Bar Martinez — Restaurant in San Sebastián

My friend ordered in English and the guy behind the counter had no problem understanding. Then I asked the guy what was in one of the stuffed snacks (usually cheese or ham). He grabbed it and started putting it on the plate so I switched to Spanish and said "no, que es adentro?" meaning "no, what is inside?" I wanted to know what it was stuffed with before I ordered it. The guy literally rolled his eyes, and in Spanish dropped an F bomb (starts with J in Spanish) and aggressively shouted, "ham!" in Spanish. I know this was not a communication issue on my end because it was super simple Spanish, well within my ability, and my accent is excellent. I ordered the snack. Turns out it was stuffed with artichokes and ham.

The place was super super packed and the food was good but just as good as many other places that won't charge tourist prices. There is no reason to go here versus somewhere else unless you like abusive staff. Here is a tip, get out of old town and go to a different neighborhood with fewer tourists. The staff will generally not treat you like trash in...

We came here on our food tour two days ago, and I couldn’t wait to return on our own. We came on a Wednesday afternoon at about 1:30 and I was pleasantly surprised that we got a table.

The stuffed piquillo peppers (with tuna) are a specialty and they are delicious. I returned here because I wanted/needed to have them again. Also got the shrimp with potato salad, scallops, and the Spanish omelette (which is like a tortilla here in San Sebastián). Everything was fresh and delicious.

The owner was our waitress and I can’t even tell you how helpful and patient she was. And she spoke English. Not sure where others may have had issues but I find if I’m pleasant, friendly, and gracious I always receive wonderful service. This was no exception.

The prices were super reasonable. For all of the pintxos mentioned above, and a glass of wine for both me and my hubby, it was less than €28.

I’ll leaving San Sebastián but if I was staying longer I would...

This bar has been owned by generations of the same family for 83 years and we were privileged to meet the current owner as he was proudly repositioning a family photo on the back wall behind us. We had the best bar table in the back corner where you could see all the comings and goings from the kitchen and between that and a very helpful waitress we were able to make serious decisions regarding our pintxo choices. Chalota rellena de crema de centollo, shallot stuffed with crab cream was our penultimate highlight but the prawns and anchovies were also outstanding. We also enjoyed some red wine and a palate cleansing plate of the best French fries we have ever eaten. Bar Martinez is patronised by locals and tourists and the tables and counter stools fill in waves as people surge in and out sampling pintxo and drinks. The staff are friendly and efficient and the whole experience was a wonderful introduction to the cuisine of Donostia...