SPAIN EXPLORING pintxo IN SAN SEBASTIAN

In this glitzy, seaside resort town in Basque Country, locals in black berets mingle with tourists along the narrow, stone streets edged by the gleaming Bay of La Concha, just 12 miles from the border with France.

You know it’s a mecca for foodies because there are currently five Michelin-starred restaurants in this city of fewer than 200,000 people, including Arzak and Akelare, both honored with the premier three stars for 2013.

But you don’t have to drop a bundle and reserve your spot far in advance to explore some of the finest Basque cuisine. That’s because you’re in the birthplace of the pintxo (pronounced pin-cho) and there’s no shortage of places where you can sample this ultimate finger food.

Pintxo bars aren’t as upscale as the starred restaurants, of course. But they offer an appealing gastronomic experience that melds tradition and innovation with the Basque love of fresh, local ingredients and the camaraderie that comes from sharing food and drink in a casual atmosphere with friends and family.