Seemor
Donostia RestaurantB+Worth Trying
10 Seymour Pl, London W1H 7ND
· Basque restaurant, European restaurant, Spanish restaurant
· 4.5/5 Google (764 reviews)
Donostia delivers vibrant Basque-inspired tapas with standout cheesecake and attentive staff, but expect high prices, small portions, and occasional service hiccups.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Donostia delivers exceptional food quality—particularly its legendary cheesecake and tortilla—with attractive central setting and strong destination appeal for Spanish cuisine enthusiasts. However, quality inconsistencies, variable service attentiveness, and historical food safety concerns prevent grade A territory. Worth visiting for the standout dishes and lively atmosphere, but expect occasional execution lapses and small portions at premium pricing.
Restaurant Summary
Donostia Restaurant brings the flavors of the Basque Country to Marylebone, serving up vibrant tapas and a legendary Basque cheesecake that has diners swooning. The atmosphere is lively and energetic, especially at the bar where you can watch the chefs in action. Expect a bustling vibe, friendly (if sometimes harried) staff, and a menu that leans on premium Spanish ingredients—think Ibérico pork, wild prawns, and creamy croquetas. Reservations are a must for peak times, and the open kitchen adds a dash of theater to your meal. Culinarily, Donostia sticks to a classic Basque and Spanish tapas approach with a few modern flourishes—creative pintxos, dry-aged ribeye, and caviar-topped crab make appearances, but the heart of the menu is traditional. This is a spot for those who appreciate authentic flavors and high-quality ingredients over avant-garde experimentation. Portions are on the small side, so be prepared to order several dishes per person (and don't skip the cheesecake!). For families: While there are a few approachable options like tortilla, patatas bravas, and tomato salad, the menu is not especially kid-focused. Some families have enjoyed meals here, but others found the wait times and limited kid-friendly choices challenging. If your children are adventurous eaters, they'll find something to enjoy, but picky eaters may struggle. The lively, sometimes noisy atmosphere may also be overwhelming for younger kids. Menu reality check: The current menu offers limited vegetarian and no vegan mains, so plan accordingly if dietary needs are a concern.
At a Glance
- Standout Basque cheesecake and tortilla—must-try dishes.
- Lively, authentic Spanish ambiance with open kitchen and bar seating.
- Portions are small and prices are high for the quantity.
- Service can be slow or inattentive during busy times, especially downstairs.
- Limited vegetarian/vegan options—menu is not suitable for strict plant-based diets.
What Sets It Apart
- signature_basque_cheesecake
- open_kitchen_bar_seating
- authentic_basque_tapas
What People Love
- The creamy, unforgettable Basque cheesecake
- Authentic Spanish flavors that transport you to San Sebastián
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff (especially at the bar)
- Watching chefs prepare dishes in the open kitchen
- Fresh, high-quality ingredients in every dish
Points of Concern
- Small portions and high prices are a frequent complaint—expect to order multiple dishes per person.
- Service can be inconsistent, with some diners experiencing long waits or inattentive staff, especially in the basement dining area.
- Noise levels can be high during peak times, making conversation difficult.
- Vegetarian and vegan options are limited; menu is not suitable for strict plant-based diets.
- A few older reviews mention cleanliness issues, but these are not reflected in recent feedback.
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost£45-60 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- Order at least 2-3 tapas and a main per person for a satisfying meal.
- Don't miss the Basque cheesecake (£8-10) for dessert.
- Vegetarians should focus on tortilla, tomato salad, and patatas bravas.
- Budget £45-60 per person for a full meal, more with drinks.
Perfect For
- Date nights or special occasions with a Spanish twist
- Foodies seeking authentic Basque tapas and premium ingredients
- Solo diners who enjoy bar seating and chef interaction
- Groups of friends looking for a lively, energetic meal
Location Insights
Area: Marylebone is an upscale, cosmopolitan neighborhood with a mix of affluent residents, boutique shops, and destination dining. The vibe is lively but refined, attracting both locals and food-focused visitors.
Safety: Generally very safe, well-lit, and well-maintained with high foot traffic, especially in the evenings.
Nearby: Close to Oxford Street, Hyde Park, and boutique hotels; surrounded by other restaurants, cafes, and specialty food shops.
Marylebone VillageA sophisticated urban village with a mix of boutique restaurants, high-end cafes, and refined dining establishments. The area offers a cosmopolitan dining scene with a blend of traditional British and international culinary options.
Marylebone NorthA slightly more relaxed and contemporary section of Marylebone, featuring trendy restaurants and boutique dining experiences.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday17:30–22:30
Tuesday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:30
Wednesday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:30
Thursday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:30
Friday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:30
Saturday12:00–15:00, 17:30–22:30
Sunday16:30–21:00
View full analysis on Seemor →