Gundel

The restaurant building

Gundelis a well-known restaurant located in theBudapestCity Park,Hungary.

History

A previous restaurant in the spot,Wampetich,opened in 1894. In 1910,Károly Gundeltook over the Wampetich's lease and operated the restaurant. His son János Gundel, who had learned the hospitality trade at other hotels and restaurants, took over the restaurant's management. He created a dramatic and luxurious style that increased its popularity and created an international reputation.

In 1939, the restaurant did the catering for the Hungarian contingent at1939 World's Fairin New York City. In 1949, the restaurant was nationalized and operated by the state company of the Hungar Hotels, but it was reopened by AmericansRonald S. LauderandGeorge Langin 1992. ConsultantsAdam Tihanyand graphic artistMilton Glaserassisted in its design.

Cuisine

One of Gundel's signature dishes is the Gundelpalacsinta,a crepe with a filling made from rum, raisin, walnuts, and lemon zest, served with a chocolate sauce. Gundel also claims to have createdPalóc soup,a soup that aimed to be "likegoulash...yet not goulash, "according to the Gundel web site.

The Gay Hussar

Victor Sassie, the founder ofThe Gay Hussarrestaurant (inSoho, London) served his apprenticeship under Gundel. Sassie was sent to Budapest by the British Hotel and Restaurant Association when he was seventeen. On his return to London in 1940, he established first the Budapest restaurant and then The Gay Hussar, which was to become popular with left wing politicians.

See also

• List of restaurants in Hungary

External links

• Gundel website(in Hungarian)
• Gundel website(in English)
• Gundel pancake (palacsinta) recipefrom Hungary
• Gundel online reservationsArchived26 April 2012 at theWayback Machine(in English)