Two new stars are shining over Budapest. Joining the four restaurants who have kept their accolades from 2018, Babel and Stand have each just been awarded their first Michelin star to bring the city’s full complement to six dining destinations confirmed for 2019. Comprising the illustrious quartet of 2018 are Borkonyha, Costes, Costes Downtown and Onyx, which retains its two stars from last year. Acknowledged with Bib Gourmand recommendations are Stand25, Petrus and Fricska.

Originally combining at Onyx, the culinary duo of Szabina Szulló and Tamás Széll have just been granted the ultimate award for gastronomic excellence, the Michelin star, for their reimagined Hungarian cuisine at 2018 newbie Stand. This elegant eatery on Székely Mihály utca followed hot on the heels of their successful venture in Budapest’s Downtown Market, Stand25, recognised by the Michelin team last year.

A Michelin star was also bestowed upon Babel, tipped for an award in 2018. This pioneering downtown restaurant conceived by Hubert Hlatky-Schlichter earned international recognition by the prestigious Decanter magazine in 2017.

It is one thing to gain a Michelin award – but another achievement to retain it. Congratulations must be given to the teams at Borkonyha, Costes and Costes Downtown and Onyx, who keep their Michelin stars, demonstrating the consistent excellence of Budapest’s top kitchens.