One of the most memorable meals I never had

While I was on vacation in Donostia, one of the loveliest cities in Euskady, I went dining late at night on tapas around the Catedral de San Sebastian. One of the taps bars there had a huge platter of some red and white seafood, looking a little like chopped up octopus tentacles, which turned out to be barnacles, a local speciality. Unfortunately for me on my backpackers budget, they came in at a hefty 30 Euros per plate. I asked to have a smaller portion, just to try the flavor, as neither myself nor my SO had ever tried them; but although the other patrons (locals) pleaded my case with the bartender, he refused. So alas, I cannot tell you what they tested like. But that barman did not give me fond memories of spanish hospitality. (I should say that this was an informal place, where he microwaved portions of food at the bar as the barflies asked for them, so such a request wasnt outrageous).

Still, I have fond memories of Donostia. I gather its a place where the snooty spaniards head when on vacation; Hamptons style.