San Sebastián, also known as Donostia, is one of the most beautiful cities you will ever visit. Located on the Bay of Biscay, near the French border, this city is complete with beautiful ocean views and an enticing Old Town center. The small streets are lined with various bars to enjoy pinchos and wine. Hop from one bar to the next, rubbing shoulders with locals and tourists alike.
Looking for vegetarian, vegan, and or gluten-free options in San Sebastián, Spain? Here are a few recommendations.
1. Bar Azkena
Located inside the Mercado la Bretzka, this small bar offers up a variety of gluten-free options. Enjoy gluten-free pinchos or a homemade tortilla española. Be sure to visit in the morning or early afternoon as Bar Azkena is not open during the evenings.
Belly up to the bustling bar serving creative Spanish pinchos, or enjoy traditional Basque cuisine in the dining room. Although there were no vegan options here, I did enjoy a delicious tortilla española with gluten free bread. The bartenders will make any of their creative, delicious pinchos gluten-free. Just ask!
*Travelers tip: Try the white wine “Raventós D Alella Pansa Blanca”
3. Green Break Vegan Take-Away
This 100% vegan restaurant has an extensive menu with the option to dine-in or take-away. The service was friendly and the workers are well-informed regarding vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free diets. I enjoyed a vegan, gluten-free burrito and of course a plate of bravas with a vegan alioli!
I wanted to love this place. Located next to Urumea river, this cozy cafe offers gorgeous seating, both indoors and outdoors, to enjoy a coffee and a vegetarian snack. The fallback? Despite the peaceful ambiance, the service was slow and the workers were impolite. We ended up not staying as we were never served, but I would like to think Kafe Botanika was just having an “off” day. It’s cute enough that I would give it a second chance!
Regardless of where you stop for lunch or pinchos and wine, you are guaranteed to enjoy your visit. Can’t beat these views of San Sebastián’s famous La Concha Beach!