Hungarian restaurant news every foodie needs to know – PHOTOS
Unfortunately, the outbreak of the novel coronavirus pandemic and the following restrictions caused numerous hardships in the economy, and undoubtedly one of the most affected areas were the catering and food service industries.
While we may see the light at the end of the tunnel, the past period of uncertainty has caused many iconic and renowned culinary establishments to close down all around Hungary, including Budapest.
1. Kárpátia closed down
One of the first major, well-known restaurants to close down was Kárpátia. The distinguished establishment, which was serving guests for nearly 140 years, was finally brought to its knees by the pandemic.
Standing proudly since 1877, the building of the restaurant was a piece of history itself, reflecting 19th-century Hungary. You can read more about the circumstances of its closing HERE.
2. Olimpia Restaurant closed down
Located near the Keleti Railway Station, one of the central transport hubs of Budapest, the restaurant aimed to create a daily gourmet menu by using freshly sourced ingredients.
“Our aim was to make cheap food out of expensive ingredients in a low-budget, cumulatively disadvantaged location,” – Csaba Ádám the head of the restaurant said. You can read about their decision in more detail in THIS article.
3. Csalogány 26 Restaurant closed down
This is particularly bad news for foodies since Csalogány served as one of Budapest’s favourite restaurants.
The establishment was located between Batthyány Square and Széll Kálmán Square. It was a small, family-friendly restaurant and had the ambiance of a retro dining place, offering a great gastronomic experience. Find out more about the circumstances of its closing HERE.
4. Szent Donát Borkúria closed down as well
Located in the neighbourhood of Balaton, it had a terrace with one of the most stunning views of the area.
Although the beloved restaurant, formerly known as Márga, has closed down, it is not a definite goodbye. The place will go through a transformation and turn into a wine tasting establishment. For more details, click on THIS article.
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5. Papok Borozója has also closed down
Forbes reported that the establishment in Balatonszőlős, tucked in the northern side of the Hungarian sea, has ended its multi-generational career.
According to the news outlet, the restaurant had a fine kitchen and outstanding service. Sadly, there is no explanation of why the restaurant had to close its doors.
However, fortunately, we can also report some good news. Several establishments used the lockdown period to get a makeover or find new ways to operate.
6. Gundel Restaurant has reopened
Source: facebook.com/gundelrestaurant
Famed all over the world, the iconic Hungarian restaurant and coffee house also had to close down, the very first time after its 125 years of operation. However, it was just a temporary shutdown during which the owners took the opportunity to renew the interior of the establishment.
Their aim was to recapture the lively vibes from an extinct era when visitors of all classes used to come by Gundel for a delicious meal or snack.
7. The Babel Restaurant reopens
According to Forbes, the Michelin star restaurant had to close its door at the beginning of the pandemic, and since then it has changed some of its staff as well.
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The news outlet wrote that the new chef consultant will be Danial Berlin Krog, who formerly managed a prestigious Swedish restaurant that received two Michelin stars and was nominated as one of the world’s best 50 restaurants.
8. Petrus reopens
Petrus provided one of the best money-for-value fine dining experiences in Budapest. The French restaurant even gained the Bib Gourmand title from Michelin Guide, but it sadly lost it during the time it had to close down. According to Forbes, however, it will reopen and await foodies from March.
Read also5 of the best waffle places you must not miss when visiting Budapest
Source: Forbes.hu, Daily News Hungary