Ballestanea by Carlos Echevarria A unique gastronomic experience in a family restaurant in Hondarribia

  • English
    • A unique gastronomic experience in a family restaurant in Hondarribia

      Contemporary Basque and Peruvian cuisine

      Located in the Arkolla neighborhood of Hondarribia, Ballestenea by Carlos offers Basque and Peruvian cuisine that reflects the diversity and richness of the world's flavors. Under the direction of Chef Carlos Echevarría, the establishment combines Basque gastronomy and Peruvian influences, with a deep respect for local produce and traditional techniques. Each plate expresses a subtle alliance between Basque know-how and Latin American creativity, for an authentic and balanced culinary experience.

      A seasonal cuisine of contrasts

      The menu evolves with the seasons, incorporating fresh produce from the Basque Country and typical ingredients from Peru. Fish is given pride of place, particularly through preparations inspired by Peruvian ceviche, while meats, vegetables and spices recall the local roots. The wine list features carefully selected Basque and Spanish wines, perfectly accompanying the dishes with multiple influences.

      Atmosphere and setting

      Ballestenea by Carlos's setting combines elegance and serenity. Natural materials, soft lighting, and refined decor create a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere. The terrace allows guests to enjoy the beautiful weather, while the interior dining room offers a warm space to savor contemporary Basque and Peruvian cuisine.

      Positioning and philosophy

      The address is aimed at gastronomy lovers curious to discover new flavors, while remaining faithful to the spirit of the Basque terroir. Ballestenea by Carlos emphasizes respect for the product, proximity to local producers, and an openness to world cuisine, particularly that of Peru. The restaurant is distinguished by its balance between tradition, modernity and creativity.

      What to do in the surrounding area

      Nearby, the old town of Hondarribia charms with its colorful facades and lively streets. Mount Jaizkibel offers magnificent hiking trails and ocean views. The beaches of Hondarribia and Hendaye invite you to relax. Nearby, the Bay of Txingudi and the coastal villages of the Spanish Basque Country offer an opportunity to extend your exploration of a region rich in culture, nature, and gastronomy.

  • Français
  • Español
  • Deutsch
  • Euskara

Traveller Reviews Ballestanea by Carlos Echevarria

4.1 sur 5 1386 reviews

  • Inma Martín

    2 sur 5 Reviews posted by Inma Martín on 02/06/2026

    We went because the setting is fantastic, but we left very disappointed. We ordered a mixed salad to share (it was all uncut lettuce, with two slices of tomato, an asparagus spear, half a boiled egg, and three olives) and two grilled monkfish fillets, which tasted far too smoky. We were told they would come with roasted potatoes, but they didn't; instead, we got three slices of boiled potato (€23 each). Finally, we ordered two reheated croquettes, bringing the total bill to €79 for two disgruntled diners. And then there was €4 for four tiny rolls (disproportionately small), €7 for a bottle of cider, and €3 for filtered tap water (if I'd known, I would have demanded a free, unfiltered pitcher). To top it all off, we were seated at a tiny table where the plates barely fit, in a corner of the hallway with no windows. So, I'm sorry to say we won't be back.

  • 1981anahi

    1 sur 5 Reviews posted by 1981anahi on 31/05/2026

    Family meal with terrible service and food. The food was completely bland and tasteless, the side potatoes were reheated and grayish, and the portions were small. The children's menus were burnt, both the meat and the eggs, not to mention the service... We were completely abandoned at the table after the dishes were brought! They didn't refill the water, didn't offer us bread... and didn't clear our plates before dessert and coffee... Yet the prices were as if it were a luxury restaurant. Family meal ruined. Response: the fish sauce is just oil with garlic, added at the end... so it has nothing to do with the saltiness or the flavor of the food, or the grayish, overcooked potatoes. The claim about kicking the furniture is a lie; we did pile up the dishes because the service was nonexistent.

  • TRIANGOLO pizza & fries

    2 sur 5 Reviews posted by TRIANGOLO pizza & fries on 31/05/2026

    Bad experience, honestly speechless. I'm not adding photos so as not to worsen the review. A slap on the wrist for whoever is responsible.

Traveller Reviews Ballestanea by Carlos Echevarria

3.4 sur 5 148 reviews

Rating summary

  • Atmosphere 3.8 / 5
  • Food 3.7 / 5
  • Service 3.4 / 5
  • Value 3.6 / 5
  • "Great fun!"

    4 / 5 Reviews posted by QSMPEK (Almeria, Spain) on 30/06/2018

    Great fun - right out in the countryside - you can stroke the donkeys in the field next door! Good basic food Good local wine Lovely helpful people Worth an effort to get up into the hills to find...

    Read the full review
  • "Pleasant environment, regular and expensive food."

    2 / 5 Reviews posted by ALAIA1974 (Pamplona, Spain) on 01/06/2026

    The place is fine for going with family to have something to drink. It has a nice terrace with animals; it is good for going with children. The food is not good; it is very basic. It would be...

    Read the full review
  • "Big disappointment"

    2 / 5 Reviews posted by Amaia I on 09/05/2026

    Very disappointed. We went with the idea of dining a tasting menu of those who advertise on the web. Upon arrival there, we are informed that it is not available, which is only by...

    Read the full review

Ride around

La voie verte d'Hendaye aux 2 Jumeaux en écomobilité

La voie verte d'Hendaye aux 2 Jumeaux en écomobilité
La voie verte d'Hendaye aux 2 Jumeaux en écomo ...

2,2 km - Hendaye

Velo hybrid Bike / road

Balade à Roulettes n°46 : Hendaye, le Port de Caneta

Balade à Roulettes n°46 : Hendaye, le Port de Caneta
Balade à Roulettes n°46 : Hendaye, le Port de  ...

2,4 km - Hendaye

Walking

A la découverte du patrimoine d'Hendaye

A la découverte du patrimoine d'Hendaye
A la découverte du patrimoine d'Hendaye

2,6 km - Hendaye

Walking

To discover around

AMUITZ

AMUITZ
AMUITZ

Amuitz, the mythical island The island Amuitz is located at the cape of Higer, near the lighthouse. It has a small ...

1,4 km - Fuenterrabía

Sanctuary of Guadalupe, on the Jaizkibel in Hondarribia

Sanctuary of Guadalupe, on the Jaizkibel in Hondarribia
Sanctuary of Guadalupe, on the Jaizkibel in Ho ...

It is a hermitage, dedicated to the Virgin of Guadalupe, who is patron of the city of Hondarribia. The sanctuary ...

1,4 km - Fuenterrabía

Church Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion y del Manzano

Church Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion y del Manzano
Church Nuestra Senora de la Asuncion y del Manzano

Recognizable in its tower, almost circular in shape, it is Gothic in style and offers beautiful volumes inside. ...

1,5 km - Fuenterrabía

Hondarribia-Irun

Hondarribia-Irun
Hondarribia-Irun

Hondarribia is an invitation to lose track of time and stroll through the historic center, enjoying the terraces and ...

2,3 km - Irún

Txingudi marshes

Txingudi marshes
Txingudi marshes

A beautiful ecological wealth awaits you in these marshes of Bidassoa. A seaside park, conducive to bird watching, ...

2,4 km - Fuenterrabía

loading... map preview

Ballestanea by Carlos Echevarria

Address

Arkolla Auzoa, 39
20280 Hondarribia

GPS coordinates

43° 21'31.07"N, 1° 48'28.04"W

We tested for you

Hondarribia, medieval, maritime and gastronomic town

Hondarribia, medieval, maritime and gastronomic town
Hondarribia, medieval, maritime and gastronomi ...

1,5 km - Fuenterrabía

A visit to Hondarribia and Irun: charming medieval market towns!

A visit to Hondarribia and Irun: charming medieval market towns!
A visit to Hondarribia and Irun: charming medi ...

1,5 km - Fuenterrabía

Ola Sagardotegia, a gourmet and authentic cider experience in the Basque Country

Ola Sagardotegia, a gourmet and authentic cider experience in the Basque Country
Ola Sagardotegia, a gourmet and authentic cide ...

2,4 km - Irún

Irun and Hondarribia, a discovery of natural spaces in the Bidasoa region

Irun and Hondarribia, a discovery of natural spaces in the Bidasoa region
Irun and Hondarribia, a discovery of natural s ...

2,4 km - Irún

Three Crowns Hike Aiako Harria

Three Crowns Hike Aiako Harria
Three Crowns Hike Aiako Harria

2,4 km - Irún

You will also like

Beko Errota

Beko Errota
Beko Errota

Beko-Errota is a leading culinary icon in the Bidasoa region thanks to its expertise. With over 40 years of ...

627 m - Fuenterrabía

Badia Taberna

Badia Taberna
Badia Taberna

BADIA TABERNA: A REPSOL SUNSHINE IN THE HEART OF HONDARRIBIA An establishment recognized for its seasonal cuisine ...

1,4 km - Fuenterrabía

Tatapas Gastroteka

Tatapas Gastroteka
Tatapas Gastroteka

Contemporary, creative and signature cuisine Located in the historic center of Hondarribia, Tatapas Gastroteka ...

1,4 km - Fuenterrabía

Mika Jatetxea

Mika Jatetxea
Mika Jatetxea

Restaurant and contemporary Basque cuisine in Hondarribia Authentic and friendly cuisine Located in the heart of the ...

1,4 km - Fuenterrabía

Bar Itxaporena

Bar Itxaporena
Bar Itxaporena

BAR ITXAROPENA HONDARRIBIA Bar Itxaropena Hondarribia is a traditional establishment located in the town of ...

1,6 km - Fuenterrabía