Szék Restaurant & Bar

When SZÉK opened its doors on Andrássy Avenue in 2020, it brought a fresh splash of colour to Budapest’s dining scene. Rarely do restaurants in the capital champion Transylvanian cuisine, but SZÉK has pinned their colours to showcasing the very best of Szekler cooking. Over time, however, traditional Hungarian fare has encroached upon the menu—likely in response to demand, as visitors always gravitate towards classics like paprika chicken and stew with dumplings. That said, purists seeking authentic Szekler flavours won’t be disappointed. Chorba soup, sour beef stew, and stuffed cabbage are key pillars on the menu. On our visit, the house-made zacuscă was divine, but the smoky depth we expected was missing from the aubergine spread. The otherwise well-textured and seasoned mititei arrived with fermented, shredded cabbage and sourdough rolls, but again, it lacked that extra hit of smokiness. Chef Sebestyén Réti delivers honest, flavourful plates that sit comfortably in the fine bistro category. A touch more refinement and attention to detail could push it to the next level, but even as it stands, it remains a solid choice for those eager to explore Transylvanian and Hungarian flavours in the heart of Budapest.