Hotel Molnár

While it would be easy to do, to pass by this unassuming-looking restaurant near the Basilica would be a mistake. The kitchen here sources top-class ingredients, treats them with the utmost respect and allows them to shine. Subtle Hungarian influences run throughout dishes which are well-conceived, skilfully executed and have a notable intensity of flavour. There is an à la carte, but go for the tasting menu for the best experience. Wines are key here too: they offer 100 labels, including some of Hungary’s top producers, with many available by the glass.

Portuguese Chef-Owner Tiago and his Hungarian wife Éva have created a warmly run and deliciously different restaurant in the heart of the city. A bright front room with arched windows leads past the open kitchen to a more intimate room where patches of blue and white tiling hint at Tiago’s heritage. At dinner, pick from 5 or 7 courses – some have choices, allowing you to lead with either Portuguese or Hungarian influences, or to combine them for the best of both worlds. The interesting, flavour-packed dishes are poised and elegant, and Tiago has a deft touch when it comes to seasoning.

Set within the former Goldberger textile factory, Goli refers to the nickname the locals gave to this historic building. It’s a small place with a simple terrace and a colourful, cramped interior, but it’s gloriously friendly and positive vibes simply pour out of the kitchen. Sit at the counter to talk with the chefs, who are eager to guide you through the menu of fresh, tasty Middle Eastern favourites, from warm pita, vibrant salads, and green beans with chilli and lemon, to charred entrecôte with tahini. Deliciously fruity soft drinks and cocktails complete your meal.

Tucked away in the city centre on a small square, Cabrio’s tree-shaded terrace is the perfect place to kick back with a glass of wine. A 100% natural wine bar, it offers generously priced bottles from both Hungary and across Europe, and comes with a vintage look and a trendy vibe. The friendly team are keen to offer recommendations when it comes to both the wine and the concise selection of seasonal small plates (three per person is about right). Boldly flavoured, well-judged combinations could include burnt celeriac carpaccio, salmon trout tartare with green gazpacho or raspberry chocolate cr

There’s always a contented buzz to this neighbourhood bistro on the Buda side of the Danube. It’s owned by the same team as Stand, so their ethos around quality is the same, and you’ll be looked after by a slick team. Cooking focuses on Hungarian classics with a Mediterranean edge and, while dishes are hearty with robust flavours, they also have a refined edge.

Three hours pass in a flash at this intimate little restaurant, which is proudly run by a friendly couple. Dinner starts at 7pm, with Fanni welcoming guests and looking after their every need. Dávid, meanwhile, is behind the scenes preparing a very personalised multi-course set menu that combines classic Hungarian favourites with family recipes and his childhood memories. Dishes have a feel-good factor, from tarragon soup with charcoal-roasted Mangalitsa to sugar bread with ice cream, caramel and Tokaji jus – and Dávid tells their story to the room as he brings each one out of the kitchen or f

As its name implies, caviar plays a starring role here, with a range of almost 20 Hungarian and Siberian options on offer, as well as two different caviar tasting experiences. French and Russian influences guide the cooking, with the à la carte featuring a selection of dishes which have appeared on the menu since their opening under the heading 'Since 1990', and the tasting menu showcasing the chef's favourite creations. Sit in the opulent, richly appointed dining room or the more modern extension which opens out onto the garden – or book the Chef’s Table to really get in on the action.