TXOKO is a Basque word meaning a closed gastronomical society. The first known txoko was in Donostia or San Sebastian, depending on your politics - the last mention of which will be made here because it's not for discussion once you've gone inside.

Txokos have been in existence for almost 150 years, but they are in essence a modern movement of informal groups each of which meet regularly to eat, drink, talk and sing. 

During the Franco years (1939-1975) these gastronomical societies were to prove a refuge for many Basques. Because the constitutions of most txokos prohibited the discussion of politics on the premises, people could meet there without any state control. They would speak Basque, sing Basque songs, and would do so while drinking and eating well.

This website seeks to emulate the best traditions of the txoko in creating an environment in which the very best of Irish food and drink can be celebrated and developed. We want to seek out and embrace diversity and basic excellence, and be inspired by what we find overseas.

The txoko has been at the heart of Basque cuisine’s modern development. Traditional dishes have been rescued or resurrected, and experimentation has fed innovation. We seek to prove that quality and accessibility need not be independent of one another, that a superior gastronomic experience can be both highly refined and affordable. 

We believe that Irish cuisine can become more highly evolved with better attitudes and processes.