Last Updated on July 15, 2026 by Emma Fajcz | Published: July 19, 2017
The Amara area is one of the newest neighborhoods in San Sebastián. Located south of the center, along the River Urmea, it’s a quieter, more local area that’s also the perfect place to explore the city’s innovative cuisine. Here’s where to eat in San Sebastián’s Amara neighborhood.
While there are not many sights in Amara, it is a great place to stay in San Sebastián, especially if you are in town for a football match. Situated far off the well-trodden tourist area of the city, it can be a bit of a walk to the center.
However, this is the neighborhood for you if variety and authenticity are a top priority when looking for where to eat in San Sebastián. Here are our favorite restaurants in the Amara neighborhood for you to explore.
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Bar Restaurante Casa Javier
Restaurante Casa Javier is the perfect spot for anyone unsure where to eat in San Sebastián’s Amara neighborhood. With a location near the train station, it is surrounded by touristy establishments. However, this spot is authentic and full of delicious bites.
Having first opened its doors back in 1967, Casa Javier has evolved into a modern gastro-bar. But, the exposed brick walls, sleek white bar, and pictures of old steam trains on the walls make for a cozy feel not usually found in modern establishments.
You’ll find classic pintxos along the bar, as well as larger tapas plates to share and a menu of the day. Dishes include black rice made from squid ink served with alioli (a garlic mayonnaise), Vizcayan-style cod fish or steak with green peppers.
📍 Address: Easo Plaza, 4
Restaurante Amelia
Restaurante Amelia is a modern fine dining spot serving the avant-garde cuisine San Sebastián has become so famous for. Head chef Paulo Airaudo was born in Argentina to a family of Italian immigrants. Having worked in Michelin star restaurants in San Sebastián, London and Italy, he decided to create his own restaurant.
His pairing and tasting menus feature beautifully-presented dishes. They use local Basque ingredients inspired by the Italian kitchen. Think plates of white asparagus with mussels, pannacotta and salmon eggs, or lamb with eggplant, tomatoes and spinach.
📍 Address: Moraza Kalea, 1B
Don Rico
Right at the point where the river turns back down towards the city sits Don Rico. This welcoming neighborhood café and restaurant blends Basque hospitality with Italian-inspired comfort food, and is a popular spot for breakfast, brunch, and coffee.
Don Rico is known for their freshly made focaccia sandwiches, artisanal pizzas, homemade pasta, and generously topped brunch plates. It’s the perfect place for a casual lunch or a leisurely weekend brunch.
📍 Address: Pl. de Irún, 20011
Sutan Dago
Sutan Dago is a modern, chef-driven eatery that specializes in creative, seasonal Spanish cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Originally established as a gourmet takeaway kitchen, it has become a favorite for both takeout and dine-in meals, offering everything from expertly prepared rice dishes and slow-cooked meats to inventive vegetarian options and weekly changing menus inspired by Basque and Mediterranean flavors.
Sutan Dago is well known for their creamy lobster rice (arroz meloso de bogavante), braised beef cheek rice, and beautifully prepared daily specials. You’ll appreciate their friendly service, attention to detail, and their commitment to sustainable, high-quality cooking.
📍 Location: Otamendi Anaiak 3, Riberas de Loiola
Bederatzi
Bederatzi is a relaxed neighborhood pintxo bar that has quickly become a local favorite for creative Basque small plates made with high-quality ingredients. They showcase modern Basque flavors in sandwiches, pintxos, and pizzas that locals love!
You’ll love the fresh ingredients, generous portions, and creative twists on classic pintxos here at Bederatzi. It’s the perfect hidden gem that’s well worth leaving the Old Town to experience!
📍 Location: De Felipe IV Hiribidea, 9
Looking for more restaurants to try? Here’s our 7 favorite restaurants in San Sebastian without a Michelin star.
Waiting to Go on a Pintxo Crawl?
Book a spot on our San Sebastián Pintxos & Wine Tour in the Centro neighborhood for an authentic local experience you won’t soon forget! Enjoy 9 bites and 4 drinks across 5 small businesses, which is enough food for a full, delicious dinner. Escape the crowds in the Old Town for a more laid-back experience that feels like a night out with friends.
Featured Review: San Sebastián Pintxos & Wine Tour in Centro
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Incredible tour and highly recommended! All stops in the city center experiencing local gems and learning the history of San Sebastián & Basque culture through food Jose is a top notch guide!”
– Bruce
Best Restaurants in San Sebastián’s Amara Neighborhood FAQs
Is the Amara neighborhood a good place to eat in San Sebastián?
Yes, Amara is one of San Sebastián’s best neighborhoods for experiencing the city’s local food scene away from the busiest tourist areas. From traditional Basque pintxo bars and family-run taverns to modern bistros and international restaurants, Amara offers a wide variety of dining options that are popular with locals.
What food should you try in Amara?
Amara is a great place to sample classic Basque dishes such as pintxos, grilled seafood, txuleta (Basque steak), croquetas, and seasonal specialties. The neighborhood also has an excellent selection of modern restaurants serving creative Basque cuisine alongside Italian, Asian, and other international flavors.
How do you get to the Amara neighborhood from San Sebastián’s Old Town?
Amara is just south of the city center and can be reached in about 15–20 minutes on foot from the Old Town. Several city bus routes also connect the neighborhoods, making Amara an easy destination for visitors looking to explore beyond the most touristy areas.
Is Amara worth visiting if you’ve already explored the Old Town?
Absolutely. While the Old Town is famous for its pintxo bars, Amara offers a more local atmosphere where you can enjoy excellent food with fewer crowds. It’s an ideal neighborhood for travelers who want to discover where San Sebastián residents dine and experience a different side of the city’s culinary culture.
When is the best time to eat in Amara?
Like the rest of San Sebastián, restaurants in Amara are busiest during traditional Spanish meal times, with lunch typically served from around 1:30 to 3:30 pm and dinner beginning around 8:30 pm. Visiting during these hours lets you experience the neighborhood’s lively local dining scene at its best.
