HIGH5 Bistro

Amid the hum of the M5 motorway, in the Inárcs services area, unexpectedly fine cuisine awaits discovery. On the ground floor of this four-star conference hotel, the restaurant doubles as both dining room and breakfast lounge for guests. The space is functional and pared-back, yet even with generous spacing between tables, it seats over a hundred comfortably. It may be a typical new-build hotel restaurant in the commuter belt, but it is open to all. Within these unassuming surroundings, it is the kitchen that truly stands out. The broad bistro-style menu includes pizzas and bar fare. Service is generally courteous – if occasionally reserved – and plating is consistently elegant. One intriguing starter pairs blood sausage, hot apple and walnut. The sausage is crisp outside, meltingly soft within, almost like a savoury mousse. The walnut (actually pecan) delivers the expected crunch, while three kinds of apple – baked, spiced chutney, and a sweet purée – add both tartness and sweetness. A pleasure for the palate. The breaded lamb chop is fried to a rosy blush and served with creamy mashed potato, roasted garlic, and rosemary. Pickled red onions provide a bright lift, while the garlic is mellow and well-judged. The poppy seed bread pudding is a clever twist: compressed into a cube and topped with velvety poppy seed cream, rich orange marmalade, and soft, milky foam. A bold yet comforting dessert. The kitchen’s performance far exceeds expectations. If you're passing through, it’s well worth a stop.