Alelí Budapest — Restaurant in Budapest

I felt so mistreated at the entrance of this restaurant I really didn’t feel like trying to go there again. Ever. We arrived at around 19:30 and asked for a table for two people. The restaurant had a bunch of vacant tables and yet the hostess looked at me in the eyes and said it wouldn’t be possible to sit us for they were “fully booked for the night”. When I asked if we could wait to see if the people who had reservations would show up or not, she pretended not to understand what I was talking about and said that in this restaurant they don’t do that, which is absurd, because even in New York I’ve been to Michelin-star restaurants that let me in without a reservation. Such a Pitty. No good comes in having a nice restaurant if the employees treat potential clients that way. In the end, she even said: “try making a reservation next time. It’s worth it”, which made me feel like never going back there again, definitely. And the thing is, I did try to make a reservation, but Aleli is so far the only restaurant in Budapest that requires you to register a credit card on their website, which just makes things overly complicated and makes you wanna go straight to the restaurant. So I hardly recommend the management team behind this restaurant to reconsider this kind of policy and also to instruct their employees better. To sum up, if you REALLY want to go to this restaurant, make a reservation or the door will be slammed...

I had a disappointing experience at Alelí, the restaurant connected to a 5-star hotel in Budapest. I ordered a grapefruit tonic and was asked if I wanted ice, I said yes, but the drink arrived without it and with no garnish or proper presentation. When I reminded the waiter, he brought over a separate bucket of ice instead of replacing the drink or serving it correctly. Throughout the rest of my stay, the staff avoided eye contact and didn’t acknowledge my discomfort. When I asked the hostess if this was the standard of service in their hotel, she spoke to a colleague in Hungarian and never returned to my table. No apology, no solution, no follow-up. I expected much better from a place of this level. Very disappointing.

Unfortunately, this experience reflects a wider issue I’ve often encountered in Hungary: service is based more on appearances than on genuine hospitality. Unless you’re ordering something expensive or flashy, the staff may treat you with clear disinterest or even rudeness. They don’t know who their clients are, what background they have or what kind of experience they’re expecting and with one bad impression, they risk losing that guest for good. This kind of attitude, especially in a 5-star setting, is not only disappointing, it’s damaging to the image and reputation of the hotel and...

I am truly delighted to have discovered a gem of a restaurant in Budapest.

As avid food enthusiasts, my friend and I had just arrived in the city, eagerly searching for a dining experience that would set the tone for our culinary journey. While exploring Instagram, I serendipitously came across Aleli’s profile, and from the very moment, I had an instinctive sense that this establishment was one that pursued perfection. On impulse, I made a reservation.

The experience was nothing short of extraordinary. Every detail—be it the enchanting ambience, the impeccable service, the thoughtfully curated interior, or the artistry in each dish—spoke to the restaurant’s unwavering commitment to excellence. The personal touch of the chef visiting our table, sincerely inquiring about our experience, added a warmth that set this restaurant apart.

Without a doubt, this will not be our last visit. We plan to return with friends and family, eager to share the unforgettable memories this place has etched in our hearts. We couldn’t have asked for a more perfect start to our gastronomic exploration.

Our deepest admiration and respect go to the entire team at Aleli for their dedication to maintaining such...