Started in 1992, Belcanto Restaurant is a one-of-a-kind icon in Budapest, and many travelers have heard of the place before even setting foot in the city. Its reputation for delicious food is only matched by its legendary singing waiters. Now, with a refined menu and several other adjustments, there is even more reason to dine there.
Along with an evening at the next-door State Opera House, for tourists Belcanto is a must for almost any itinerary. However, if a trip to the Opera doesn’t fit into your plans, Belcanto’s marvelous cast of singing waiters and professional singers is a close second. Accompanied by a classical quartet, the singers, many of whom are in training for the main stage of their careers, exude well-known short pieces by some of the most famous composers, whose portraits adorn the walls of the high-ceilinged establishment. In fact, one of the waiters who began his singing career at Belcanto, Géza Egyházi, is now a rising star at the Budapest Opera. All of the waiters are consummate professionals in both aspects of their work – having spent years serving and singing – and are multilingual to boot. As close to 80% of the restaurant’s clientele come from foreign countries, the staff represents the highest international standards for service.
For longer-term residents of Budapest who may have been to Belcanto before, it may be time to revisit. The management has decided to introduce a new, pared-down version of its classic menu, that will focus on around 30 of the finest examples of Hungarian and international gourmet cuisine. It was felt that more emphasis on traditional dishes would better serve to illustrate the „real” Hungarian experience. In addition to the normal menu, there will also be a monthly short menu extra and several special set menus, such as the „Rémy Martin”, a 5-course gourmet feast interspersed with cognac samplings.
As always, the food at Belcanto comes second to none. Generous portions of sumptuous fare compete with the singers for your attention. It is clear that the legendary Hungarian pride is a part of each and every mouth-watering item to come out of the kitchen. Another point of pride for the restaurant is its selection of more than one hundred wines – all from Hungary. Needless to say, the décor and place settings are smart, neat and simple, clearly designed not to distract from the main events.
While Belcanto is clearly an upscale affair, the management has made it clear that stuffiness and over-burdensome dress codes are less important than an appreciation for the restaurant’s unique atmosphere and offerings. Groups and families are welcome, and even pets are allowed. Although perhaps the „best” way to experience Belcanto is after seeing a performance next door, early diners can enjoy lovely piano music with their meal. For those on a tight schedule, the lunch offer represents a 50% discount from everything on the menu.
Among the many sights and sounds of Budapest, a trip to Belcanto is among the very top – unique, charming and delicious. Be you tourist or resident, make your reservation today. Bon appetite!
Menu
Starters
Duck breast wrapped with wine-mulled peaches
Marinated salmon with asparagus served over fresh salad
San Danielle ham served in a pasta basket with cottage cheese seasoned with basil
Mains
Strudel filled with spinach and cheese with garlic sauce over roasted vegetables
Pork tenderloin with goose liver, pepper sauce and goat cheese polenta
Duck breast fillet with eggplant cream, currant sauce and rice with raisins.
Desert
Belcanto chocolate cake with vanilla ice cream
Tiramisu with fresh fruit garnish
