VakVarjú Étterem Újlipótváros — Restaurant in Budapest

They say it is a children-friendly place. That is why we go there. Usually we go in weekdays but this time we went Sarurday. It was crowded, but we expexted nothing else. All the table were “reserved” outside but not 2 of them, so I waited in the reception and told that i saw all the table were reserved but not that 2, is that possible to sit there. Fast answer: my task to make you sit, all the table are resereved and you can sit inside. (Ok, maybe has a bad day) My husband just arrived, he was so happy because we mostly have a pleasent time in this restaurant … and when he saw us going inside asked the manager: is it possible to sit outside (any table)? The manager - I assume his task is to find solutions in a polite way - did not even look at him, NO- shouted and disappeared. Many of the waiters saw this scene and just one of them came. (Called Ramona) Sorry but this time of period we put families inside. She was the only kind. Now: Dont tell you are a children friendly restaruant (familes mainly go at weekends) I know it is crowded but this is the job you need to handle. I ‘d rather said “ i am very sorry, we prefer to offer table to familes in this budy period inside and I can not promise but if there is any possibility your dessert will be served outside. (Even if wont we would feel that THE qualified manager tried to make us happy, he tried his best and we would not have left the restaurant to a place which was not children friendly (nearby) but waiters completed all the whises we asked for. Would I give another chance? I think yes, but not with this manager (who were in chared today...

I generally don’t like to swim against the tide and leave a rather unpleasant review for a place with this many positive reviews, but I feel that I must.

First, the service was kind of unfulfilled and lackluster, with the wait staff kind of paying attention to us peripherally but not particularly attentively (for example, they didn’t bring cutlery) or with much kindness.

Second, the food was overpowered by salt and other strongly flavored spices and/or sauces. I had the tomato soup as a starter, which tasted like canned vegetarian spaghetti sauce. It was extremely salty, and the addition of what I think was some vinaigrette, maybe balsamic vinegar (?), and the vegetarian feta was too powerful a combination to create any subtle flavor.

The veggie Pelmenyi tasted like the dumplings you get in cheap Asian restaurants, fried in some cheap vegetable oil, and doused in a massive load of dry-ish sour cream. The broccoli was very overcooked and had no flavor apart from the oil it absorbed.

What my friends had looked okay, but some of the garnishes were gross. For example, the pickled radish (at least I think it was that) was so salty as to induce facial twisting. And there was some oil-fried parsley or whatever that was inedible. It was drenched in cheap oil.

Anyway, I had eaten here before and the service and the food were better, maybe they had a bad day. Or I felt particularly picky :) I would give them another shot, but please go easy...

Visiting VakVarjú Újlipótváros offered a delightful dining experience that I was eager to share. This charming spot, known for its modern twist on traditional Hungarian cuisine, didn't disappoint with its offering of both classic drinks and sumptuous dishes.

Starting off with the Negroni, it was mixed to perfection. The balance between the gin, vermouth, and Campari was spot on, providing that iconic, bittersweet flavor that Negroni enthusiasts seek. It was a strong yet refreshing beginning, setting a high bar for the meal to come.

The main event, the salmon filet, was a testament to the kitchen's prowess. Cooked just right, the salmon was flaky and moist, with the exterior providing a slight crisp that added texture without overshadowing the delicate flavors of the fish. It was served with a side that complemented the richness of the salmon, enhancing rather than competing with its natural flavors.

The ambiance of VakVarjú Újlipótváros added to the overall enjoyment of the meal. The place struck a fine balance between elegance and comfort, making it an ideal setting for both casual and special occasions.

In conclusion, VakVarjú Újlipótváros stands out not just for its culinary excellence….

Whether you're a local or a traveler seeking a memorable dining experience in Budapest, this place is certainly...