Central Room

Head away from the lakeside to seek out this honest all-day bistro with a smart modern interior and a popular terrace. Dishes have a Hungarian heart and perfectly reflect the seasons, with the likes of chilled fruit soups in summer and hearty, warming dishes in winter. Meat-lovers should order the mangalitsa Wellington if they see it on the menu, while fish fanatics should come on Fridays for the special seafood menu. They offer wines from around the world, but don't pass up the opportunity to try some of the superb local Lake Balaton options.

Roads fringed by almond trees and terraced vines lead to this stunning hillside spot; a restful place that comes with seven restored press houses that now play host to designer bedrooms with private saunas. Within the grounds sits this beautiful whitewashed restaurant with a simple bistro-cum-farmhouse style and a lovely terrace affording far-reaching views over the countryside towards Lake Balaton. The generous cooking has a similarly Mediterranean feel, with bright colours and bold, contrasting flavours – expect the likes of lamb soup with sour cream, followed by chicken with pea risotto.

Take in lovely views over the countryside and the lake from the terrace of this charming thatched building dating from 1822. The interior is full of historic character – it even boasts a hidden vaulted brick-built room which is used for private events – and the formal service suits the style of the place. Some unusual and rarely seen ingredients feature in well-crafted dishes; Tihany is famous for its lavender, so the ‘vinarius 200 tortaszelet’ dessert is a must.

This inviting roadside pub sits in an elevated spot and is fronted by a pleasant terrace. Inside it’s warm and welcoming with a rustic feel – thanks to a log burner crackling away on colder nights. Its name translates as ‘I cooked for you’. The concise menu lists all things Hungarian and the friendly team are happy to talk you through it and offer suggestions. The gutsy home-cooking has plenty of flavour and can be paired with a selection of local wines.

An exclusive lakeside resort plays host to this elegant restaurant (if you’re not staying the night, then pre-booking is essential in high season). Grab a cocktail in the stylish bar before enjoying a carefully curated selection of contemporary Hungarian dishes which fuse tradition with inventive modern touches. Local wines are a feature, and the smooth service shows the team’s knowledge and care. If the chocolate and cherry dessert is on the menu, be sure to choose it.

A smart, modern wine bar in the livelier part of this seasonal town, Zelna is named after the wine company whose biodynamic wines it serves – and also offers for purchase. This is a place to kick back and relax, and the small menu mixes light bites with more substantial Hungarian dishes so you can tailor-make your own experience – the beef cheeks are a hit and be sure to save room for the golden walnut dumplings for dessert! Every table is located on the large terrace, which stays open until 2am.

This traditional-looking tavern comes with plenty of character and is certainly a hit with the locals. There’s a rustic, slightly Mediterranean feel to the décor, which works well with its location near the lake, but the best place to sit is on the large terrace beside the working water wheel. Fairly priced, hearty Hungarian classics are the order of the day, with the meat-stuffed pancakes a speciality. Children have their own menu too, and you’ll be well looked after by the friendly owners and their team. It’s a place for every occasion, so can get very busy at peak times.