Casa Cámara jatetxea

Casa Cámara Jatetxea – A Historic Seafood Haven in Pasai Donibane

Located in the picturesque fishing village of Pasai Donibane, just outside San Sebastián, Casa Cámara Jatetxea is a legendary Basque restaurant with over 140 years of culinary history. Known for its superb seafood, timeless atmosphere, and unforgettable waterfront views, this family-run institution is a must-visit for lovers of authentic Basque cuisine and fresh, expertly prepared seafood dishes.

What to Expect at Casa Cámara Jatetxea

• Historic Charm: Step back in time as you enter the beautifully preserved dining rooms, featuring traditional Basque décor and stunning views of the fishing port. The restaurant has hosted famous guests over the years, including royalty and Hollywood celebrities.
• Exceptional Seafood: Specializing in freshly caught seafood, Casa Cámara sources its ingredients directly from local fishermen. Every dish celebrates the natural flavors of the Bay of Biscay.
• Family-Owned Tradition: Run by generations of the Cámara family, the restaurant takes pride in offering warm, attentive service and maintaining its culinary heritage.

What to Eat at Casa Cámara Jatetxea

The menu is a celebration of the sea, featuring a variety of traditional Basque seafood dishes prepared simply and perfectly to highlight the freshness of the ingredients.

• Must-Try Dishes:
  • Grilled Turbot (Rodaballo a la Parrilla): A standout dish—fresh turbot grilled over charcoal, drizzled with a light garlic and olive oil dressing.
  • Seafood Platter (Parrillada de Mariscos): A spectacular assortment of prawns, clams, scallops, and lobster—perfect for sharing.
  • Txangurro (Stuffed Spider Crab): A Basque specialty featuring sweet spider crab meat baked with onions, peppers, and a touch of brandy.
  • Clams in Green Sauce (Almejas en Salsa Verde): Fresh clams simmered in a vibrant parsley and white wine sauce—a simple yet flavorful classic.

What to Drink at Casa Cámara Jatetxea

Pair your seafood feast with a glass of crisp, local txakoli wine, or explore their curated wine list featuring excellent Spanish whites and reds. For a special touch, finish your meal with a traditional Basque Patxaran digestif.

• Recommended Pairings:
  • Txakoli: Light, slightly sparkling, and refreshingly acidic—perfect for cleansing the palate between rich seafood bites.
  • Albariño: A vibrant Spanish white wine that pairs beautifully with shellfish and grilled fish.
  • Patxaran: A sweet, anise-flavored Basque liqueur made from sloe berries—ideal to end the meal.

Tips for Visiting Casa Cámara Jatetxea

• Reserve in Advance: This iconic spot is popular with locals and travelers alike, so it’s wise to book a table ahead of time—especially if you want a window seat overlooking the harbor.
• Arrive by Boat: For a truly memorable experience, take the small boat ferry from San Pedro to Pasai Donibane and arrive at the restaurant directly from the water.
• Go for Lunch: Lunch is the most popular time to dine, and it allows you to enjoy the spectacular waterfront views during the day.
• Order Seasonal Specials: Ask your server about the freshest catches of the day—many off-menu items feature whatever the local fishermen have brought in that morning.

Final Thoughts

Casa Cámara Jatetxea isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a living piece of Basque culinary history. With its stunning seaside location, timeless hospitality, and outstanding seafood, it offers a dining experience that perfectly captures the flavors and traditions of the Basque coast. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or simply seeking an unforgettable meal with a view, Casa Cámara is not to be missed.