CHEZ MATTIN

Hidden culinary gem for those seeking to try authentic French Basque cuisine. My partner and I went without a reservation on a Thursday afternoon at around 1pm (this was our fault as we decided to do a spontaneous road trip and explore the French Basque region) and it was completely packed. However, instead of turning us down, our host Céline explained that while they were extremely busy at the moment, a table could be arranged for us if we were open to the idea of waiting. We were then offered a couple of seats outside the establishment and Céline followed up with a couple of menus and some refreshments.snacks. The latter was a really nice gesture as we were both pretty hungry and had no idea how long the wait would be. After a 30-45 minute wait, we were ushered into our seats. From beginning to end, the staff was extremely attentive and friendly. The restaurant was nicely decorated with Basque artefacts and most importantly. the food was very delicious (specially the ttoro and tripes). A neat selection of Basque wines was also available to order. We finished the meal with the riz au lait and a cup of coffee. Upon asking for our bill, we discovered that Céline had decided to comp the refreshments and snacks to compensate for the wait. Overall, we were simply amazed at the team at Chez Mattin for all the steps taken to provide amazing service and spectacular food to two total walk-in strangers in the middle of a weekday. Establishments like these are the entire package and a warm reminder that good hospitality still exists in the food industry. My partner and I can't recommend this place highly enough and we both look forward to the day we get to taste their menu again. PS. Make sure to make a reservation!

We really enjoyed the food and service at this authentic restaurant. The fish was absolutely fresh and delicious. The chocolate desert was to die for. The service was exceptionally friendly. Easy 5 stars.

This is the reason I came to France. All the food has been really good, but this was next level. My wife and I shared each course and it was plated individually knowing we were going to share.

Dinner at Chez Mattin near the harbor in St Jean de Luz. Anthony Bourdain said "if you only have time for one meal, this is probably the one" and we couldnt agree more. A small family restaurant run by Chef Michel in the kitchen and his wife Céline in the front of house. Tucked away in a residential neighborhood near the harbor, a small unassuming entrance leads you into a comfortable dining room that feels like you could be in someone's home. As the evening progressed the restaurant filled mainly with locals, repeat guests we assumed due to their greeting by the owners. The food was exceptional with seafood as the focus. the scallops and sole were were perfectly cooked, and their famous Ttoro (a traditional Basque fish soup) was outstanding.

Chez Mattin feels like one of those places you just stumble upon and instantly know you’re in for something special. There's no fixed menu here, it’s all about what’s fresh from the market that day. This means every visit is a little different, with dishes that are both locally rooted and adventurous. We tried some truly unforgettable plates, from fresh seafood to creative spins on classic Basque flavors. If you're in Ciboure and looking for something real, unpretentious, and delicious, Chez Mattin is the spot.

The most amazing experience and lunch at Chez MATTIN! I discovered it on a tourism video and it did not disappoint! We went with the intention of having their famous specialty fish stew and wow was it delicious and packed full of seafood! We were also served a complimentary amuse bouche that was very good ! The host and I’m guessing owner was incredibly friendly,great sense of humour and absolutely on top of everything! She was already to attempt to explain the menu to us in English when we said we wanted the fish stew! A huge smile and relief came over her face ! Haha! She suggested the soufflé for dessert which was delicious ! A very friendly restaurant ! Reservations are a must! It was incredible to see the flock to the restaurant and see it absolutely full with minutes of open! Everyone was taken care of by a fabulous group of staff! We also enjoyed a glass of white wine and were pleased to see it was €5.00.

This is my new favorite restaurant in France. It's just a 35-minute drive from the center of San Sebastian (about 15 minutes from Biarritz) and is well worth whatever effort you have to make to visit. Each dish is a feast for the senses, beautiful, flavorful, and well textured. And the sauces were exquisite! To top it all off, the service was excellent. I felt at home from the minute I arrived. A huge thank you to Chef David from Bistro Ondaretta in San Sebastian for the recommendation. I feel positively spoiled to live so close to such wonderful restaurants!

Chez Mattin offers a delightful culinary experience. The food is delicious, and the service is exceptional. The owner's warmth and attention to detail elevate the dining experience. A must-visit for those seeking both exceptional cuisine and hospitality.