekends and peak cider season. If you wish, you can choose a menu with a bottle of cider per person instead of Txotx option.
Revervations & more: https://www.petritegi.com/en/
Updated on May 10, 2026
