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lifestyle
Following the thread of your destiny—Terra Poetica
There are many ways to live. We can take the path that we should or is customary, that our environment predetermines for us. Or we can hear that certain melody, the voice of our heart, calling us into the unknown—who knows, it may be this unexpected new journey that
lifestyle
Canteen #8—Pickles
In summer, we feast on crunchy vegetables and fruits, which are good to keep for the autumn and winter months. It’s not just a kitchen pastime, it’s also an important task—as our ancestors well knew, for whom pickles were a way of supplementing their vitamins in cold
lifestyle
History condensed on a plate—OPIUM
Anyone who has been to Asia knows that you have to go back many times to get a taste of the culture the continent’s countries. Browsing through history books just doesn’t cut it; to discover the real dynamics, you need to visit new countries, get to know the
lifestyle
The rule is that there are no rules—MÓR24
I think it is safe to say that eating is a complex experience. It’s about the flavors, the sight of the food, the order of the courses, but also in what environment we eat the contents of our plates. A good recipe is not always complicated, on the contrary,
lifestyle
Value all around us—Behind the Scenes: Marianna Pinczés, manager of a “seed salvaging” company
We tend to forget that in fact everything we need is in our hands, or in our surroundings. For humans are a part of nature and can live life to the fullest when they are in organic harmony with it. “Back to the roots,” you might say—if you want
lifestyle
The protagonist of the story—breadpit
Home is more than a place where we spend a fixed amount of our time. It’s not just the design and interior of the house or flat that matters, but also what surrounds it—the area, the greenness of the grass, the neighbors. Ideally, you should feel at home
lifestyle
Canteen #7—Fish dishes
A part of the summer spirit is to eat hake on the shore of Lake Balaton, carefully scored beforehand, then rolled in spicy, paprika-flavored flour and fried in hot oil. But there’s much more to Hungarian cuisine than that—check out the fish dishes at the Canteen’s counter!
lifestlye
Interstellar ice cream adventure—Mikrokosmos by Füge
Is there anything better to do on a hot summer afternoon or a muggy evening than sit back and enjoy ice cream? We must admit that it’s a perfect activity whatever your age. Luckily, Budapest (and indeed Hungary) is full of good ice cream parlors, but one popular player
lifestyle
Everything happens for a reason—CAUSE Roastery
It is not always clear where our path is leading us. But if we focus on what’s really important, we can spot that certain evening star that will guide us towards our true purpose. By ‘just’ listening to the voice within and persevering when the journey gets tough, we
lifestyle
Y marks the spot—Teyföl
A chequered tablecloth sprinkled with gravy dots, breaded meat with potatoes, and a cheerful but firm waiter preferably with a belly—some of the stereotypes that characterize Hungarian restaurants. But if you go to Szentendre and enter Teyföl, you will realize that the gastronomy of our small country is much
lifestyle
Canteen #6—Casseroles
When we think of Hungarian cuisine, we can say one thing for sure: it’s creative. We have many recipes and dishes that save leftovers and creatively reuse the last crumbs of a previous dish. So join us as we step through the doors of our favorite canteen again to
lifestyle
The triumph of fire—UMO
Fire is life. Energy, birth, death, purification—if we learn to respect and handle it, it is the most useful companion, but if we underestimate its power, it is a dangerous phenomenon. Of course, for true harmony, the other three elements, earth, water, and air, whose unity is the foundation
lifestyle
You only have to wish—Sweet City
Birthdays, weddings, anniversaries—just a few occasions where one thing is for sure: they can’t happen without a celebratory cake. But a delicious cake doesn’t need a special occasion, you just have to believe you deserve it. It’s at these moments that we wonder how great it
lifestyle
Canteen #5—Ragouts
In this changing weather, we may want something more substantial, something more filling, something that warms us from the inside out. Let’s face it, the cream soups and vegetable stews we’ve already written about are in their infancy behind the Hungarian gastronomic champions: introducing stew and tokány!
If
lifestyle
You can be yourself differently—Henteslány
Art can be found everywhere. If there is enough humility in you, if you are not afraid to learn, to pay attention to detail, to respect the material you are working with, and if you dare to shape it in your own style, you can make something special out of
lifestyle
On the road home—Iszkor
You can never forget your roots. I think there is a lot to be gained from putting on your boots, seeing the world, and collecting a lot of useful and interesting things in your bag, but sooner or later, the past will speak. You have to go away to be
lifestyle
Forget the tension—Deszka Budapest
Let’s face it: life is not always easy. We are constantly working, planning, and pushing forward, yet we feel that we don’t always have control over our circumstances. We do our best, and yet sometimes we hit a wall. At times like these, it’s good to walk
lifestyle
Canteen #4—Breaded dishes
Some foods have a soft spot in our hearts, and despite our best efforts to eat healthy, we still think—or take a bite—of them with a smile of indulgence. For example, Hungarian cuisine, including the Hungarian cafeteria, doesn’t exist without breaded dishes, and so we just couldn’
lifestyle
Food design inside and out #5—Easter treats
Whether you fast before Easter or not, we can probably all agree that the delicacies put on the table during the festive period are worth waiting for. Despite the reign of international cuisine, traditional dishes are still common in Hungary, and there are countless domestic manufacturers and producers who prepare
lifestyle
Make yourself at home | Lujza & Koriander
It is undeniable that every surprise has a certain magic to it—sometimes it’s good to step out of your comfort zone and experience something completely unusual. However, finding a balance is essential, which is why the value of places where everything is familiar, where are greeted warmly, and
lifestyle
The new taste of a mission—ZIRP
It is becoming increasingly clear that to address the pressing issues of food supply in the long term, we need to look beyond the ingredients and foods we are used to and habitually choose. This is primarily a problem for Western countries, yet whose consequences are global and affect all
lifestyle
Where you find what you’re looking for | Csemege
Most of us like to discover new things, but sometimes it’s more comfortable to stick with what we know. When you know that where you’re going, there’s an open door, good vibes, and a warm welcome with delicious food and coffee that’s been tried and tested
lifestyle
Canteen #3—Vegetable stews
Is there a more divisive dish on Hungarian canteen menus than the different versions of vegetable stews? This very Hungarian dish evokes nostalgic feelings and memories for many while making others nauseous—whichever the case may be for you, after sandwiches and soups, they too have an incontestable place in
lifestlye
A gastronomic paradise under the stars—Platán
You do not need to go far away to enjoy a genuinely complex gastronomic experience: you can find the town of Tata with the famous Esterházy Palace just 50 km from Budapest. Platán offers everything a traveler seeking relaxation could dream of, and even more. So, no surprise that last
lifestyle
It’s not all about Budapest! | Veszprém gastro-review part 2
Last week we rolled out a cocoa snail at Makmoiselle Bakery, had an exciting lunch at GUSTO13, and finished the day with an ice cream at Füge. But the city has so much more to offer— so let’s continue the gastronomic journey!
Pekedli Szatócsbolt
On a perfect day, I
lifestyle
It's not all about Budapest! Veszprém gastro-review part 1
While we love the ever-changing, vibrant atmosphere of the Hungarian capital, we cannot live with blinders on. It’s important to explore the increasingly vibrant art, design, and gastronomy scene in the country towns and cities, where endearing stories, quality products, and fantastic concepts are being created precisely to showcase
lifestyle
Celebrating simplicity | Hétköznapok.
Naturalness, sustainability, learning, and teaching. If these are used not just as buzzwords, but as descriptors of a value system, something truly meaningful might begin. For the greatest things are not at all noisy, but rather quiet, yet significant. This is the case with Csaba Sajben, who has created a
lifestyle
The right way is not the easy way— Behind the scenes: Norbert Ádám Kiss, gastro journalist
There are those who cultivate gastronomy and those who report on it. And there are those who combine the two, not only by opening the kitchen door to the public, but also by helping us understand what goes on behind the scenes. Meet Norbert Ádám Kiss, who, under the name
lifestyle
Practice makes perfect—Rutin and Mimi’s Sweetaway & Pâtisserie
Sometimes, you don’t want to go crazy, you just want to have a good time for a few hours, with familiar flavors and friends. If you’re lucky, hobby chefs will treat you to a casual lunch, but even if you don’t have such an invitation, don’t
canteen
Canteen #2—Lunch can only be complete with soup
Having munched on a few retro sandwiches, it’s time to think about lunch—and a Hungarian menu can’t be complete without soup. In the next episode of our series, we’ll be grabbing ladles and soup bowls, so join us for this one!
Soups are practically our most
lifestlye
Designer cake as a concept? Interview with Zsuzsanna Ötvös
Although it may seem easier to define gastronomy than the various food-related design disciplines, it is becoming increasingly understood and accepted that designing a cake requires as much attitude and professional background as designing furniture or clothing. The ‘building’ process that is fostered by creativity, the attempt to harmonize the
lifestyle
A whirl of quirkiness and tradition | NÁM—Taste of Asia
Budapest’s gastronomic scene is a constantly changing and dynamically evolving universe. If one place closes, two others are likely to replace it, but there are restaurants and cafés that somehow leave an unfillable void. Chef Dániel Varga quietly returned to the capital, but his cuisine made such an impression
lifestyle
Forming by hand what life suggests—Behind the scenes: ceramicists Eszter Gyalog and András Lukács
Some people are ready to accept a little guidance from life, while others take a more intricate path to their destiny. But when we are in our place, everything suddenly takes shape—sometimes out of clay. Discover the story of Eszter Gyalog and András Lukács (Luki), founders of the Marēk
lifestyle
Canteen #1—Sandwiches
We like to showcase our culinary culture in the magazine. Two years ago, in our Büfé series, we presented a selection of iconic Hungarian gastronomic products every month, while last year we captured various unusual food experiences with the help of photos. In 2023, we’re launching a new series
lifestyle
Food design inside and out #4—vegan delicacies
In January, it’s all about Veganuary—the initiative was launched 4 years ago with the aim of raising awareness globally of the opportunities, benefits, and impacts of the vegan lifestyle and diet. The challenge gives everyone the chance to volunteer to try for a month (or even a week/
lifestyle
A love (of coffee) to last—Vivina Café
Some people believe that all things are predetermined. Others just go with the flow, giving way to whatever events or people life throws at them. Either way, the greatest stories often begin with a meeting—and Vivina Café’s fairy tale is one that proves just that.
Until a few
lifestyle
Getting inspired by coffee and kalach—Edison & Jupiter
I know my way around Budapest, and I seldom miss the opening of a new spot. The existence of Edison & Jupiter, however, has escaped my attention for a long time, even though the café’s atmosphere, hiding in plain sight on Vörösmarty Square gives an overwhelming experience right from the
lifestyle
Sourdough is life—Behind the scenes: baker Krisztina Virágh
They say that once you’ve got a whiff of the scent of baking bread, or felt the blissful meeting of leaven and flour working under your hands, you’ll never forget it. And so it was with Krisztina Virágh, whose path had taken her in another direction for decades.
lifestyle
Twisted #6—Food Superstitions
There are many holidays with different traditions involving the preference or prohibition of certain kinds of food. New Year’s Eve is one of them; certain ingredients are considered lucky to eat, while others are seen as bringers of bad luck. In our new Twisted episode, we’ll be presenting
lifestyle
A glaze to cover everything—Behind the scenes: gingerbread maker Gyöngyi Rácz
Sometimes you will find your path straight away, and sometimes you can follow one for decades, and still reach a point where you feel it is time to get off it. Gyöngyi Rácz, the creator of Cukorgyöngy, is precisely this kind of brave creator who in the end has combined
lifestyle
Food design inside and out #3—Edible gifts
If you need some last-minute creative edible gift ideas, you’ve come to the right place! In our pre-Christmas selection, we brought you a range of delicacies from Hungarian chefs, pastry chefs, and manufactories that will look great on your table, thanks to their clever looks. Whether you’re in
lifestyle
From Badacsony to Budapest: bliss on Bartók Béla Road—La Téne pop-up
The title could be a playful catchphrase, but it is simply those few words that sum up the essence of the new shop of La Téne. Entering the little store, you not only arrive on the island of peace, but thanks to the work of Lili and Bálint, you also
lifestyle
A character shift at the Kopaszi Dam—the SHO has landed
Have you ever been to a restaurant that when you left, you felt that you wouldn’t be bored, even if you stepped back in just a few hours later? These days, it’s an act of bravery to open a place that combines several styles and characters and aims
lifestyle
Food design inside and out #2—special drinks for the winter season
With the arrival of the cold and the early dusk, even the most dedicated spend limited time outdoors, and there’s no denying how good it feels to arrive in a warm place and enjoy a cup of hot beverage on these days. Of course, if you’d rather grab
lifestyle
When gastronomy and design cross paths—together at the World Chocolate Masters
Anyone familiar with the world of gastronomy knows that the essence of any dish goes beyond its flavors. It is the combined work of several fields that can make a meal an enjoyable and nutritious experience, which is why we are no longer talking only about chefs or pastry chefs,
lifestyle
Twisted #5—Extraordinary food combinations
Different strokes for different folks, goes the saying, when we like something that someone else doesn’t, or when it’s our turn to be baffled by others’ choices. While certain combinations may seem strange at first, they can still produce an enjoyable outcome. In our current episode, let’s
lifestyle
Strength in unity—Behind the scenes: Babette Crab, sommelier
She is only 28 years old, but behind her frail(-looking) physique lies a huge heart, amazing stamina, and great humility. She says the wines tell the story, but when she does start to tell her stories, we realize that four lifetimes would be too short for what she has
lifestyle
The bliss of belonging somewhere—OHANA – The coffee family
What comes to your mind when you think of specialty coffee? Flavor notes, latte art, flat white, or perhaps filter. Professionalism, gastronomic experience. However, coffee can be more than this, it can be relaxation, it can be connection, and it can be home. Just like in the case of OHANA—
lifestyle
Because everyone deserves happiness—The Dog Bakery Budapest
Anyone who owns a dog knows how much joy, but also how many challenges this can mean for the everyday life. Just think of simple things like going to work or getting around town. While it may not seem like much to ask, to be able to sit down for
A journey round the table—introducing Konyhakönyv by Rozina Wossala
Nowadays, a cookbook serves a very different function than before. With millions of recipes now available online from all over the world, there is greater value in books that dare to be different in some way. If it’s a wealth of knowledge, if it’s compelling and unique, if
lifestyle
Like a local Bratislava 2 | FACH, SUVENIR, Chez Balzac
Ahoj! In this gourmet edition of “Like a Local” in Bratislava, we’ll guide you through places that are more than meets the eye, that have hidden value, and where you can, as we say in Slovak, “kill two flies with one blow.” Anyway, let’s start in the heart
lifestyle
Reshaped traditions—Onyx Műhely x MOME
Our past, our traditions, are essential to all of us. Their preservation binds us to our roots, and they are the base for building the stories of the future. But what can collective memory give us, and how can the old be brought back to life today? The latest collaboration
A fairytale came true—Taste of Transylvania
If many people wish for a thing, sooner or later it will become reality—perhaps this could be the motto of the first Taste of Transylvania gastronomy festival, which took place between the 7th and 9th of October in Lunca de Jos, in the heart of Harghita County, in the
lifestyle
A treasure trove of desserts— Mon Petit Dessert Boutique
Have you ever thought of a dessert as your most precious treasure? A pastry can be more than just a couple of sweet bites, especially if it is placed in the setting it deserves—that’s why it is such a delight that Mon Petit Dessert Boutique has begun its
restaurant
Unity in Diversity—Latin America with a touch of Hungary, Part II
Last week, we featured some of the iconic restaurants of the Latin American community in Budapest, but there are so many exciting places in this city that we decided to continue: here come two more lovable restaurants!
Whether it’s breakfast or lunch, a nutritious sandwich or empanada is always
restaurant
Unity in Diversity—Latin America with a touch of Hungary, Part I
Somewhere far far away, or rather across the Atlantic Ocean, an incredible continent awaits visitors to the Land of Paradise. While for us, Europeans, it’s hard to imagine a world so interconnected yet so diverse, we might get an impression from all the different characters that one finds in
anjuna
Always better or not at all—Behind the scenes: ice cream makers József Szalay and Barbara Alföldi
Even though summer is over, there are brands and creators who work on saving the summer heat for us. Sunny afternoons, the feeling of exuberance, and the freedom of the beach can all be condensed into a box, or more precisely an ice cream mold, if you do it wholeheartedly.
brunch
When three lucky stars align—LUI
To open a restaurant, a café or a bakery, you don’t actually need anything earth-shattering. However, for this to be a place where you feel like a regular after ten minutes and where you return even more than once a day, you need something completely different. Openness, humility, perfectionism—
food design
Twisted #4—Food Phobias
In our previous articles on twisted food experiences, we have shown you unusual, bizarre, and sometimes even disgusting food combinations and textures. However, there are times when the sense of revulsion inside us is even stronger: these are the various food phobias that we take a look at, once again
budapest
Like a local #9—Fazekas Confectionery, MAMO Gelato, Gelateria Pichler
Autumn may be around the corner, but the days of Indian summer are not yet over, so there’s still plenty of reason to enjoy a season-ending ice cream in the warm afternoons. The best ice cream shops in town still await their customers with a full counter, thus we
budapest
Food design inside and out—specialties in your kitchen
If you’re missing some color and spice from your kitchen, the solution is neither complicated, nor out of reach. With a bit of research, you’ll find real gems in Hungarian delis, which will not only look good on your shelf, but also put meals in a different dimension.
behind the scenes
The real goal is what we have in common—Behind the scenes: Boldizsár Horváth, agricultural engineer
Biting into a tomato that has grown on free land, and that has been surrounded with great care since it was a seedling, is a very different experience than tasting something that came from the other side of the world in trucks. Hard work, time and energy spent on farming
food design
Twisted #3—Disgusting
Our series on our twisted food experiences has reached a new chapter, as we use photographs to recall different sensations associated with certain foods. This month we explore the concept of disgust—join us if you’re brave enough.
What is disgusting and what is not is sometimes the result
branding
A minute of peace with a can of iced tea—Calm Tea
Anyone who’s at least slightly familiar with Chinese tea culture knows that this is a topic that cannot be compressed into one sentence, however, it might be compressed into a metal box—that’s what Olivér Kövecses thought before founding Calm Tea with all his knowledge and enthusiasm.
A
food design
Twisted #2—Creamy, crispy
We continue our series of reversed food experiences, where we try to recall the perceptions associated with eating with photos. This time we take a look at the creamy and crispy opposite, which together and separately belong to the most important pleasure factor.
When you ask someone what is their
behind the scenes
’Cause nothing beats the local—Behind the scenes: Ádám Kovács, deli owner
It is pure happiness when one’s kitchen cabinet or pantry shelf is full of delicious homemade jams, pâtés, preserves and syrups. However, we are not always so fortunate to have a grandma in the countryside to supply us such delicacies, and sometimes we also have less time to hustle
gastronomy
Colors on a plate for acceptance—a joint campaign by Madhouse Bistro & WeAreOpen
A plate of food can say a thousand words. You can tell a story about yourself, share a feeling or a thought that’s on your mind, surprise someone, and even open someone’s eyes. Or we can inspire courage and acceptance—just as Madhouse Bistro and WeAreOpen did with
bon dia
Like a local #8—Minus11, Cioccolatte, Bon Dia
A perfect summer day can have a lot of features—warm, sunny weather, light breeze, good vibes and refreshing delicacies. But even in a heatwave, we cannot go wrong with a good ice cream. The domestic ice cream scene has been dynamically growing in the past years, so it’s
budapest
A pickle jar’s worth of chance—the pickled cucumber program of Babka Deli and Kiútprogram
Served with bread or potatoes, prepared in the sun or on a shady shelf, crunchy pickled cucumbers are an essential delicacy of the Hungarian summer. But this seasonal delicacy can be much more than just a refreshing side dish to barbecue meals: Babka Deli and the Kiútprogram (Way Out Programme)
budapest
An endless summer under the chestnut tress—Este11
The Lake Feneketlen (‘Botomless Lake’) area has become increasingly popular in recent years with the locals and Budapesters alike. Although it’s not far from the noisy hustle and bustle of Móricz Zsigmond Circus and Újbuda-Centrum, the lake’s surroundings are a haven of peace where one can bask in
budapest
When the best things fuse—WAKA Budapest & 101Bistro
Genuinely good things are created when thanks to the fortunate constellation of stars and a sufficient amount of openness good people and good ideas cross paths. Even though last summer the WAKA Budapest boat has already welcomed sunbathers with its chill atmosphere and panoramic view, in 2022, they upgraded to
ceramics
Touchable dessert experiences | The collaboration of Naspolya Nassolda and Renáta Zsiga
We’ve known for a long time that we don’t only eat with our mouth. The look and smell of the food and the environment where we consume it, or the tableware are just as important. The Hungarian ceramic scene is dynamically growing, which is why it’s especially
fine dining
The present and the future of a heritage—the COFFEE GROUND experiment of Onyx Műhely
Since its launch last year, Onyx Restaurant’s new chapter, Műhely, has been creating some of the most exciting experiments in Hungarian gastronomy, to the benefit of both the profession and the public. At this year’s Gourmet Festival, as part of the Gerbeaud Group, they showcased their heritage in
art
Twisted—Reverse food experiences
We eat with our eyes first, then with our mouths—all it takes is a sight or a smell to trigger perception. Now we’re experimenting with using photography to evoke different textures, from soft to gooey, but does it have as much impact as it does in real life?
gastronomy
Like a local #7—SOLID, Moto Pizza, Hearty Vegan Cakes
Long summer days can be enjoyed in the most different ways, if we only stay at the Budapest gastro scene. We can drink wine and taste unforgettable, authentic dishes in SOLID’s rooftop restaurant, enjoy the pairing of San Marzano and buffalo mozzarella at Bartók Béla Road or pick up
gastronomy
External glamour and inner values in perfect balance—Behind the scenes: Viktória Szeleczky-Takács chocolate maker
Anyone who tastes a real cocoa bean or meets the world of bean-to-bar chocolate is most likely to fall in love instantly. There is more to it than the supposed bitterness of cocoa powder or the sweetness of sugar—chocolate ideally gives off at least as many notes as a
community
From beyond the rice fields—a little Japan in Hungary
Although we’ve already introduced you to the magical world of Chinatown and the Indian community in the previous episodes, Asia has so much more to offer. Moving beyond the sushi counters of the shopping malls, if you roam the streets of Budapest with a conscious mind, you can meet
gastronomy
Like a local Bratislava—Pán Králiček Priestor, WERK, After
Our Like a local series conquers Eastern Europe! In our latest special episode, our resident Marika Majorova takes us on a tour of Bratislava’s city center to show us the most exciting little spots.
Welcome to Bratislava. Ahoj! If you’ve just arrived to Bratislava via the recently opened
east
Like a local #6—Normafa Delikát, 4minutes café, Mazel Tov
At the top of a hill, through the winding streets of the Castle Quarter, or in the middle of the party district—if you’re browsing around Budapest, you’re likely to find authentic, charming places that have a story and a common purpose behind them, where hours pass unnoticed.
gastronomy
La dolce vita ungherese—Italians in Hungary
Italy has always been a popular destination for Hungarians. We can quickly identify with the happy-go-lucky attitude of the Italians, their love of family and their genuine passion for food. But it seems we’re not the only ones who enjoy traveling to The Boot of Europe; they’re also
gastronomy
Like a local #5—Budapest Coffee Stand, Gerlóczy Café, QUÍ 貴
With the first rays of the spring sun, we get the urge to discover the hidden corners of the city. In our new series, we present venues that are not located alongside the Grand Boulevard, but are still popular spots in the gastronomic scene of Budapest for the more exploratory
gastronomy
Perfect minimum—Behind the scenes: pastry chef Attila Menyhárt
These days, many people choose confectionery as a career. Some, however, are not content with just learning the basics, but are constantly looking for challenges and inspiration, constantly improving and then aiming for the stars. Attila Menyhárt, or Meinhart Patissier as he is known internationally, has been working with desserts
east
On the threshold of a new universe—ANIMA project
When we sit down to have dinner in a restaurant or eat a plate of food, it’s not just focused on eating. It’s about much more: how and where the ingredients come to us, how they are prepared, how they affect us now and the planet in the
business
We need no glamour, but reality—Behind the scenes: Antonio Fekete, food photographer
There is a good chance that those who follow the gastro scene in Hungary have already met Antonio Fekete; they just might not know about it. Striking details, a clear, vivid look and the message that shines through, a quest for perfection—these are just a few of the things
gastronomy
Like a local #4—Mantra Specialty Coffee Bar, Hokedli Pottage Bar, Iran Confectionery
If something is typical of Budapest, it is the many winding streets that fill the city center. Walking through these, one can easily walk in front of a shop window, although if we wander slowly, we can come across real surprises. In our monthly recommendation, we show real “hidden treasures”
gastronomy
A cavalcade of colors, smells and tastes—Indian culture in Hungary
Those who once experience India’s unparalleled cultural and gastronomic cacophony can never escape it—but in a good sense. Even though the world’s second-most populous country is far away from us geographically, it is still easy to enter the world of South Asia from across the border, thanks
east
Hitting the road back to yourself—the tea world of Zhao Zhou
In the constant noise and rush, there are very few moments when everything is calm, silence surrounds us and we can hear our own inner voice. We got unused to just contemplating and enjoying the serenity of the moment, even though, if we let it happen, it will give immeasurable
east
The magical world of Kőbánya—Chinatown in Budapest
When you leave the center of Budapest and head deep into the heart of the X. District, you will soon notice huge buildings from which so many colors, smells, and noises filter out. It may seem like an alien world, but it’s worth stepping through the gates as an
business
All about the fish—the newly opened Halkakas Fish Shop & Fish Bar in Budapest
Although Hungarian rivers and lakes are rich in the most diverse fish species, and there are many responsible fish farmers, Hungarian people consume notoriously little fish. There is interest in the genre, but many people are afraid of “puddle-tasting dishes,” others are unsure of what to try and how to
business
Enjoying the moment with a Sweet Scandinavian Bulle—The story of nor/ma
When in Scandinavia, it’s easy to fall in love with Nordic minimalism. The importance of nature and its closeness, the respect for simple things, and a sense of serenity radiate from the people here. Denmark, for example, has secured its place as one of the happiest countries in the
gastronomy
Like a local #3—Naspolya Nassolda, Szír Center, ONO Poké Bowl
Veganuary, or vegan January, marks the beginning of the year for more and more people—luckily, if you follow a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle out of this consideration or out of a long-standing commitment, you can choose delicious treats from a growing number of places, not only in Budapest but
gastronomy
Like a local 2021—Fehérvári Street Market Hall, Fågel by Artizán, Magvető Café
I have already talked about my current favorites in Budapest in two episodes, but there are some places that are even more special to me. As the end of the year approaches and it’s time to take stock, here are the ones that, no matter how time goes by,
east
The building blocks of a new era—ONYX Workshop Foundation Series
When the concept of the Workshop and the Creative Community was born within the walls of ONYX a few months ago, they set themselves the goal of rewriting everything that the profession and the public think about fine dining and ONYX. Although many questioned where it would all end up,
east
Büfé Xmas—Christmas dishes
Although gastronomy has changed a lot over the past decades, with new trends emerging almost weekly, the delicacies on the Christmas table somehow seem to remain constant. We look for flavors that we grew up on and the dishes we can enjoy together, regardless of generation. In this special edition
east
Like a local Xmas—Christmas programs for foodies
As Christmas approaches, Budapest comes alive with sparkling lights and amazing flavors and smells. If you want to enjoy the festive atmosphere, but would like to go beyond the classic mulled wine and chimney cakes, read our tips for an unforgettable gastronomic experience!
Christmas is all about baking and cooking
gastronomy
Büfé #12—Spices
Is there any Hungarian cuisine without the holy trinity of salt, pepper and paprika? Whether you like cooking or not, the answer is clear: no, there is not. But it wasn’t always like this—you might not think it, but a few centuries ago, ginger and nutmeg were more
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Good coffee is evident, eclair is the cherry on top—Emily Eclair
Nowadays, we come across more and more cafés with specialty labels, not only in Budapest but all over the country. However, this abundance sometimes comes at the expense of quality, as the criteria fade and not only customers but sometimes even the profession becomes confused about what is authentic. But
gastronomy
Like a local #2—Culinaria Italia, Tökmag Vegan Street Food, Flow
Our series continues, where we present the best gastronomic places in Budapest, more precisely our current favorites, where you can often see us. In the first episode, we visited a sourdough bakery in Buda, sipped basic stock in the shade of the Mammut shopping malls, and checked the shelves filled
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Büfé #11—Biscuits
Childhood can have many flavors. Some have fond memories of cotton candy, others of Dunakavics or Zizi. But there’s one universal sweet snack that everyone across the planet knows and which, for one reason or another, is a firm favorite regardless of age. It’s no different in Hungary—
gastronomy
Like a local #1—Bake my Day, Alaplé Bár, Cho Coco
Budapest is full of great delis, cafés and bakeries—especially if you know where to look. Whether it’s in the middle of the city center or in a hidden little street on the outskirts, we’ll find it. In our new series, twice a month, we’ll feature 3-3
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Pearls of Anatolia—Turks in Hungary
We used to roam the zigzag streets of Chinatown and then discovered the Russian, Ukrainian and Belarusian worlds of Budapest, but there are still quite a few cultures to meet. We are now traveling all the way to Asia Minor, on the shores of the Bosphorus, to get to know
gastronomy
From cocoa beans to bars: the old and new history of chocolate
It is no exaggeration to say that chocolate is known and loved all over the world. Although cocoa beans are only grown in special climatic conditions, thanks to their processing methods, they have spread worldwide. Over the centuries, we have moved far away from what was originally consumed, but it
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Büfé #10—Cold cuts, meat products
It is a must-have ingredient in all sandwiches and pariser salads, an attention-grabbing factor in cold dishes, the star of New Year’s Eve parties, and a permanent resident of lunch boxes. Thinly sliced or rustically chopped, or even as it is, bitten into. A variety of Parisians, hams, salamis
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From the Volga to the Danube—to be Russian in Hungary
It is not surprising that countless Russian, Ukrainian, and Belarusian people have found their home in Budapest (and, of course) in Hungary in recent decades. What is perhaps more interesting is that although they did not form a unified, closed world like the Chinese in Chinatown (which I wrote about
gastronomy
Mama’s cooking, in Chinese | Authentic lunch at ZHU & Co.
Food connects us. Perhaps this is one of my strongest experiences since I started working on the subject. Sure, it’s good to experiment, to try new things, but it’s still different to sit down at a common table with your loved ones or your family. Everything just tastes
gastronomy
Our taste memories | Angéla Góg’s comprehensive exhibition at ONYX
If we look back at our past and search among our memories, we can find many that are linked to a food, a meal, or a taste. This was something that Angéla Góg, DLA food designer, who is well known in the national and international scene, also discovered almost 10
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Stories from the farm to the table—Dávid Kárai’s book “Ki mint vet” has arrived
Have you ever wondered how a dish or an ingredient gets to your table? It’s not just nature that does its job—many people dedicate their lives to bringing the best possible vegetables, fruits, dairy products and spices to Hungarian kitchens through hard work and strong commitment. The difference
gastronomy
Foods of tomorrow | Raw materials from the future
It is becoming increasingly clear to more and more that our current diet is unsustainable and will change drastically in the near future. Although this can be a source of alarm, it opens the door to possibilities even more, as it allows us to discover old and new raw materials
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Büfé #9—Bars of chocolate and candy bars
Sometimes we eat it on the go, during a trip or for a snack, sometimes we get it as a gift, and other times we throw it in the shopping basket without even looking. Melting in summer, stiffing in winter, yet we cannot resist—it’s the timeless world of
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A fragrance to savor | Auguszt Confectionary x 7scents
A cake can do many things. It can make you smile, make you think, bring back memories, give you a delicious experience or help you reward yourself. At other times, it invites you to new adventures, like taking you to a tropical island, while evoking the scent of an exciting
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Büfé #8—Salty crunchies
What does a football night, a New Year’s Eve party, or hanging out with friends have in common? A good chance that there will be some salty snacks, which may not fill your belly, but will contribute to the good mood of the event. The real hits have been
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Celebrating confectionery | Borkonyha Dessert Dinner
When we hear the word dessert, we associate it with a dish that follows the starters and main course, its role is to complete and crown the menu, usually with sweet flavors. But why shouldn’t dessert be the protagonist of our meal? And why not plan a whole dinner
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Head over Heels in Goulash | Jeremy Salamon and the Agi’s Counter in Brooklyn
Even as a child, this young chef could not be shooed away from by the stove – Jeremy Salamon, born in South Florida, inherited his love of cooking from his grandmother, Agi, who fled Hungary in the ’50s to the West, and rebuilt her life from scratch. He didn’t delve
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Büfé #7—Ice creams, popsicles
On a hot summer day, there’s nothing better to cool you (and your spirits) down than one, two, or three scoops of ice cream. Our love affair with the icy treats is nothing new; they were a source of pleasure in the days of our parents and grandparents. But
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Dessert, that gets you to the Moon | Borkonyha Desszert Műhely
Desserts can rightfully take the spotlight, even in a Michelin-starred setting — especially when they are made by people such an expert and full of humility and love as Anett Béres, the dessert chef at Borkonyha. Desszert Műhely, which is only open until the end of August, has become a must-visit
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Success at SALT: “derelye” and “csöröge”, the Hungarian classic pastries among the best in the world
Anyone who follows the work of pastry chef Csenge Dusha knows that her cakes are always a subtle harmony of childhood memories and the flavors of nature created by using premium kitchen technologies. Csenge has long been enchanting guests with her dessert plates at SALT fine dining restaurant (as an
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With love from Vietnam—Lam Sơn life
The home is not just a living space, but a small corner of the universe interwoven with good energies—where our loved ones, memories, or just the promise of our future resides. However, if we get away from this special place, we need objects that create this attachment, even across
gastronomy
The flavor network
From the color and texture of the food on our plates to the network of traditions and habits encoded in us as well as personal preferences, there are several factors that influence our sense of taste and relationship with food. Edibles possess features that open new avenues for better systematic
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Liberating rebirth—The metamorphosis of ONYX
Past. Present. Future. ONYX, Hungary’s only two Michelin-starred restaurant is going through the process of a great transformation: Not only is the establishment redefining its daily operations, but it’s also rewriting the discipline of fine dining by creating a creative community of chefs, researchers and designers, while also
business
Three bites of wonder for everyone—The vegan collection from Chez Dodo
Delicate small shells filled with delicious special creams—macarons have stolen the hearts of many with a sweet tooth in recent years. Despite their size, creating macarons is a complicated process and only a handful of people are able to make them flawlessly. Luckily, Chez Dodo has been at the
büfé
Büfé #6—Syrups, soft drinks
On a sultry-hot summer day, nothing quenches the thirst quite as well as an ice-cold drink. Yet on those days when squeezing lemons for a lemonade seems like a drag and even the thought of a beer makes us dizzy, it is time for the golden oldies. They are sweet,
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The noble simplicity of luxury | Nour – Art of desserts
Many people can bake desserts—however, only a very few don’t settle for good but aim for absolute perfection instead. Nour – Art of desserts is a dream fulfilled with meticulous care and compromise-free perfectionism about how a piece of dessert becomes a true work of art.
I have always
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A new chapter in the croissant story—Freyja
Twenty-seven layers of dough made of the best Hungarian and European ingredients, with incredible care—the Freyja – the croissant story has been a true favorite of the audience since 2019, and it is now available in both the Buda and the Pest side of the Hungarian capital. The story just
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Out of adventure to Lake Balaton—The Peak Specialty Coffee
There is no place like Lake Balaton—many people think so, but there are also those who have a go at it instead of daydreaming. Marci Gorka and Aisling Keys have already lived in many parts of the world, but this summer they chose Révfülöp. Meet The Peak Specialty Coffee!
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Exploring the world of flavors | Viblance
What makes a dish perfect? Even though the secret is not that big—one only needs to let the true flavor and colors of the ingredients shine—many still get lost along the way. Luckily, Viblance has been helping the curious adventurers explore the fantastic world of whole-food, plant-based meals
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A bakery you can come home to—Kenyérke
Being at the right place, at the right time—it’s not only us who feel this way when entering Kenyérke’s door in Budapest’s Wekerletelep, but the founders of the brand new bakery too, when they could finally make their old dream smelling like a bread come true.
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Büfé #4 – Canned food, pâtés
Canned versions of sandwich creams and various ready meals were not only popular products of socialism—their relevance to this day is unquestionable. Not only did they provide a solution in times of need, such as war or poverty, but they became retro favorites that could not be missed for
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Vietnamese boldness served professionally | #Bi
What do we get if we combine traditional Vietnamese recipes with professionalism, reflective experimentation and a cheeky young attitude? Whatever it is, it can only be good. Even though #Bi only opened a few months ago near Budapest’s Lehel Market, it has already filled the city’s gastronomy—and
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Playing with food, seriously │ Unicone
Sometimes it is, indeed, worth playing with food: if we approach it with sufficient courage and cheer, it can give room to endless experimentation. And when all this is combined with professionalism and dedication, success is basically guaranteed: Unicone rewrites everything we thought we knew about winter ice cream.
It’
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Pancakes around the world | Around Pancake
Pancake is a universal dish—they are consumed in various forms all over the world, and everyone has a favorite made for their taste, possibly a top secret family recipe. Pancakes can be sweet, salty, free-from or “all in,” which is why they never get boring. In addition to experimentation,
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Büfé #3 - Wafers
It’s only good if it’s crispy, but then it’s really good—the different salty and sweet wafers are a favorite of generations to this day. Although we can find many imported brands on the shelves of grocery stores, the Hungarian hit products have not worn out, in
design
Coffee in a new guise—BLCKEST Coffee Roasters debuts new packaging
BLCKEST Coffee Roasters (whom we have already introduced to our readers here) does not only start the spring feeling fresh and funky by all the caffeine—the brand recently unveiled a new packaging in collaboration with Hollóka Graphic Design Studio. In addition to making the uniform black paper boxes stand
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The triumph of Hungarian pasta—Nudli Pasta Canteen and Angéla Góg’s Laska project
In every Hungarian family, every home and every soul, there are Hungarian pasta dishes whose importance is simply unquestionable. We have been thinking of these dishes as too simple and too homely—up until now. Nudli Hungarian Artisan Pasta Canteen and Angéla Góg’s Laska research and object set are