And that is exactly how I formed this trip. Every city we visited had a food destination. Spain has specialty foods originating from certain cities or towns. This country birthed some of the greatest chefs in the world.
Enter, Juan Mari Arzak. What better way to start our trip than with a dining experience from the godfather of all contemporary Spanish chefs, and, perhaps, of most western chefs today. And what better way to celebrate my mom's birthday. Seriously, there is no better way.
Arzak is located just outside of the central parts of San Sebastian. You enter welcomed by a formal wait staff in traditional garments. The restaurant is classic, simple, modern, and refined. The staff and service have that unique Spanish hospitality that graciously makes you feel at home.
We ordered the tasting menu instead of a la carte selections because we assumed this may be our only chance eating here, our once in a lifetime experience. After eating course after course with some "whoa - that's amazing!" bites, I have a feeling this wasn't our last time. I could go back and eat the cromlech course and lamb course all over again. Plus, the a la carte menu had offerings now offered in the tasting menu. And of course, the menu constantly changes according to season and availability.
The icing to the meal and the whole dining experience was meeting Elena Arzak, Juan Mari's daughter. She walks around the restaurant unassuming and readily welcomes guests who are eager to meet her, like at our table. What an amazing night.
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| Our Tasting Menu Printed out at the end of our meal. Complete with our course selections, special requests, and wines for the evening. |
