Do’s and don’ts in Basque Bars and Restaurants
Do your research
Each pintxo bar usually has a few dishes they are especially famous for. While we think keeping it spontaneous is part of the fun, knowing what to order where is helpful in making sure you try the very best of each spot.
Don’t skip the menu board
Some of our favorite pintxos are made to order, and these daily specials will usually be written on the blackboard positioned behind the bar. Change it up from the counter options and pick out one of the gems from the written menu. And never hesitate to ask the bartender for their recommendation.
Don’t overload your plate
Visitors are often tempted to load up on a wide assortment of pintxos on their plate, and while we understand the excitement this is a sure way to fill up fast. Do as the locals do, order 1-2 pintxos to try and keep it moving to your next spot.
Don’t expect to sit
Don’t expect to find a seat or barstool in typical pintxo bar. Most pintxo bars are standing room only, making any extra room a very hot commodity and elbowing your way through bars an expected part of the visit. If the bar area isn’t full when you arrive, it likely will be soon. For this reason, we recommend making sure you keep your group close together. This will make ordering from the bar, and hearing each other talk, much easier. To avoid the crowds try come just after opening.
* If a pintxo bar take reservations it’s because they probably have a restaurant area where they expect you to have a normal meal.
Do use local lingo
Try using phrases in Basque or Spanish.
To express thanks:
“Eskerrik asko ” in Basque, “Gracias ” in Spanish
To say goodbye:
“Agur” in Basque, “Adios” in Spanish
To say cheers:
“¡Topa!” in Basque, “¡Salud!” in Spanish
Do skip the sangria
Sangria is not the drink to order when you’re in the Basque Country. While pintxo hopping, we recommend ordering a glass of txakoli (young and dry sparkling wine), cidra (local cider), or a zurito (a small glass of beer). Of course, you can’t go wrong with a txikito (small glass of wine) and any of these local options will be a refreshing complement to your tasty bites.
*If you don’t drink alcohol, no worries at all. You will find different non-alcoholic options in the bars like water, juices, sodas etc. Local must do is mosto (grape juice). They have alcohol free beers in all the bars. Sometimes you will find 0% wines and spirits!
Don’t forget to ask how to pay
While you’re ordering, we recommend asking the server when you should pay. Some bars prefer tourists pay immediately after they’ve ordered, while others will keep a running tab open. Being upfront and asking as you place your order is the best way to clarify this and mitigate any confusion as the night goes on.
Do know the sign of a good waiter
The sign of a good waiter in Spain is one that leaves you alone until you call for them. Keep this in mind when you’re trying to catch the attention of your server during or at the end of your meal. Catching their eye and saying “perdon,” excuse me in Spanish, will go a long way in getting their attention.
Don’t avoid tipping
When dining out for pintxos, we suggest rounding up the bill to the nearest dollar for a positive experience. For excellent service or fine dining, around 10% tip is customary and always appreciated by staff. The amount you decide to tip is entirely up to you and tipping is not mandatory.
Try our San Sebastian Sightseeing and Pintxo tour on your first day in the city! You will discover San Sebastian from east to west, learn about the Basque culture and enjoy in depth course on how to find best bars, choose yummy pintxos and rock in local bars!