Bar Néstor
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Recommended Reviews - Bar Néstor
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The tomatoes were delicious and the service was quick and fast. They bring out which steak you would like to grill so you have that option. Seating can be awkward bc it's a small bar but the locals are loyal so that adds a nice touch of ambience. The steak was good but I think a little pricey.
Bar Nestor is widely popular for the Spanish Basque Tortilla de Patata. This amazing little place has been featured on television food shows and has plenty of YouTube followers. Nestor's specialty is in the unique way he prepares the tortilla de patata, which consists of seasoned potatoes, eggs, and caramelized onions. The torte is then inverted on a platter. It's similar to a quiche, but thicker, much more moist, and creamy on the inside. In order to eat here for lunch, we had to arrive by 10:00 am to sign up. I believe they only accommodate 30-40 people per meal service, so signing up in advance is a must. Once we were signed up, we went back at 11:15 am to wait in line to enter the small restaurant. The owner comes out about 11:30 and begins calling the names of those who are on the list. All others are turned away. Once seated inside, the doors are closed and the service begins. It's lively, fun and an experience of a lifetime. We were served the sliced tomatoes that are seasoned with olive oil, herbs and spices. Followed by a slice each of the long awaited and anticipated famous tortilla de patata! It did not disappoint. It was definitely the best one I had in Spain. Perfectly cooked, moist, flavorful, and creamy on the inside. We were then shown several cuts of xtuletas (t-bone steaks) to select from. After making our selection, it is seasoned, cooked and served on a sizzling hot iron plate. In Europe the steaks are served medium rare. I'm more of a medium person, but this steak was served on a piping cast iron plate, so I was able to cook a bit longer. I can honestly say that the steak was absolutely delicious! One of the best I've had! It was such a great experience dining at Bar Nestor. We were seated family style with people from London and Mexico, and had a great time eating, talking and enjoy our meal with a good glass of wine! Great food and great experience!
Excellent meat! Loved the bell peppers and tomatoes with olive oil and salt. The kids love it too. They only have two tables and it is impossible to get a reservation. They are also famous for their "tortilla española" which huge lines wait in the morning to get a bite. Definitely recommend as a must stop in your stay in Donostia!
bar néstor was my favorite place in my one week spain trip! First off, the server managing the queue was extremely friendly and kind. It also helped that he was great at english to clear any confusions about how their waiting list works. We came twice - once in the afternoon for the steak and another around 11 to try the tortilla (they only make one a day). While the steak was great, the tomato salad was phenomenal. I've never been a fan of eating tomato's straight up, but the way these were seasoned made it slightly sweet and had a satisfying almost meaty chew to it. The fried peppers are also a great pungent accompaniment for the steak. Bar Néstor is a must try!!
This was a very adorable place that we waited 1 hour to get in to stand at the bar- it was a happening - I heard o should order a gin and tonic and sure enough it was big and great- I loved watching the waiters at this animated bar, plus getting to know my neighbors as we waited in anticipation of all the hype. We got to chose the steak we want when the waiter brought out 2 raw ones to chose from- of course hubby picked the biggest one. Finally the steak came back out in a sizzling platter but still looked raw. I guess that's how Spaniards like their steak - way to red for me. But, when I'm Spain do what the Spaniards do- so I cut into it with excitement and put the first morsel in my mouth- very chewy and not as great as it looked.
Come for the food... stay for the food and service. The service is friendly and the food is simply delicious. The two highlights for me were the steak and the tomato salad. You get to choose your cut of steak and then they cook it to perfection. The tomatoes are the perfect compliment and the flakes of salt on both are chef's kiss.
Nice little spot. Chuleta, Tomato salad, pimientos and tortilla de patatas if your early enough. Great food, a bit of a wait, so get there early. Friendly staff.
4.5 stars There aren't many restaurants in San Sebastian that specialize in just a few menu items. Usually it's the more the merrier, when it comes to selections of pintxos! But Bar Nestor stands out from the crowd for offering just a few exclusive items (the menu isn't even written down and is just given verbally). First, there's the tortilla, of which they make just one for each lunch/dinner service, and it's so popular that you have to put your name down in advance of opening just to get a slice! Shortly after it was brought out, the server portioned out the huge round tortilla and doled slices out on small plates--this omelette made with potato slices was super juicy, such that you had to mop up the runny filling with the piece of bread. Another plate that Bar Nestor specialized in (and that every single table ordered) was the tomatoes, which were sliced, doused in olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. Nothing crazy, but the flavor of the tomatoes was definitely on point. Then there were the fried green peppers, which were simply seasoned with salt, but were definitely on the greasy side. But the star of the show here was the txuleta, a massive, thick steak cooked rare, cut into perfect slices, seasoned with salt, and served on a sizzling plate. When dinner service started, the waiters simply brought around plates of the raw steaks for each table to select from, and the steaks were weighed before being brought back into the kitchen. The huge, thick steaks were cooked to perfection and remained so juicy with tons of meaty flavor. This is not something you have every day, but it makes for an amazing carnivorous treat. On top of the great food experience, the servers here were extremely hospitable and welcoming both to locals and visitors, and the luxurious steak came at an unbelievable value!
the peppers were some of the best i've ever had! so good and so easy to down with some beer. as an arsenal fan, i also loved seeing the mikel arteta jersey so bonus points for that
All jokes aside, I would spend the rest of my life savings to have the opportunity to dine here once a year. There are three food items on the menu: 1) Tomatoes 2) Spanish style pimientos de Padrón 3) Txuleta (rib eye of an older cow) There is a secret item on the menu: the tortilla. But there is a running waitlist immediately after the bar opens. They only make two a day (from my understanding) and you better get your name on that list as early as you can. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to eat this! Luckily, the portions were more than enough for two and so damn good. I have been converted to a diehard carnivore. The best part about it is that you get to choose your desired slab of rib eye!!!
I had heard all the hype about Bar Nestor: the best tortilla de patata, or potato omelette, in Donostia. So after three nights of trying unsuccessfully to get into this tiny place in the heart of this seaside city's historic old town, my wife and I got there an hour before the place opened and we got on our name on the list--one of 16 coveted spots that entitled us to enter the bar first and get a slice of the famed tortilla. We were not disappointed! The tortilla was amazing, freshly cooked in a style with the eggs soft and warm, which was out of this world! Then we were asked if we wanted the chuleta, or prime cut of T-bone steak. Of course, we said. Why not? We also ordered the tomatoes garnished in olive oil and salt and the Guernica green peppers sautéed in olive oil and covered with copious amounts of salt. We munched on these tasty entrees and washed them down with Basque sagardoa, or cider. Both dishes were fantastic. While enjoying these starters, we were entertained by the head bartender, who barked out orders to his underlings and enjoyed entertaining the diners with his theatrics and answering questions anyone had about the place. The chuleta came sizzling on a hot skillet, very rare, which I like. But my wife, who prefers her meat more cooked, was able to turn the pieces of steak around on the hot skillet and cook them some more. The entire experience was absolutely first rate! Make sure you get to this place 45 minutes to an hour early to get your name on the list, then when you come back they will call you in the order you are listed. As we enjoyed our meal, a crowd formed outside, all of them hoping to land a spot inside. I felt satisfied and lucky as I ate while the crowds peered inside. I went back a week later with my son, wife and niece. It was just as good, and we all were glad that we has come to this classic eatery.
This place was money! We went every day we were in San Sebastián. The menu is simple: Tomato salad Pardon Peppers Gilda Txuleta Iberico ham and cheeses Tortilla! A note on the tortilla, which is incredible! It's made with potatoes and onions and it is heavenly. They only make one a day. The first is cut at 13:00. You have to go in before they open and get your name on the list. Totally worth it! The Txuleta is delicious. Will be cooked rare plus and delicious. The tomato salad is a relief as most menus are meat heavy! I can not recommend this place highly enough. The employees are very nice and food is delicious.
10 months ago
If you come to San Sebastián and don't stop at Bar Néstor, you've skipped one of the city's great culinary rituals. This tiny, high‑energy bar in the Parte Vieja is famous for doing just a few things -- and doing them with absolute conviction. The lineup is legendary: the txuleta steak, the tomato salad, the Padrón peppers, and of course, the tortilla that sells out instantly. They make only two tortillas a day, and getting your name on the list feels like joining a local rite of passage. Here's the twist: although the tortilla is the most famous item, it actually wasn't our favorite version in the city. It's still fun to chase, still a cool story to tell, but the real stars of the meal were the steak -- charred, juicy, perfectly salted -- and the tomatoes, which taste like they've been engineered for maximum summer. They only make 2 tortillas a day, so you have to stand in line before they open to get a reservation for a slice. Inside, it's tiny, loud, and joyful. The staff runs the place with precision and a wink, and even when it's packed shoulder‑to‑shoulder, it feels like you're exactly where you're supposed to be. Come early, come hungry, and come ready for a meal that feels like a Basque rite of passage -- tortilla hype and all. read more
Bar Nestor is one of those Old Town legends that actually earns the legend. It's tiny, slammed, and laser-focused on a few things they do better than almost anyone: the once-or-twice-a-day tortilla (you put your name down before service and pray), the txuleta that comes out perfectly salted, tomatoes and padrón peppers in season, and a handful of small plates that remind you why Basque cooking is among the greatest in the world. Our favorite bite here wasn't even the gorgeous stuffed ravioli, it was a "noodle" dish where the noodles are actually spiralized squid. Silky ribbons of txipiron, barely kissed by heat so they stay tender, tossed with good olive oil, a little oniony sweetness, herbs, and a snowfall of grated cheese (Idiazabal-like in flavor). Simple, clean, and surprisingly creative at the same time. Exactly what Donostia gets right at its best. The room is a crush (in the best way), the team is friendly but no-nonsense, and the whole operation runs very predictably: show up early if you want tortilla; be ready to stand; order the classics and whatever seafood they're excited about that day. read more
2 years ago
Amazing tortilla de patata, the staff is friendly and helpful and the space is very cozy. Limited amount of spots per seating, but appreciated the system they have in place so there aren't long lines! read more
5 months ago
1 year ago
2 years ago
The tomatoes were delicious and the service was quick and fast. They bring out which steak you would like to grill so you have that option. Seating can be awkward bc it's a small bar but the locals are loyal so that adds a nice touch of ambience. The steak was good but I think a little pricey. read more
3 years ago
Bar Nestor is widely popular for the Spanish Basque Tortilla de Patata. This amazing little place has been featured on television food shows and has plenty of YouTube followers. Nestor's specialty is in the unique way he prepares the tortilla de patata, which consists of seasoned potatoes, eggs, and caramelized onions. The torte is then inverted on a platter. It's similar to a quiche, but thicker, much more moist, and creamy on the inside. In order to eat here for lunch, we had to arrive by 10:00 am to sign up. I believe they only accommodate 30-40 people per meal service, so signing up in advance is a must. Once we were signed up, we went back at 11:15 am to wait in line to enter the small restaurant. The owner comes out about 11:30 and begins calling the names of those who are on the list. All others are turned away. Once seated inside, the doors are closed and the service begins. It's lively, fun and an experience of a lifetime. We were served the sliced tomatoes that are seasoned with olive oil, herbs and spices. Followed by a slice each of the long awaited and anticipated famous tortilla de patata! It did not disappoint. It was definitely the best one I had in Spain. Perfectly cooked, moist, flavorful, and creamy on the inside. We were then shown several cuts of xtuletas (t-bone steaks) to select from. After making our selection, it is seasoned, cooked and served on a sizzling hot iron plate. In Europe the steaks are served medium rare. I'm more of a medium person, but this steak was served on a piping cast iron plate, so I was able to cook a bit longer. I can honestly say that the steak was absolutely delicious! One of the best I've had! It was such a great experience dining at Bar Nestor. We were seated family style with people from London and Mexico, and had a great time eating, talking and enjoy our meal with a good glass of wine! Great food and great experience! read more
3 years ago
Excellent meat! Loved the bell peppers and tomatoes with olive oil and salt. The kids love it too. They only have two tables and it is impossible to get a reservation. They are also famous for their "tortilla española" which huge lines wait in the morning to get a bite. Definitely recommend as a must stop in your stay in Donostia! read more
3 years ago
bar néstor was my favorite place in my one week spain trip! First off, the server managing the queue was extremely friendly and kind. It also helped that he was great at english to clear any confusions about how their waiting list works. We came twice - once in the afternoon for the steak and another around 11 to try the tortilla (they only make one a day). While the steak was great, the tomato salad was phenomenal. I've never been a fan of eating tomato's straight up, but the way these were seasoned made it slightly sweet and had a satisfying almost meaty chew to it. The fried peppers are also a great pungent accompaniment for the steak. Bar Néstor is a must try!! read more
3 years ago
This was a very adorable place that we waited 1 hour to get in to stand at the bar- it was a happening - I heard o should order a gin and tonic and sure enough it was big and great- I loved watching the waiters at this animated bar, plus getting to know my neighbors as we waited in anticipation of all the hype. We got to chose the steak we want when the waiter brought out 2 raw ones to chose from- of course hubby picked the biggest one. Finally the steak came back out in a sizzling platter but still looked raw. I guess that's how Spaniards like their steak - way to red for me. But, when I'm Spain do what the Spaniards do- so I cut into it with excitement and put the first morsel in my mouth- very chewy and not as great as it looked. read more
Come for the food... stay for the food and service. The service is friendly and the food is simply delicious. The two highlights for me were the steak and the tomato salad. You get to choose your cut of steak and then they cook it to perfection. The tomatoes are the perfect compliment and the flakes of salt on both are chef's kiss. read more
4.5 stars There aren't many restaurants in San Sebastian that specialize in just a few menu items. Usually it's the more the merrier, when it comes to selections of pintxos! But Bar Nestor stands out from the crowd for offering just a few exclusive items (the menu isn't even written down and is just given verbally). First, there's the tortilla, of which they make just one for each lunch/dinner service, and it's so popular that you have to put your name down in advance of opening just to get a slice! Shortly after it was brought out, the server portioned out the huge round tortilla and doled slices out on small plates--this omelette made with potato slices was super juicy, such that you had to mop up the runny filling with the piece of bread. Another plate that Bar Nestor specialized in (and that every single table ordered) was the tomatoes, which were sliced, doused in olive oil, and sprinkled with salt. Nothing crazy, but the flavor of the tomatoes was definitely on point. Then there were the fried green peppers, which were simply seasoned with salt, but were definitely on the greasy side. But the star of the show here was the txuleta, a massive, thick steak cooked rare, cut into perfect slices, seasoned with salt, and served on a sizzling plate. When dinner service started, the waiters simply brought around plates of the raw steaks for each table to select from, and the steaks were weighed before being brought back into the kitchen. The huge, thick steaks were cooked to perfection and remained so juicy with tons of meaty flavor. This is not something you have every day, but it makes for an amazing carnivorous treat. On top of the great food experience, the servers here were extremely hospitable and welcoming both to locals and visitors, and the luxurious steak came at an unbelievable value! read more
2 years ago
the peppers were some of the best i've ever had! so good and so easy to down with some beer. as an arsenal fan, i also loved seeing the mikel arteta jersey so bonus points for that read more
2 years ago
All jokes aside, I would spend the rest of my life savings to have the opportunity to dine here once a year. There are three food items on the menu: 1) Tomatoes 2) Spanish style pimientos de Padrón 3) Txuleta (rib eye of an older cow) There is a secret item on the menu: the tortilla. But there is a running waitlist immediately after the bar opens. They only make two a day (from my understanding) and you better get your name on that list as early as you can. Unfortunately, we did not have the opportunity to eat this! Luckily, the portions were more than enough for two and so damn good. I have been converted to a diehard carnivore. The best part about it is that you get to choose your desired slab of rib eye!!! read more
I had heard all the hype about Bar Nestor: the best tortilla de patata, or potato omelette, in Donostia. So after three nights of trying unsuccessfully to get into this tiny place in the heart of this seaside city's historic old town, my wife and I got there an hour before the place opened and we got on our name on the list--one of 16 coveted spots that entitled us to enter the bar first and get a slice of the famed tortilla. We were not disappointed! The tortilla was amazing, freshly cooked in a style with the eggs soft and warm, which was out of this world! Then we were asked if we wanted the chuleta, or prime cut of T-bone steak. Of course, we said. Why not? We also ordered the tomatoes garnished in olive oil and salt and the Guernica green peppers sautéed in olive oil and covered with copious amounts of salt. We munched on these tasty entrees and washed them down with Basque sagardoa, or cider. Both dishes were fantastic. While enjoying these starters, we were entertained by the head bartender, who barked out orders to his underlings and enjoyed entertaining the diners with his theatrics and answering questions anyone had about the place. The chuleta came sizzling on a hot skillet, very rare, which I like. But my wife, who prefers her meat more cooked, was able to turn the pieces of steak around on the hot skillet and cook them some more. The entire experience was absolutely first rate! Make sure you get to this place 45 minutes to an hour early to get your name on the list, then when you come back they will call you in the order you are listed. As we enjoyed our meal, a crowd formed outside, all of them hoping to land a spot inside. I felt satisfied and lucky as I ate while the crowds peered inside. I went back a week later with my son, wife and niece. It was just as good, and we all were glad that we has come to this classic eatery. read more
This place was money! We went every day we were in San Sebastián. The menu is simple: Tomato salad Pardon Peppers Gilda Txuleta Iberico ham and cheeses Tortilla! A note on the tortilla, which is incredible! It's made with potatoes and onions and it is heavenly. They only make one a day. The first is cut at 13:00. You have to go in before they open and get your name on the list. Totally worth it! The Txuleta is delicious. Will be cooked rare plus and delicious. The tomato salad is a relief as most menus are meat heavy! I can not recommend this place highly enough. The employees are very nice and food is delicious. read more
7 years ago
Cyndy's Bottom Line: A very hospitable steak place Everything is simple and delicious! Very friendly genuine service...just like Hawaii. Tomatoes are delicious! Grilled peppers, tasty! Steak is flavorful and tasty delicious! Seasoned perfectly, sprinkled with salt! Mahalo for a wonderful experience! read more
Bar Nestor is primarily known for 4 things - their tortilla de patata, chuleta (steak), tomatoes and peppers. We tried 3 of those 4 items, and they were out of this world! This was the first pintxo bar that we went to when we first arrived in San Sebastián. I had read about it prior to our trip and knew that I had to go there for the chuleta (steak). The server comes out with two pieces of raw meat (small & large) and asks which one you want. 20 minutes later, it comes out to you on a sizzling hot platter with a little rock salt. It is heaven on earth! Another item we got was the tomatoes. It's basically tomatoes cut up and seasoned with rock salt and olive oil. Simple and good, but not out of this world. We were lucky enough to try the tortilla de patata even though we had missed the reservation window. Basically you need to put your name in for it before 8pm, as they only make 1 a night. Once it comes out, they slice it up and if your name is on the list, then you get a piece. I thought it was good, even though I'm not much of an omelette fan. The staff is very friendly, although I think the owner was friendlier to the locals than the tourists. The food more than made up for it though, so I'm giving this place 5 stars! read more
2 years ago
One of the best steaks I've had in my lifetime . . . Thanks to our new friend Agustin Ciriza, we discovered this wonderful place. It's pretty simple: tomato salad, peppers and beef -- no pintxos . . . and you have never had simple so flavorful . . . Tomatoes are served with olive oil and salt. My wife is not a fan of whole tomatoes, but she was a fan of these: sweet and ripe, melt in your mouth goodness. The green peppers were served hot, with a pinch of salt and oil . . . we ate them like chips, they were so tasty. The highlight of the meal (understatement of the year) was the steak. We had been to two pinxtos bars prior, and didn't think we had the ability to eat a steak. However, one look around and we knew it was going to be special. We asked for the smallest cut available, nicely marbeled and cooked medium. 30 mins later, and the guys brought out a perfectly grilled steak, just a hint of butter present , and oh-so-mouth-watering . . . I can't exaggerate, one of the best steaks I've had in my life. Throw in several glasses of Riojas wine . . . heaven. Cheers! RL read more
This was the best meal we had in San Sebastián. It was a really fun experience, especially since we had to get here early, and stand to eat our HUGE steak. It was cooked perfectly, and had tons of flavor. The tomatoes literally melt in your mouth. When they ask if you want it with peppers and tomatoes, you say yes (you will regret it if you don't get them)the tomatoes are amazing. We missed out on getting the Spanish tortilla because we didn't know you had to order it earlier on in the day, but we saw people with it and it looked amazing. So pro tip, order it earlier on in the day. This place has been around for years and I'm pretty sure the older guy behind the bar is the owner or the son of the owner. We looked at the walls and there's lots of news articles and sports stuff with him in it which was cool to see. We even came back the next night and ordered tomatoes from the window as an "appetizer" for the night. So if you can't get a spot inside standing, walk up to their window and order a cider and some Tomatoes! Or steak too. This is a must in San Sebastián. read more
Who stands in line at 1100 am for a eggs? Answer: anyone that knows it's the simplest things that are done well that are worth the weight. There's also a selfish joy eating your slice of tortilla heaven and hearing the disappointment of those that didn't know....you know it's true if you've been there! I don't know what's in those eggs, but it's magical. Same with the tomatoes and peppers--simple ingredients done well. The Txchuleta looked amazing, but this solo diner had overindulge the night before. I'll have to go back---What a great place to hang out for a few bites and drinks in San Sebastián. Loved it!! read more
4 years ago
14 years ago
Steak, fried peppers, and a refreshing tomato salad! If you come for lunchthis is a very heavy lunch even for sharing. I believe they only serve these three items plus drinks, so if you do not like steakyou are out of luck. They bring out a few giant slabs of meat and let you pick the one you want before they grill it. The meat comes out steaming hot and incredibly juicy. read more
KenScale: 8.0/10 The Basque region is well-known for having all the top echelon fine dining restaurants scattered around San Sebastian and Bilbao but you have to make sure to block some meals for casual pintxos (a collective reference to small plates in the Basque, sort of equivalent to "tapas") around the area as well. The old quarters in San Sebastian, not surprisingly, have a bunch of very well-known casual bars serving some excellent food. The first stop of my trip was Bar Nestor, a perpetually packed bar with concise yet very popular dishes. Unlike other pintxos bar, Nestor is really known for its decadent, giant steak dish. The steak doesn't have the elegance in looks, but the meat was expertly prepared. I wish the salt shavings were not too widespread as I felt the meat's flavor was sometimes undermined by the salty sensation, but otherwise, it's a pretty good plate of meat dish. To complement the meat, make sure to order the fresh tomatoes that, again but for the salty oil below, could've been the best tomato dishes I've had in a while, as well as the peppers. The bar is also known for its egg tortilla dishes but unfortunately I couldn't get a hold as they tend to sell out early after being available at 1 and 8 p.m. each day. The bar is very tiny with a single counter and not many dining tables, but the atmosphere is lively and cozy. Make sure to get some wine (try a glass or two of txakoli, a slightly sparkling white wine from the Basque region) to go along with your food fest. If you're looking for a more decadent experience during the pintxos run in the Basque region, Nestor can be a solid place to begin with. read more
5.2017 Tortilla: Arrive 60 - 90 minutes before they open for lunch at 13:00 or dinner at 20:00. You can always arrive whenever you like but it is likely the 1 tortilla per lunch / dinner will spoken for. When one of the BN gentleman arrive or if they are already there - let them know you're interested in the tortilla. He'll take your name and share one rule. Return at the applicable time 13:00 / 20:00 & not to be late. Side note: One of most amusing and entertaining things in all of Spain is witnessing the Gentleman call out the names when tortilla is ready. Txuleta (beef steak): One rule, try another reputable Txuleta place to better appreciate and understand the regions beef. Don't eat Txuleta only at BN and chirp how it's the best when you have never tried elsewhere. I had Txuleta first at Gandarias and second at Bar Nestor. The Perfect San Sebastián dinner: If you're in SB for other meals, explore the various Pinxtos (pronounced Peen CHoes) but the perfect dinner as described is more satisfying than any 3 Michelin Star meal I had on this trip. Appetizers/Small Bites: 1. Barnacles at Bernardo Etxea and/or 2. Black Rabas (Fried Squid Ink) at A Fuego Negro. 3. Tortilla, Tomato Salad, Peppers at Bar Nestor. Main Course: Txuleta (comes with perfect Frites and bread) & 1 glass of local Spanish Tinto/Roja/Red wine at Gandarias. Dessert: Fried Milk at La Cepa then Cheesecake next door at La Vina. *All locations are within a 5 minute walk of each other. read more
7 years ago
9 years ago
Deep in the tourist laden cacophony of the historic district this small (4 tables, and a bar) steakhouse serves up more than just beef.....it serves up an experience. Bar Nestor is everything that most of the other reviewers mentioned, big portions of meat, limited menu and snug atmosphere. We had no idea what to expect as we had not read any reviews of this place. We came here because the owner of our pension said it was his favorite place (plus La Cuchara) in the old town. We found a place at the bar and were asked what we wanted to drink. We told them. Then they asked us if we wanted meat. Not often we get asked that question in such an abrupt way in a restaurant. We shrugged our shoulders and said yes (Its often quite advisable when traveling to just go with the flow.) They then asked if we wanted tomatoes. We said yes. They then asked if we wanted peppers. We said yes. Thant seem to satisfy them. A few minutes later a guy from the kitchen came out with two dinosaur-sized steaks and asked us which one we wanted. We opted for the stegosaurus and left the brontosaurus for someone else. Soon our single serving plate of tomatoes (which would feed three) arrived followed by a plate of sizzling grilled peppers (we could have made a meal out of those alone). Then 20 minutes later a sizzling platter of monster meat arrived sliced and ready to be devoured. We shared out steak with two other travelers from England and still didn't finish it. The steak itself was not the most tender but, it was prepared excellently. Over and above the food served here, Bar Nestor provides the experience that will live in our memory far beyond most other establishments we have sampled. It is common for us to forget or need to remind ourselves of certain places as most meld into each other as we travel along. Bar Nestor is not one of those. We will be back. PS If they are full they also serve steak from their walk up window. If you don't mind eating standing up in the street. read more
3 years ago
Wish I had done some research in advance! Went at the recommendation of a tour guide not realizing that they serve huge ass steaks vs a tapas. We also did not realize that when you give your name you are just doing so to get on a list for a standing spot at the bar. You don't actually order until they have space, even though when we gave our name we said what we wanted for food as well. Only reason I gave 4 stars is because they did not explain that we had to wait to order and that it would be a long wait, 90+ min, but with all the business they get I'm guessing they can do as they please. On to the food... the tomatoes are awesome! I'm not a huge tomato fan but they were delicious, soaked in olive oil and sea salt. We also shared the steak. It was the rarest piece of meat I have ever had, but we learned if you flip the pieces over on the hot skillet they serve it on that it will cook more. For 2 of us, 4 drinks, tomatoes and steak were about 45 euros. Glad we went and would recommend the spot, but have a game plan and go hungry! read more
That steak - wow. Be ready to pick your piece of meat, they will give you a few options. It comes out steaming hot, still cooking. Absolutely one of the best pieces of steak I've ever had, for sure the biggest. Oh yeah, we also had the tomatoes. Loved those! Big plate, super simple - tomatoes, olive oil and salt. We came hungry, left stuffed and thoroughly satisfied. read more
Just pure conceptual perfection. That say to pick one thing and do that thing well. Well, in the case of Bar Néstor, they are doing 4 things VERY well! If you've read any other reviews you'll know that they are famous for a few things: the egg pancake, steak, tomatoes and peppers. I was able to partake in all of these things last week (some of them twice) and everything was remarkably amazing! Ito and his crew work hard to get you prompt service and epic eats but, it's usually busy so be patient. The tomatoes might have been some of the best I've had along with the one pintxo they serve (olive, anchovy, peppers) but, the steak is pure insanity. 5-6 inches thick, it's presented to you so you can make a selection before it hits their flat top grill. Once served, it comes out sizzling on a cast iron pan so that if you want to cook your beef a bit more it's up to you. I can't really explain how delicious it is, just stare at my photos. So epic, so epic, so epic. I want to open something like this in the Bay Area. Sweet mother of Mary. read more
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Arrandegi Kalea, 11
20003 Donostia / San Sebastián
Spain
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943 424 873
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https://bar-nestor.negocio.site
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