The Transylvanian bistro on Andrássy Avenue and its chef Sebestyén Réti have dazzled us several times. We were amazed by the Transylvanian gourmet fairytale world that welcomed us. If you have a friend who is not that adventurous when it comes to modern cuisine, you should take them to SZÉK. Traditional Transylvanian and Hungarian dishes come with just enough of a twist that even those who like more conventional meals are likely to be swept off their feet.
Not to mention that while most nations are fairly represented in Budapest's gastronomic scene, the capital does not have an abundance of Transylvanian restaurants.
'In addition to a cultural agenda, legendary Transylvanian hospitality, an arsenal of characteristic flavours, abundant portions, and fresh and pickled spices can also be attractive. Hungarians who had moved here from across the border of Transylvania would also like to find their culinary favourites without having to undergo the long trip back home or ask their grandmother to travel to Budapest. That’s not to say that you’ll find Grandma’s recipes at SZÉK, as they hide the best Transylvanian flavours in a modern, contemporary guise.' - we wrote in our previous article.
'In addition to a cultural agenda, legendary Transylvanian hospitality, an arsenal of characteristic flavours, abundant portions, and fresh and pickled spices can also be attractive. Hungarians who had moved here from across the border of Transylvania would also like to find their culinary favourites without having to undergo the long trip back home or ask their grandmother to travel to Budapest. That’s not to say that you’ll find Grandma’s recipes at SZÉK, as they hide the best Transylvanian flavours in a modern, contemporary guise.' - we wrote in our previous article.
The short but to-the-point menu changes seasonally, but the big favourites, being one of the reasons guests return, stick around and only get a new twist. The day's highlight is dinner time, but lunch is also becoming more and more popular. And in the winter season, in addition to the regular favourites, a real festive feast awaits us. The restaurant is open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve, and January 1st, from 10 am to 10 pm. And it is worth a visit as we can choose from generous festive Transylvanian-Hungarian dishes.
As part of the special holiday menu, we can try Transylvanian stuffed cabbage, Wild mushroom pork tenderloin, with laska pasta with rosemary butter, but the richly served Fisherman's soup 'Hargita' style and the Crumbly duck leg with quince parsnip cream and colourful potatoes have also been added to the list of festive dishes. The flavours of Christmas have been condensed into a perfect dessert, the Warm plum pie with spicy orange cream - which will be hard to resist.
So if you are spending the holidays in Budapest and are looking to treat yourself to a festive feast, SZÉK will be a great option. You will be spoiled with delicacies and a warm and friendly welcome.
SZÉK Restaurant & Bar is open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve, and January 1st (between 10 am - 10 pm), awaiting everyone with festive Transylvanian-Hungarian specialties.
