Old school Basque fine dining charm
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| Smoked mackerel, anchovies and olives |
On my latest trip to San Sebastian, I went with a dining theme in mind as everything I booked, are traditional venues that offer classic cooking without much creativity or gimmicks. Classic is classic for a reason after all. Located just outside of San Sebastian, Zuberoa is a traditional Basque restaurant within a little town called Oiartzun, which is about 20 mins ride if you take a taxi from San Sebastian's old town. The Arbelaiz family has turned this rustic and charming Michelin starred restaurant into a dining destination, routed deep in classical Basque-style cuisine, using the finest ingredients from around the Basque region.
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| Lobster, sea urchins and scallop in lemon cream |
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| Spring egg with truffle and mushrooms |
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| Roasted sea bass, its collagen and squid juice |
I opted for the tasting menu, and as expected, many dishes looked simple and easy to understand, with no fancy or over-the-top presentation. The seafood pool was loaded with scallops, lobster and sea urchins, it was an umami whirlpool and all linked up wonderfully with a light lemon cream. The roasted seabass was seabass at the peak. Silky smooth with a buttery texture, the squid sauce worked like a treat with the natural sweetness of the fish, it was perfection. The house cheesecake put La Vina's version to shame, soft and creamy, it had an almost melting texture that kept you wanting more.
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| Roasted pigeon, liver toast and turnip filled with mushrooms |
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| Basque cheesecake |
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| Creamy chocolate, banana and mandarin |
Zuberoa actually reminded me of Le Gavroche, a timeless classic that pays homage to traditional fine dining. I was also a big fan of the dining room, really feltt like it took me back to the enlightenment age, the room was full of charm, and well looked after by a team of well manner front of house team. Special shout out to the sommelier for his wine selection too, crazily good value for money for the quality I had. Zuberoa is the kind of place you need to go if you are a fan of the old-school charm.
Food 4/5
Average cost without drinks and services:
Tasting menu: £145
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