Saltxipi

 Basque old school griller 

1.1kg turbot

Back in 2021, I somehow managed to be able to secure a table at the infamous Elkano and I was fallen in love with the simplicity of open fire grilling using the freshest seafood. Therefore, on a recent trip to San Sebastian, Saltxipi is the perfect type of restaurant to visit. Located on the east side of the city, by the doorstep of the way of St James trail, Saltxipi is an old-school traditional Basque griller (opened back in 1985) that sources local seafood and simply cooked on an open fire. 

Grilled clams

txangurro

The signature of the restaurant is the baked txangurro, in which the chef removed all the white meat from the legs, before mixing it with the brown meat within the body before baking with tomato and brandy. Every mouthful I had was blessed with a rich yet bold taste of the sea, it was stunning. The grilled 1.1kg whole turbot was done perfectly, as good as Elkano in fact. The fish was moist, with a great level of seasoning, smooth and buttery in taste, along with just a small hint of smokiness, easily standing above any grilled fish dishes in the UK.

Grilled hake kokotxa

BBQ turbot served

I am a big fan of Saltxipi, simple seafood, cooked to perfection over an open fire, served by a small but friendly team of staff. No gimmicks, just great-tasting food done in a classic manner. I would love to return when I visit San Sebastian again in the future. A morning hike on the St James' way followed by a seafood feast, is just the type of occasion I will always have time for.

Food 4/5

What I paid: 
110 Euro per person with wine

Average cost without drinks and services:
75 Euro

Ategorrietako Galtzada Zaharra, 3, 20013 Donostia, Gipuzkoa, Spain

https://saltxipi.com/en/