The establishment was opened by the couple Miguel Gurrutxaga and María Lonbide, and is currently managed by their daughter, Jaione. The opening took place on the eve of the Santikutz festivities, on April 29, 1961, the same day the adjacent Caribe bar also opened.

Both Miguel and María had prior experience in hospitality; he had worked in his parents' winery, and she at the Kupela winery. They opened the bar shortly after getting married, at ages 28 and 25, while she was pregnant. Initially, Miguel continued working at the Patricio Echeverría factory but eventually left to dedicate himself fully to the bar.

In its early days, Gurrutxaga was predominantly a male establishment, known for card games, drinks, and cigars. It also served meals to workers from nearby factories. Even then, Gurrutxaga's pintxos were highly regarded in Legazpi. Today, the bar counter is typically laden with pintxos, and they also offer portions and sandwiches. On weekends, it's a popular dinner spot for many locals, and its terrace is always bustling.

The Gurrutxaga is a true symbol of Legazpi, a fact evident in Friday's anniversary celebration, which featured giants, dulzainero players, txistularis, and bertsolaris. Pintxos and ham were served to all who attended, and Jaione and her colleagues received the affection of the entire town.