Szentendrei sziget, modern faház, télen也

A central glass-walled kitchen is the focal point of this eye-catching modern restaurant; a dining room sits either side, and there’s a chatty buzz to the room, which is helped along by the personable service team. The two experienced chef-owners are proud of their Hungarian roots and skilfully reinvent and modernise classic Hungarian dishes using a wide range of techniques. The wonderfully rich gulyás soup and the soft, flavoursome venison are hits, as is the ever-present somlói dessert. When it comes to wine, look to the Hungarian options – there are some great sweet Tokajis on the list.

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.

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.

After travelling the world, Chef Jenő returned home to open this unique restaurant. Located in the heart of the city, it comes with concrete walls hung with mirrors, and a 21-seater counter which wraps around the large open kitchen. Red leather stools and placemats provide colour, while a trendy soundtrack adds to the vibe. The set menu showcases elements from Jenő’s travels via a series of refined, creative, sometimes playful dishes that burst with flavour. These are matched by some serious wine pairings, with the Hungarian option offering some wonderfully unique, bespoke choices.

You’ll be greeted as if you’re a regular diner here, even on your first visit, which immediately sets a cheerful tone. The welcoming team come, in part, from the Bock Bistzró stable – and they know how to look after their guests. The surroundings might be modern, but there’s a traditional element to the menu, which looks to the Hungarian larder for its base. Expect seasonally changing dishes such as a tasty vichyssoise soup, followed by juicy wild boar and then a delicious poppy seed cake. 95% of the wines are Hungarian, and everything comes at a great price.

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.

It might have changed location, but a warm welcome and great value food awaits at 94' Konyha & Bar. The super-fresh, vibrantly flavoured cooking has a clear Vietnamese heart, with dishes including a tasty pho and creations such as their own 94' Gohan – a blend of beef, fried rice and XO sauce – but you’ll find some other Asian flavours at play here too. The ‘Lunch Break’ menu is a particular steal and always be sure to finish with a Vietnamese coffee, you won't regret it.