Ibai

IBAI by Paulo Airaudo is a one Michelin Star restaurant located in the centre of Donostia–San Sebastián. With seating for just 16 guests, the restaurant offers a contemporary interpretation of Basque cuisine, rooted in seasonality, exceptional produce, and a deep respect for the region’s culinary heritage.

The cuisine is shaped by the rhythm of the market and the finest ingredients available each day. Fish and seafood play a central role, alongside vegetables, meats, and artisanal products sourced from trusted local producers. Through precise technique and a restrained approach, the menu seeks to highlight the purity of flavour and the character of each ingredient. Guests are invited to discover this philosophy through two seasonal tasting menus, Erreka and Ibaia, which evolve continuously throughout the year. IBAI is brought to life by a talented team that shares Paulo Airaudo’s commitment to product-driven cooking, attention to detail, and genuine hospitality. Together, they combine a contemporary culinary perspective with a profound respect for Basque traditions. The experience unfolds across two complementary spaces. The dining room offers an intimate setting centred around the tasting menu experience, while La Barra del IBAI presents a contemporary take on traditional Basque pintxos, extending the restaurant’s philosophy into a more informal environment. Originally established as one of Donostia’s most iconic dining institutions, IBAI entered a new chapter under the direction of Paulo Airaudo in 2024. Today, the restaurant preserves the character and spirit that made it a local landmark while embracing a contemporary vision of Basque gastronomy recognised with a Michelin Star.