Yesterday was one of the (relatively) rare festival days in San Sebastián-the Basque Country’s rowing races. Residents of nearby towns like Orio, Zarautz, Hondarribia, San Pedro, and more gathered in San Sebastián to see their respective teams race around the Concha Bay at noon. This, of course, meant meeting around ten in the morning and a post-race celebration; in other words, a day in the streets.
In the United States, in places like New York, Austin, and Los Angeles, this would mean food trucks. But in a country where that fad has not taken root, it means if you don’t feel like fighting the crowds in the pintxo bars, you have to bring your own food.
Cue ubiquitous foil wrapped mystery food. This is Basque home-cooking made to carry…the bocadillo de tortilla. It’s a Spanish omelette, sandwiched between a baguette, and wrapped carefully in foil alongside a liter of Coca-Cola and a box of red wine. It’s the official Basque street food of the under-40 set. Also spotted: chorizo, tuna, and cheese and jamón bocadillos. Paired with the typical festival drink of Basque Country, kalimotxo, it’s the shining example of a well rounded festival day street meal.