Three Hungarian restaurants have earned a place in the Luxury Lifestyle Awards’ 2026 TOP 100 Restaurants of the World selection, bringing international attention to the country’s culinary scene.
Three Hungarian restaurants awarded
Budapest’s VIRTU Restaurant, ISSEI and Tortuga have all been included in the prestigious list, which recognises establishments for their gastronomic achievements, service quality, distinctive atmosphere and overall dining experience, writes vince.hu.
Located on the 28th floor of the MOL Campus, VIRTU offers a contemporary interpretation of Hungarian cuisine. Chef Levente Lendvai and his team combine familiar Hungarian flavours and traditional ingredients with modern techniques, creative approaches and refined presentation.
The restaurant’s appeal also extends beyond its menu. Its elegant interior, attentive service and panoramic views of the Hungarian capital contribute to an experience that places it among the internationally recognised venues in this year’s selection.
Among the world elite
VIRTU shares the list with several celebrated restaurants from around the world, including Bangkok’s Sühring, which holds three Michelin stars, and Madrid’s Coque and Rome’s Il Pagliaccio, both awarded two Michelin stars. The selection also features Blue by Alain Ducasse in Bangkok, associated with the renowned French chef.
Lendvai said the recognition came as a surprise and was particularly meaningful given the company VIRTU found itself in. He noted that he had long followed the work of several restaurants included in the selection. “It is an honour to be part of such a prestigious international field. It is also a huge motivation for further development,” the chef said.
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What is the Luxury Lifestyle Awards?
The Luxury Lifestyle Awards is an international awards programme that recognises leading businesses in the luxury sector. Its restaurant selection considers not only culinary performance but also the quality of hospitality and the atmosphere created for guests. For VIRTU, the inclusion marks an important milestone and reflects its approach of building on Hungary’s gastronomic heritage while continuing to introduce new ideas.
The presence of three Hungarian establishments in the 2026 selection provides further international exposure for the country’s dining scene, with Budapest’s restaurants gaining recognition alongside some of the world’s best-known culinary destinations.
Read also: Dining Guide Top100 – Hungary’s best pizzeria has been named – and it’s not in Budapest
