The Magyar Konyha Balaton gastronomy guide has been published for the twelfth time. It is a joy to follow the development of gastronomy in the Lake Balaton region for a long time – this is what Aneko Levai, head of the magazine's editorial board, said at the magazine's press launch in Budapest on Tuesday, recalling that the editors “did not get discouraged” even during the pandemic. .
As he pointed out, Balaton is an independent region, not primarily for geographical reasons, but for cultural reasons. “Balaton belongs to us. We are all emotionally connected to Balaton,” he said.
According to him, when the Balaton Gastronomy Guide was conceived, the goal was for Hungarian families to return home from the lakeside not only with experiences, but also with good taste, because gastronomy in Balaton had long been more than just buffets on the beach.
Anikko Levi also reminded that Magyar Konyha turns 48 years old this year, making it the longest-running cultural magazine in the region.
Joseph Vinko, editor-in-chief of Magyar Konyha magazine, spoke about how Balaton does not give up on “coagulated” nostalgia.
He said that this year's Balaton 2024 book, like its predecessors, is not a restaurant guide, does not contain points, but rather a “nail”, but rather a culinary showcase for visitors to Lake Balaton – adding: The book also presents cultural bistros. And fish grills, spice gardens, cheese making workshops, bistros with kockásbros, fine dining restaurants and wineries too.
Joseph Vinko noted that the first issue of the Stomach Guide barely managed to collect 170 places, and before the pandemic, there were already more than 400 places, but then the editors became more stringent.
Speaking about the current situation of hospitality in Balaton, he said that there is a feeling of stagnation, as many restaurants have not opened their doors after the pandemic situation, but many new pastry shops and ice cream parlors are waiting for those who come to the lake.
The book reviews Balaton restaurants by sub-region, highlighting places recommended by the Michelin Guide as well as the best wineries around Lake Balaton in a separate list. It helps readers with its TOP10 lists in the categories of restaurant, beach bistro, and pastry shop/ice cream parlor.
The Balaton 2024 gastronomic guide is available from Wednesday with the double summer edition of Magyar Konyha.
Image: Illustration (Shutterstock)
