I am not sure what it is about the north of Spain that produces chefs of such brilliance.

Juan Mari Arzak is no exception other than being exceptional, and then what happens, he has daughter and she also reins supreme in the kitchen alongside her father, one of the undisputed kings of cookery.

The restaurant which bares his name is located in San Sebastian and is owned and run by one of the founding fathers of the Nuevo Cocina Vasca. He is aided expertly by his daughter Elena, a master chef in her own right. There is a special menu of the day which includes appetizers, two meats, a cheese plate and two desserts.

The chef makes his rounds and chats with the regulars. This is one of Spain's first three star Michelin restaurants and reservations are a must. The decor is traditional with the dining area being spacious but not large and retains intimacy. The clientele is mainly older patrons, most of whom are locals.