At the Corinthia Hotel in Budapest there is what can be considered one of the top restaurants in the world: the Brasserie and Atrium.

The ambience is phenomenal – the centennial building has an atrium with a very high glass roof, a natural cascade of filtered light that caresses all it touches, including the souls of the diners.

“It’s like dining under the heavens.”

The attention to detail is impeccable, and as expected for a five-star hotel restaurant.

Similarly, the service is outstanding.

However, the high note of the appearances, as extraordinary as they were, does come second to the food served!

I did say “top in the world” in my introductory sentence, and I mean every word I write.

Not only was the plating a representation of the artistic endeavour of the Chef, but the tastes blended and opposed each other, and sang, and danced on the palate; and yet also carried a hint of the pride Hungary carries in its fresh farm produce, and in its culinary traditions over the centuries.

Absolutely marvellous!

And, “The Chef is experimenting today, would you please try this?” – move over Middle East, the falafel has just reached a new pinnacle of perfection!

And the desserts – scrumptious and irresistible: light yet satisfying.

If you are able to taste them without closing your eyes in ecstasy, I don’t know what to do with you!

All in all, an evening of epicurean extravaganza; of celebrating a Master at work; of recognising the rightful place of modern Hungarian cuisine at the top of the world.

Gratulálok – Congratulations.

The Brasserie and Atrium in the Corinthia Hotel Budapest is easy to find and access, here is an interactive map: