Fehér Hattyú

Fehér Hattyú is a refreshing addition to the culinary scene of Zalaegerszeg and its surroundings. Nestled on the shores of Lake Gébárt, the restaurant enjoys an idyllic setting amid lush natural surroundings. Its striking gabled building - winner of the 2024 House of the Year public award - features vast glass surfaces, a sunlit interior, sleek modern design, and a living plant wall. Outside, a spacious terrace offers the perfect spot to soak in the scenery, where, in fine weather, the area’s unique birdlife provides a free concert. Under the leadership of Viktor Kis, the kitchen serves both international and Hungarian dishes, with portions hearty enough to rival those of a countryside inn. For appetisers, this generosity is especially welcome, as they exceed expectations. The impeccably fresh French venison tartare offered a perfect balance of flavours, as did the foie gras brûlée, served with honeyed apple and buttery toasted milk loaf. Another highlight was the crispy fried pig’s ear with cucumber mayonnaise and pickled vegetables. Among the mains and desserts we tasted, there were minor missteps, yet the overall experience remained thoroughly enjoyable. The young chef and his kitchen team clearly have talent, but the restaurant as a whole is still finding its feet. Their ambition for growth is undeniable - if they maintain their momentum, Fehér Hattyú has the potential to become not just one of Zalaegerszeg’s finest but a culinary destination in its own right.