drink

A guide to the most famous Hungarian wines and grape varieties

Hungary, with its rich winemaking history, produces a variety of exceptional wines that are celebrated worldwide. It is a common misconception that Hungary solely excels at making dessert wines. Therefore, here is a handy guide to some of the most famous Hungarian wines.

Tokaji Aszú

Known as the “Wine of Kings, King of Wines,” Tokaji Aszú is a highly popular sweet dessert wine from the Tokaj region. It is primarily made from Furmint grapes, and features flavours of apricot, honey, and nuts, with vibrant acidity and significant ageing potential. Wine enthusiasts who are not necessarily great fans of sweet wines have also noted that this Hungarian wine is phenomenal.

Egri Bikavér / Bull’s Blood of Eger

Egri Bikavér, or Bull’s Blood of Eger, is a robust red blend made from mainly Kékfrankos and Kadarka grapes. It is known for its deep ruby colour and rich, spicy flavours, making it a favourite among red wine lovers. It might be quite self-explanatory, but Bull’s Blood was named after its blood-like colour.

Furmint

Furmint is undoubtedly a special grape variety with a unique flavour. Furmint, primarily from Tokaj and Somló, is used in both sweet and dry wines. Dry Furmint is noted for its crisp acidity, minerality, and flavours ranging from citrus to honey, reflecting Hungary’s volcanic soils.

Kékfrankos

Are you a fan of red Hungarian wines? Kékfrankos, or Blaufränkisch, is a grape variety that thrives in Hungary, particularly in the regions of Sopron and Eger. This red wine is prized for its elegance, featuring flavours of dark cherry, blackberry, and spice, supported by good acidity and fine tannins. Kékfrankos wines are versatile, pairing well with a variety of dishes, and have the potential to age gracefully, gaining complexity with time.

Irsai Olivér

Looking for something fresh and fruity on a summer night? Irsai Olivér is a light, aromatic white wine you must try. This grape variety is grown in various regions across Hungary, producing wines with floral and citrus notes, making it an ideal choice for summer sipping. Its light body and vibrant acidity make Irsai Olivér a delightful aperitif or a versatile companion to light dishes and salads.

Kadarka

Kadarka is a traditional Hungarian grape variety that produces light to medium-bodied red wines. Although we could argue that this grape variety is not of Hungarian origins, as it was brought to the Carpathian Basin by the Rascians, it is nowadays considered a key element of traditional Hungarian winemaking. Kadarka is predominantly grown in the Szekszárd and Villány regions, these wines are known for their spicy and fruity flavours, with notes of red berries, pepper, and earth. This wine is cherished for its distinctive taste and versatility at the table.

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June 24, 2024

Want to drink cheap, quality beer? Come to Budapest!

According to Eurostat, the cost of beer is the lowest in Hungary in the European Union, but a recent Numbeo survey found that it is only one of the lowest ones because, for example, Prague precedes it with 10 euro cents. Anyway, if you want to drink cheap beer to make this scorching summer heat bearable, come to Budapest!

Cheap quality beer in Hungary

According to Világgazdaság, Numbeo is a website comparing prices of different products based on data generated by its users. Therefore, their data might be a bit misleading, but still useful.

According to a Eurostat survey published in April, draught beer prices range between EUR 2.04 and 2.55 in Budapest. As a result, Hungary is among the cheapest beer places in Europe, in one league with Moldova and Georgia. We detailed that survey in THIS article.

cheap quality beer — Source: depositphotos.com

Based on Numbeo, the most expensive beer is in Rejkjavík in Europe, where you have to pay EUR 10 for 0.5l. Oslo with EUR 9.6, and Copenhagen with EUR 8 top the list.

Debrecen beer prices lower

Meanwhile, Hungary is at the end of the list with only EUR 2.5/0.5l for draught beer. Ankara, Türkiye’s capital, precedes Hungary with EUR 2.9, while Bratislava (Pozsony, Slovakia), Tirana (Albania) and Prague (Czechia) fell behind with EUR 2.5 and 2.4. In the region, Moldova’s capital, Chișinău, is the cheapest. Draught beer costs only EUR 1.9/0.5l there.

Of course, the price depends on where you drink your beer. Világgazdaság says the Hungarian EUR 2.5 average draught beer cost is based on the data of the Numbeo users enjoying their drink in a downtown pub. In Debrecen, you have to pay only EUR 1.3 for the same beer. We wrote about why Debrecen is not Europe’s most depressing city HERE.

Debrecen foreign tourists cheap quality beer — Debrecen is where you can find cheap quality beer. Photo: depositphotos.com

Beer prices skyrocketed in the last few years

According to Világgazdaság, beer prices increased significantly after the COVID-19 pandemic. A couple of years ago, you could drink your beer in Budapest for only EUR 1 and do the same in Prague. In Germany, you had to pay only EUR 2, but now it costs EUR 4.

You can now drink the cheapest beer in Kyiv (EUR 1.1), Minsk (EUR 1.2) and Chișinău (EUR 1.3). Those are probably also downtown beer prices, so it might happen that the real prices in Ukraine, Belarus and Moldova are even lower.

cheap quality Beer Hungary — Photo: FB/Evezős Sörkert

However, in Budapest and Hungary, there are many other things to see and try out apart from the good and cheap beer. HERE are ten unusual things to do in the Hungarian capital.

Read also:

Beer has become brutally expensive in Hungary – Read more HERE
Europe’s cheapest beer, right HERE in Hungary

Featured image: illustration

June 21, 2024

FloeWater: Eva Mendes is the face of the new Hungarian drink!

FloeWater is launching crystal clear, double-filtered drinking water with unique filtration technology. The face of the new Hungarian drink will be no other than Eva Mendes!

FloeWater is launching its crystal-clear, double-filtered drinking water in 250 ml and 500 ml aluminium cans, made with unparalleled filtration technology, TV2 reports. American actress Eva Mendes immediately said yes to the new Hungarian water.

FloeWater: crystal clear water

FloeWater holds the title of the most popular ready-to-drink (RTD) beverage on Earth. The category is about to undergo a transformation with its new product, bottled water. The company aims to redefine the rules of beverage production, Világgazdaság writes.

The brand has also introduced a ground-breaking innovation in water treatment, taking it to a new level with the first-of-its-kind innovation, the CrystalTower process.

The launch of FloeWater in aluminium cans is one of our most significant and exciting product innovations this year, as we are using a revolutionary new filtration technology and entering a new category thanks to the pre-packaged format. Not to mention the fact that a true Hollywood star, the glamorous Eva Mendes, has become the face of the brand,” says Adrienn Popovics, Hell’s Marketing Director.

The new Hungarian water will be available from mid-June.

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June 16, 2024

On the hunt for the best café in Budapest: 3 unique coffee shops – PHOTOS

The weather in Hungary has been blessing us lately with many sunny hours and pleasant temperatures. Thus, my friend and I had the idea of going out for coffee at least once a week and enjoying our favourite drinks outside. Our not-so-secret quest was to hunt down the best café in Budapest. We have visited three very different and unique coffee places in the last months, so here is our takeaway *pun intended*.

Flatty Coffee Shop

Our first stop last month was Flatty Coffee Shop, and we were quite content with our choice. First, we were curious about the hype, as we have seen this coffee shop all over TikTok and Instagram. When we arrived, we already knew what we wanted. According to the videos we had previously seen on social media, the café’s main specialities were the tiramisu latte and the matchamisu latte. However, Flatty also offers more traditional coffee options and a great variety of sandwiches as well.

This time, we went for the tiramisu latte which was refreshing and not overly sweet. What may be odd about this café in Budapest is that you cannot sit down, you only have the option to ask for a takeaway. However, it is located between Kálvin Square and Fővám Square, thus you can walk to a peaceful spot to enjoy your drink.

Chez Dodo Artisan Macarons and Cafe

The next destination was Chez Dodo Artisan Macarons and Cafe, located in the heart of Budapest. You can find this café in downtown Budapest, in a cosy little street near Deák Ferenc Square and the Basilica. The owner, Dodo, had been an admirer of the French macarons, thus she decided to bring them home and perfect the art of making them. When we arrived, we stood by the window for a while to witness the process of making these delicious sweets.

As we stepped inside, we were welcomed by a very cheerful staff. We were quite frankly shocked by the selection of macarons and mignons. From fruity flavours to chocolatey ones, we could find everything we had ever dreamed of. As pistachio enthusiasts, we had to go for a pistachio macaron and mignon. The French delicacies were excellent, and so was the coffee. Overall, Chez Dodo is a cosy and beautiful café in Budapest that provides a unique experience.

Mokka Cukka

To shake things up a bit, this time we wanted to explore a new café in Budapest while enjoying a tasty brunch. We have previously collected a list of brunch and coffee spots that we would like to visit, so we randomly pointed at one. The next minute, we were headed to Mokka Cukka, just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Parliament. This brunch spot is located on a peaceful street, so it is highly recommended that you sit outside and enjoy the weather.

Mokka Cukka offers all-day breakfast, breakfast cocktails, coffee specialities and lunch options as well. The Eggs Benedict with Hungarian ham was mind-blowing and the coffee art was a pleasant surprise. The staff was thoughtful, making sure that we had a great experience. While it is impossible to choose the best café in Budapest out of such unique places, Mokka Cukka has a special place in our hearts from now on.

Mokka Cukka café — Source: Daily News Hungary / Fanni Forgács

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June 4, 2024

Coffee in Budapest among the best in Europe!

Coffee in Budapest might not be the first thing that comes to your mind regarding the Hungarian capital’s tourism. A recent search by Ubuy investigated the top travel destinations in Europe for coffee lovers. The Hungarian capital’s rich coffee culture secured a prestigious position on the top 20 list. Here’s what makes Budapest so special for coffee enthusiasts.

Ubuy’s list

As Lelépő writes, the research conducted by Ubuy analysed three factors: the density of cafés per person, the average cost of a cup of coffee, and the summertime sunshine hours. It may not be surprising that three beautiful sunny European capitals took the podium. Athens, the capital of Greece, claimed the first position, followed by Lisbon in second place, and Rome in third. Here is the top ten list:

Athens
Lisbon
Rome
Madrid
Nicosia
Budapest
Andorra la Vella
Tirana
Bratislava
Monaco

Coffee in Budapest

As mentioned above, there were three main points taken into consideration when making the list. According to the findings, Budapest boasts 260 exceptional coffee establishments, providing excellent value according to European standards. Additionally, the Hungarian capital’s 776 summer hours of sunshine contributed to its impressive sixth-place ranking.

Historical cafés

When we talk about coffee in Budapest, we cannot go without mentioning historical cafés in the city. Budapest’s café culture boasts a rich history, with several iconic establishments dating back to the 19th century. Just to mention a few outstanding historical cafés, Gerbeaud Café, founded in 1858, epitomises traditional elegance and serves exquisite pastries. New York Café, opened in 1894, is renowned for its opulent decor and literary gatherings. Café Central, established in 1887, has long been a hub for intellectuals and features grand interiors. Café Gerlóczy, tucked away in a quaint courtyard, offers a cosy yet contemporary atmosphere. These historical cafés not only provide exceptional coffee in Budapest but also offer insights into the city’s cultural heritage.

New York coffeehouse — Source: https://newyorkcafe.hu/en/

Coffee chains

In case you would like to opt for something familiar when getting coffee in Budapest, there are numerous chains in Hungary as well. In Budapest, you will find a blend of global and domestic coffee chains. Among them are big names like Costa Coffee and Starbucks, alongside with local favourites such as McCafé and Tchibo Café. Adding to this diverse landscape, Café Frei caters to a range of tastes across the country. We can only assure you that you will find something unique in Café Frei that accommodates your preferences.

Small businesses

In addition to historical cafés and coffee chains, small café businesses also play a key role in Budapest‘s coffee culture. They offer unique atmospheres, often emphasising local flavours and fostering a sense of community through events and support for local artists. These establishments pride themselves on creativity and personalised service, providing visitors with memorable experiences distinct from larger chains. Sometimes getting coffee in Budapest from a small business can make you feel at home.

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May 25, 2024

Hell Energy inaugurates EUR 207 million capacity expansion in Hungary

Hungarian soft drink maker Hell Energy inaugurated an 80 billion forint (EUR 206.7 million) capacity expansion at its base in Szikszó, in north-eastern Hungary, on Friday.

The expansion will create 240 jobs, Péter Szijjártó, the minister of foreign affairs and trade, said at the inauguration, according to a ministry statement.

The joint investment by Hell Energy and its canning unit, Quality Pack, will enable the production of around 4 billion cans of beverage and 6 billion filled finished products, Szijjártó said.

The investment will strengthen Hell Energy’s position as market leader not only in Hungary, but also in Romania, Bulgaria, Greece, Cyprus and Croatia and could further expand its export market currently consisting of over 60 countries, he said.

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May 25, 2024

5 fun facts about the Hungarian pálinka

The Hungarian pálinka is a fruit spirit with a rich history and fascinating characteristics. Whether you are a fan of fruit brandies or just interested in exploring different cultural beverages, pálinka offers an insight into Hungary’s soul. Here are some interesting facts you might not have known about this special alcoholic beverage.

Variety of fruits and regions

Hungarian pálinka can be made from a variety of fruits including apricots, plums, apples, pears, cherries, and quinces. Each type of fruit gives the pálinka a distinct flavour and aroma. In addition, each region in Hungary has its own style and flavour characteristics. Specific fruits may be more popular in a certain region than in others.

Protected geographical indication

Pálinka enjoys a protected geographical indication (PGI) status within the European Union, which means that only fruit brandies produced in Hungary and four specific regions of Austria (Burgenland, Lower Austria, Styria, and Vienna) using traditional methods can be labelled as pálinka. This protection aims to preserve the authenticity and heritage of the drink, similar to how “Champagne” can only refer to sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France. The PGI status ensures that pálinka maintains its high quality and traditional production methods, safeguarding it from imitations.

The rich history of Hungarian pálinka

Hungarian pálinka has a storied history that stretches back to the Middle Ages. The first written documentation of pálinka, referred to as “Aqua vitae reginae Hungariae” (the water of life of the Queen of Hungary), dates back to 1332. This early reference highlights the long-standing tradition of distillation in Hungary. Historically, Hungarian pálinka was not only enjoyed for its flavour but was also valued for its perceived medicinal properties. Over the centuries, pálinka evolved from a medicinal tonic into a beloved national spirit.

A medical remedy?

Speaking of healing powers… Hungarian pálinka was often used as a home remedy for various ailments. This belief can be traced back to the early use of distilled spirits in Europe, where they were commonly referred to as “aqua vitae” or “water of life.” It is believed that pálinka is a digestive aid, a remedy for colds, an antiseptic and an effective pain relief. While modern medicine has largely replaced these traditional uses, some Hungarians still swear by the medical benefits of pálinka, particularly as a digestif.

Fun festivals and competitions

Pálinka is celebrated through various festivals and competitions across Hungary, highlighting its cultural significance and the craftsmanship behind its production. These events offer an excellent opportunity for locals and tourists to experience the rich variety of pálinka and learn more about its history and production methods. You can find the most famous pálinka festivals in Budapest and Gyula. In some cases, pálinka festivals come hand in hand with sausage festivals in Hungary, so you will not be hungry either!

These festivals are not just about tasting; they often include cultural programmes, music, dance, and food, providing a comprehensive cultural experience. Competitions held during these festivals help maintain high standards within the industry by recognising and rewarding excellence in pálinka production.

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May 21, 2024

World-known celebrities bring their wines to Hungary: try the drinks of Jon Bon Jovi, Sting, Brad Pitt!

If you’re a fan of (Hungarian) wines, we’ve got just the perfect event for you this week! The programme of the XIIth Avasi Wine Tour (XII. Avasi Borangolás) will be further expanded this year: visitors will be able to taste the wines of real world stars in Miskolc between 16-19 May.

From Thursday, the 12th edition of the Avasi Wine Tour will feature 62 wineries at 80 venues in Miskolc. If you’re looking for music programmes, you will not be bored either: 18 concerts will be held on three stages, while street musicians will add to the atmosphere in the cellar rows and wine cellars, turizmus.com reports.

avasi wine tour 2023 — Photo: borangolas.hu

The organisers have prepared a number of novelties this year: for example, wines from the wineries of famous people who have made their mark in film, music or sporting history will be brought to festival-goers.

World-known celebrities’ wines to Hungary

Andrés Iniesta, former FC Barcelona and Spanish national team star midfielder turned world and European champion will showcase his best wines;
Francis Ford Coppola Winery’s masterpieces come straight from the heart of the film world in California;
the wines of Sting, the British star of international pop music, come to us from Tuscany;
Hampton Water, the French winery that Jon Bon Jovi shares with his son Jesse, will also be showcased at the XIIth Avasi Wine Tour;
One of the defining voices of soul, r’n’b and pop, Mary J. Blige’s Sun Goddess label will also be on show at the festival;
Snoop Dogg’s own wine,
and special rosé champagnes from Chateau Miraval, the Brad Pitt brand, will also be on offer for those attending the event.

Wines from Hungary can be tasted as well

In addition to the wines of these world stars, a wide range of Hungarian wineries will also be represented at the Miskolc festival. What is more, it’s not just the wine list that is new to the festival, but also the music genres. Visitors who choose the bar pianists’ concerts late on a Friday evening will be treated to a real special experience, turizmus.com writes.

avasi wine tour 2023 2 — Photo: borangolas.hu

In 2024, the Avasi Wine Tour will be extended to four days. The first two days after the professional day will be dedicated to the lively and bustling music and dance programmes, together with wine-tasting, while on the fourth day, festival-goers are invited to a picnic. The renovated Avasi Lookout (Avasi kilátó) and its surroundings will be a new venue.

All but one of the Avasi Wine Tasting events are free of charge. For the Áts Károly x Günzer Tamás wine tasting, advance ticket purchase is required.

avasi wine tour 2022 — Photo: borangolas.hu

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May 15, 2024

Here’s how to use the flower of May in your cooking: 4 recipies with elderflower

The elderflower is one of the most significant and beloved flowers of May. It is one of the most common plants in Hungary that you can find almost everywhere in the countryside.

Apart from using its dark purple berry, (which is poisonous in itself) as raw material for medicine manufacturing, its fragrant white flower is also full of vitamins and is a popular ingredient in syrups, jams and lemonade. Its characteristic flavour is associated with childhood memories and summer vacations for many people. We collected some of the most popular ways of preparing it below, so you can get a taste of the summer.

Elderflower lemonade

Elderflower’s sweet flavour goes well with lemon’s sourness in general. One of the most popular ways of using the flower is, not surprisingly, in a lemonade. Served with ice, it is truly a refreshing drink in the summer that will probably soon become one of your favourites.

Ingredients:

5 litre water
400 g sugar
2 lemons
2 tablespoons of citric acid
8-10 elderflower heads

Preparation:

Put all the ingredients into a bowl and leave it for a night to set. Serve with ice.

Elderflower syrup

Another favourite is the elderflower syrup, which you can also season your drinks with (e. g. lemonade, or any alcoholic beverage) for a unique taste. The non-alcoholic version consists of syrup, sparkling water, a few slices of lemon, and ice.

Ingredients:

1 litre water
1000 g sugar
1 lemon
10 elderflower heads
10 g citric acid

Preparation:

To make a syrup, boil the water with the sugar. Cool it down. Pour it into a jar.
Leave it to rest for five days in a cold, dark place.
Close the lid with plastic wrap and put the cap on. Kept in a cold, dark place, it stays fresh for months.

Elderflower fritters

It might seem unusual to deep fry a flower at first, but it absolutely worth a try. Elderflower fritters taste similar to pancakes, but the flowers give this delicious dessert a unique taste. You can dust them with powdered sugar, or drizzle them with honey, but they go really well with any kind of jam or compote like rhubarb or any seasonal fruit. You can also serve them with vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients:

10 elderflower heads
flour
2 eggs
1.5 dl cream
0.5 lemon
1 tbsp powdered sugar
1 vanilla sugar
oil

Preparation:

Wash the flowers carefully, and let the water drip down afterwards.
Beat the eggs with the cream, then mix them with vanilla sugar, powdered sugar, a pinch of salt, and lemon peel. Add flour to the mixture until it becomes thick, similar to pancake batter.
Half-fill a saucepan with oil, then heat it. Gently put the elderflower heads (one by one) into the batter, and carefully put them into the oil. Press them down a little, this way the flower head will open up. Turn them around in the oil occasionally and cook them until both sides are golden brown. Drain them on kitchen paper.
Serve it with powdered sugar or with a drizzle of honey. Best when it is still a little bit warm.

Elderflower jelly

Ingredients:

12 elderflower heads
1 lime
1 litre apple juice
40 dkg canning sugar

Preparation:

Mix the apple juice with the juice of the lime. Put the washed flowers into the mixture and put it into the fridge for 24 hours.
The next day, take the flowers out of the juice and squeeze them to get any remaining liquid out. Pour the sugar into the mixture and cook it until it boils, then keep cooking it for another 3-4 minutes.
Pour it into 2,5 dl jars to cool down.

Read also:

3 effortless Hungarian desserts to beat the heat
Budapest’s world-famous pastry shop Ruszwurm may close its doors forever – Read here

Source: mindmegette.hu

May 13, 2024

Sensational: Budapest home to Europe’s 3rd best beer festival!

The quality of craft beer in Hungary is high – and nothing shows this better than the fact that Budapest Beer Week was voted the 3rd best craft beer festival in Europe. This year’s festival in the capital will run from 20 May to 26 May.

budapest beer week beer festival — Photo: Facebook/BPBW – Budapest Beer Week

According to Világgazdaság, the recognition recently came from Portugal, where Budapest Beer Week was voted the 3rd best craft beer festival in Europe, after Belgium’s Billie’s Craft Beer Festival and Denmark’s Mikkeller Beer Celebration Copenhagen.

With this, the Budapest event, which has been held since 2018, has overtaken legendary events with a long history, such as the four-day Portuguese Artbeerfest Caminha and the Italian Arrogant Sour Festival.

BPBW Budapest Beer Week 2024 will run from 20 May to 26 May. The main tasting days of the BPBW 2024 will take place on 24 and 25 May in the Dürer Kert, with the free-to-attend encore day on Sunday 26 May.

Europe’s best craft beer festivals

beer week budapest craft beer — Photo: facebook.com/budapestbeerweek

Billie’s Craft Beer Festival
Mikkeller Beer Celebration Copenhagen
Budapest Beer Week
Artbeerfest Caminha
Arrogant Sour Festival

Read also:

May 2, 2024

Gastronomy tourism in Hungary is thriving: what brings people to the country?

Gastronomy tourism in Hungary is thriving. While our small country boasts a perfect blend of cultural wonders, historical monuments, and stunning nature reserves, its unparalleled gastronomy is what brings increasingly more people to the country. The Presidents of the Pannon Academy of Gastronomy and the Hungarian Caterers’ Association explained why they believe gastronomy tourism in Hungary is on the rise.

tourism in hungary gastronomy goulash — Goulash. Photo: depositphotos.com

Gastronomy tourism in Hungary is on the rise, with more and more people coming to the country to experience the best of Hungarian cuisine, the Presidents of the Pannon Academy of Gastronomy and the Hungarian Caterers’ Association told Roadster.

Growing gastronomic tourism in Hungary

According to Balázs Csapody, President of the Pannon Academy of Gastronomy, with the growing gastronomic tourism in Hungary, the number of Michelin-star restaurants could also increase in the country. There are currently two restaurants with 2 Michelin stars, seven with 1 Michelin star and six so-called Bib Gourmand restaurants in the country. Bib Gourmand restaurants are catering establishments with high-quality cuisine, which offer great value for money: high-quality food at a lower price.

Beef rolls with grilled vegetables. Photo: depositphotos.com

There is a demand for these places offering high-quality dishes, with more and more people looking for top quality and making a conscious choice of restaurant, Csapody said.

“More and more people are buying good quality meat or bread from local producers, and some foreigners choose to visit destinations in Hungary for their restaurants and wines,”

he added. According to the expert, the number of guests is likely to increase further this year. He believes that domestic tourism will pick up, and people are expected to spend more as real wages rise.

hungarian gastronomy wine — Hungary is also famous for its exquisite wines. Photo: depositphotos.com

Hungary has great professionals

According to László Kovács, President of the Hungarian Caterers’ Association, the fact that the Hungarian team qualified for the final of the Bocuse d’Or international cooking competition in Lyon this year shows that the country has excellent professionals. “The Hungarians are at the forefront of Europe, and their work has a great impact not only on their immediate environment but also on the profession as a whole,” he stressed.

bocuse d'or hungarian team — The Hungarian Bocuse d’Or team. Source: Facebook/Bocuse d’Or

Kovács added that Hungary’s good position in gastronomy is not only prevalent in the region but also globally. “Hungarian cuisine is world-class”, he said, adding that more and more foreign tourists are arriving in the country with the express intention of getting to know Hungarian gastronomy and trying out a dish. As an example, he mentioned that the diversity of Hungarian soups, like diluted broths and meat soups, ragout soups and concentrated soups, is not typical of many other cultures.

Read also:

April 23, 2024

A beer city? Budapest overtakes Rome and Berlin in a fresh ranking!

A recent survey looked at European cities to rank the best beer destinations. For this summer, legendary beer cities such as Prague are recommended alongside Budapest. In fact, the Hungarian capital landed quite a prestigious place in the ranking.

Budapest in a prestigious place in a new ranking

According to Lelépő, anyone who thinks that only Germany, Belgium and the Czech Republic are famous for beer in Europe is making a big mistake. Referring to a recent survey, even Spain, Portugal and even Hungary produce some brilliant drinks, the Hungarian news portal writes.

Tour operator DFDS looked across the continent, ranking 70 European cities based on around 40,000 Google reviews. They came up with a ranking (which you can find HERE) based on the quality of the drinks, the pubs on offer and the prices.

In the ranking,

Budapest came 4th overall, tied with Thessaloniki and Valencia.

The best beer cities in Europe

cheap beer in Europe — Source: https://depositphotos.com/photo/glasses-different-sorts-craft-beer-wooden-bar-tap-beer-pint-214955468.html

1. Madrid

2. Prague

3. Vienna

4. Budapest, Thessaloniki, Valencia

7. Porto, Brussels

9. Berlin, Vilnius, Krakow

12. Seville

13. Amsterdam, Brno

15. Belgrade, Rome

17. Munich, Warsaw, Bratislava

20. Manchester

Read also:

April 23, 2024

Árpád Classic Gin: Triumph at the London Spirits competition and redefining Hungarian distillation excellence

The annual London Spirits Competition stands as a pinnacle among international spirits competitions, renowned for its prestige and discerning standards.

This year’s event witnessed a remarkable triumph from Hungary, as the gold medal laurels adorned a unique gem previously unseen in the market: Árpád Classic Gin. The London Spirits Competition aims to spotlight and honour spirits that embody not only exceptional quality but also genuine value for consumers, according to Turizmus.com.

Therefore, the scoring process encompasses three key criteria: quality, presentation and the representation of value for money. “Quality holds utmost significance, with entries subjected to meticulous chemical analysis and required to deliver a truly pleasurable drinking experience characterised by balanced alcohol and acidity levels,” states the brewery in a communication to our publication.

Moreover, the visual appeal of the beverage holds significant sway – a meticulously crafted, aesthetically pleasing bottle can serve as a centrepiece in bars, enticing consumers to reach for it on the shelves. Lastly, the aspect of value for money remains crucial: ensuring customers receive genuine value for their investment.

The Árpád Classic Gin

According to the Árpád Pálinka Manufacture’s website, the Árpád Gin is a new product line that aims to fill the gap in the market for natural, flavourful, and distinct gins. With a focus on using fresh ingredients and employing a meticulous distillation process in copper pot stills, Árpád Gin promises to deliver exceptional aromas and flavours.

Each gin in the lineup undergoes extensive experimentation to achieve the desired harmony and elegance, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and expertise accumulated over decades.

Árpád Classic Gin’s exemplary performance across all categories underscores our pride in welcoming this Hungarian gem among the gold medal recipients – the sole representative from Hungary. Year after year, Hungarian producers submit not only gins but an array of spirits. Typically, these entries comprise products already launched in the market, providing valuable insights into consumer preferences and feedback.

However, Árpád Pálinka Manufacture’s decision to rigorously test their products before market release yielded remarkably positive outcomes. Their daring approach bore fruit as evidenced by the awards earned. Alongside the gold medal triumph of Árpád Classic Gin, another contender emerged victorious – Árpád Paprika Gin, crafted from Hungary’s renowned spice, secured a silver medal.

Árpád Paprika Gin — Source: FB / Árpád Pálinka

Árpád Pálinka Manufacture, celebrated for its premium pálinka, embarked on a novel venture this year by introducing a new product line: Árpád Gin. Distinctly reimagining the London Dry style, this gin boasts a zestier citrus profile complemented by an explosion of juniper on the palate. Yet, it is not solely the taste that distinguishes these gins; their packaging is equally exceptional. Sporting an elegantly ribbed bottle and a clean label adorned with intricate micro-relief patterns, Árpád Gin exudes sophistication.

Read also:

Free children’s menu for mobile-free dining in 5 Budapest restaurants! – HERE
Uber in Hungary: Secures dispatching license and launches in Budapest with game-changing partnership! – HERE

April 21, 2024

Free children’s menu for mobile-free dining in 5 Budapest restaurants!

Can you imagine not paying a dime for children’s menus in Budapest restaurants? It is reality! In today’s world, most of us keep our phones close, for whatever reason: work, friends, family, or social media. However, it can be quite disturbing when we’re trying to have a good time eating lunch or dinner with someone important to us and they keep checking their phones. This is what VakVarjú wants to change now: the restaurant family is organising the “Mobile Off, Experience On” programme again in 5 Budapest restaurants.

The “Mobile Off, Experience On” programme will be organised again by the VakVarjú restaurant family in Budapest between 22-28 April. During the week, participants are invited to put their mobile phones in a box for the duration of the meal and spend as many special moments together as possible, turizmus.com reports.

Free children’s menu, but what if there are no children?

If each member of the family agrees to put their mobile phone in a closed box during the meal, children under 14 will receive a free children’s menu at all VakVarjú Budapest restaurants. For couples, a glass of sparkling wine is offered in exchange for a mobile-free dinner. If it’s grandparents and grandchildren eating together, they will all get a Dobay cake slice for free.

“We should strive to live in the moment, ask questions, learn from our grandparents, because they have a great wisdom of life, they can tell us stories about our ancestors, they can give us a sense of belonging”, said Rudolf Semsei, owner of the VakVarjú restaurant family.

“At the fifth “Mobile Off, Experience On” mobile-free week of our family of restaurants, we would like to strengthen this intergenerational connection by sweetening your conversation with a pastry from Dobay confectionery, a member of our restaurant family,” Semsei added.

“We encourage everyone, if they have the opportunity, to reverse the roles this week: let the grandchildren be the ones to invite their grandparents for a meal together, showing the importance of the intergenerational bond. Of course, we also welcome grandparents with smaller grandchildren, in which case the children’s menu is our gift,” he concluded.

How to participate at the VakVarjú Budapest restaurants?

All you have to do is book a table at any of the VakVarjú restaurants between 22-28 April and indicate your interest in participating in the “Mobile Off, Experience On” programme by phone or online when making your reservation.

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April 20, 2024

Magnificent: Time Out Market to open in Budapest’s renewed mall soon! – PHOTOS

Budapest will soon be home to Time Out Market – the food and cultural market that brings the best of the city together under one roof: a curated mix of the best local and home-grown chefs, restaurateurs, drinks and cultural experiences.

Time Out Market Budapest is set to open in 2025 at Corvin Palace at Blaha Lujza Square. The historic department store first opened in 1926 and has recently been renovated back to its original neoclassical state and redeveloped as a mixed-use real estate property offering retail, leisure and a hotel.

Across around 25,000 sq ft indoors on the first floor and a further 9,000 sq ft outdoors on the rooftop, Time Out Market Budapest will feature 14 kitchens, four bars, one event space and around 800 seats. There will be plenty of space to celebrate outstanding culinary and cultural talents – all of them will be local and home- grown from Budapest and the wider region. Guests will be able to enjoy food from award-winning chefs, much-loved local gems and up-and-coming restaurateurs, sip a variety of drinks including cocktails from the most creative mixologists and experience culture and entertainment from rising local talents.

While Time Out Market is dedicated to showcasing the best of the city, its philosophy is to make top, home- grown culinary and cultural experiences accessible for all, with guests coming together at communal tables in a uniquely designed space.

Time Out Market brings the best of the city to the Corvin Palace

Making the people of the city feel at home and a close connection with the city is at the heart of the Time Out Market philosophy which is dedicated to working with local companies and suppliers. As a meaningful addition to the neighbourhood, it will bring significant contribution to the local economy through employment across a variety of skills and new opportunities for home-grown talent.

Time Out Market foods — Photo: Time Out Market

To curate a Time Out Market, the team will come up with a list of the types of cuisines that make a city the vibrant culinary destination it is to then curate a list of the leading, most exciting and most aspirational local representatives in these cuisines. Part of this process is to try and test to find the best of the city right now and then invite the very best to join. But this is not just about ‘big names’; the city’s up-and-coming chefs and much-loved local gems will also be proudly featured.

This will be Time Out Market’s first location in Hungary. The first Time Out Market opened in 2014 in Lisbon as the world’s first editorially curated food and cultural market and further Time Out Markets opened around the world, putting a spotlight on the food and culture scenes of these cities and their diverse talents – while this is now a concept popular across several cities, the execution of each Market is distinctly local.

Discover the exciting new urban cultures

Time Out Market is rooted in the heritage of Time Out – a publication created at a kitchen table in London in 1968 to help people go out better and discover the exciting new urban cultures that had started up all over the city. Today, a global team of local expert journalists curate and create the best things to do, see and eat in 333 cities in 59 countries across websites, social media, video, newsletters, podcasts and live events; now this curation is also brought to life at Time Out Market.

Sandy Hayek, Time Out Market CEO said: “Budapest is amongst Europe’s most beautiful and buzzy cities in which both locals and tourists love to go out – to open a new Time Out Market in one of the city’s top locations, together with our partners in Budapest, is very exciting for us. The food scene is a great reflection of the city itself: Budapest offers both traditional, classic and modern, hip elements – it has a vibrant and diverse food scene which we will bring together under one roof at Time Out Market Budapest.”

Olivér Balogh and Viktor Balogh – minority owners of Corvin Palace – added: “Corvin Palace is the oldest department store in Budapest – we are proud to have now brought it back to its original glory, whilst creating value through a modern mixed-use of this legendary building. This is an ambitious project, so our goal was to include an iconic food and cultural market to complement the high-quality retail and leisure offerings as well as a hotel already signed – we are delighted to be welcoming Time Out Market Budapest to Corvin Palace soon.”

Read also:

Sensational: Hungarian team qualifies for Bocuse d’Or World Final 2025 – Read more HERE
Exclusive – Heavenly taste: The 3 most unique pizza places in Budapest – PHOTOS and more in THIS article

April 17, 2024

Hungary among the best holiday destinations with cheap beer in Europe

Already mapping out your holiday plans? Well, if you’re a beer lover, exploring Europe’s beer scene should definitely be on your agenda. Hungary is one of the top destinations offering cheap beer in Europe. While beer is super cheap in shops, fear not, a pint won’t break the bank at local pubs either.

Fun facts about beer in Hungary

In 2022, Hungary brewed a whopping 563 million litres of beer, 1.6% of the EU’s total production. Considering the country’s size and population, Hungary ranks pretty high in beer production.
Moreover, Hungary secured the 19th spot in per capita beer consumption last year, with an average of 73.7 litres per person.
You can find the cheapest beer in Hungary in two astonishing towns in the countryside.

Extremely cheap beer in European capitals

According to Blikk‘s report, you have to travel as far as Minsk, Belarus for the cheapest pint, which costs a mere HUF 410 (EUR 1.05) there. Moldova and Georgia also make it to the top five. At the bottom of the top 10 list of the cheapest beers is the iconic Czech capital, Prague. It may not come as a surprise that Budapest shares the same league, with the average price of draught beer ranging from HUF 800 (EUR 2.04) to HUF 1000 (EUR 2.55).

The best bang for your buck: beer in Hungary

Presently, the most pocket-friendly places to grab a decent pint in Hungary are Debrecen and Szeged. In Debrecen, a pint costs a modest 397 HUF (EUR 1.01), while in Szeged, it’s just a tad more at 497 HUF (EUR 1.27). Nestled in Eastern Hungary, both cities offer unique and captivating experiences, making them perfect holiday getaways.

Debrecen

As Hungary’s second-largest city, Debrecen boasts a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the Great Reformed Church, soak in the lively atmosphere of the city centre or unwind in one of its many lush parks. Debrecen is also known for its exquisite thermal baths, offering a tranquil escape for travellers seeking rejuvenation. Clearly, being on top of the list of cheap beer in Europe isn’t the only reason to explore this city.

Szeged

On the flip side, Szeged is celebrated for its stunning architecture, particularly its Art Nouveau buildings. The city sits on the banks of the Tisza River and offers picturesque views, especially along its waterfront promenade. Szeged is also renowned for its cultural events, such as the Szeged Open-Air Festival, which showcases theatre and music performances throughout the summer months

Whether you are charmed by the idea of enjoying cheap beer in Europe or seeking cultural impulses, Debrecen and Szeged provide ample opportunities to immerse yourself in Hungarian culture, sample delicious local cuisine and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. These cities are ideal holiday destinations for those seeking authentic Hungarian experiences.

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April 16, 2024

Here’s the recipe for the ultimate stag do in Budapest

Peaches and Cream Club Budapest stag do in Budapest

The Hungarian capital is a paradise for party lovers and a popular destination for holding a stag do. Planning a stag do in Budapest can be a thrilling experience with plenty of activities to choose from. Here we have compiled a list of activities that you can choose from.

A stag do in Budapest for party animals

If you are a party animal, you are in luck. Budapest is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Organise a pub crawl to some of the city’s best bars and clubs. You can either join a guided pub crawl tour or create your own itinerary. In addition, you can explore Budapest’s unique ruin bars, which are set in abandoned-looking buildings and courtyards. These eclectic bars offer a one-of-a-kind atmosphere with funky interior design, live music, and a diverse crowd.

Want to make your stag do in Budapest even more unforgettable? Hop aboard a party bus equipped with music, drinks, and a lively atmosphere! Cruise around Budapest while enjoying the company of your friends and soaking in the city’s sights.

Quality time with the boys

If parties are not your thing or you want to make the most out of your stay in the Hungarian capital, there is a myriad of options for you. Treat the stag and the group to a traditional Hungarian dinner featuring local specialities like goulash, lángos, and chimney cake. Consider booking a dinner cruise for a unique dining experience on the Danube.

Hungary is highly famous for its baths, so it would be a shame to miss out on them. Relax and unwind at one of Budapest’s famous thermal baths, such as Széchenyi or Gellért. Enjoy soaking in the thermal water and take advantage of spa facilities like saunas and massage services. You can also keep an eye out for special programmes at these baths, such as a “sparty” or a “beerspa”.

Gellért thermal bath, Budapest. Photo: Facebook, Szt. Gellért Gyógyfürdő

Teamwork

If you and your friends know each other well and make a good team, you should consider activities such as solving an escape room challenge. Test your group’s problem-solving skills with an escape room! The city has a variety of themed escape rooms to choose from, offering exciting and immersive experiences.

If you are looking for an outdoor adventure for the stag do in Budapest, consider activities such as quad biking, paintballing, or go-karting. These activities provide an exhilarating way to bond with the group and create lasting memories.

For adrenaline seekers

For some adrenaline-pumping action, book a session at a shooting range as the main attraction of your stag do in Budapest. You can try your hand at firing various firearms under the supervision of experienced instructors. However, make sure to book ahead and choose a private shooting session.

The most important ingredient of the recipe is to remember to tailor the programme to the preferences and interests of the stag and the group to ensure everyone has a memorable experience. And of course, do not forget to relax and have fun during your stag do in Budapest!

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April 11, 2024

Staggering: Hungarian Parliament may ban Coca-Cola, Speaker seems to support the initiative

Előd Novák, a lawmaker of the Mi Hazánk Movement (Our Homeland) would like to ban all Coca-Cola products because the company is one of the biggest supporters of the “LGBTQ+ lobby”.

Telex.hu, a Hungarian left-leaning news outlet, wrote about a strange initiative submitted by the right-radical Our Homeland lawmaker, Előd Novák. The father of four would like to ban all Coca-Cola products from the Hungarian Parliament because he stated on this week’s House Committee that Coca-Cola is one of the most committed supporters of the “LGBTQ+ lobby”.

Dávid Bedő, a lawmaker of the liberal Momentum Movement and partaker in the session, wrote about the initiative on his Facebook page.

Novák says Hungary should not use public money to buy Coca-Cola

Novák reacted on Facebook, highlighting that his initiative was one of the many he submitted on the session. Among others, he talked about the election of the new member of the Hungarian Supreme Court and expressed his views on the parliament’s constitutional failures.

Novák added he did not say he would ban Coca-Cola products. He only said the Hungarian Parliament should not use public money to buy Coca-Cola products because that money could support “LGBTQ propaganda”.

The Mi Hazánk lawmaker added that László Kövér, the Speaker of the house and a strongman in PM Orbán’s Fidesz, showed openness about the issue.

jobbik_black_flag_előd_novák — Előd Novák (l). Photo: FB/Előd Novák

In 2019, Novák demonstrated against the multinational company by trying to block the entrance of their Dunaharaszti factory. That came after Coca-Cola put out posters in Hungarian subways promoting the acceptance of same-sex relationships. Several protests were held against the company’s #LOVEISLOVE campaign then.

Read also:

Homophobes outraged by new Coca-Cola ads in Hungarian subways – Read more HERE
Coca-Cola consumers hospitalised in Croatia, no need to fear in Hungary – Details in THIS article

Featured image: depositphotos.com

April 7, 2024