Just a quick note about a little place you may not immediately consider for a meal—Ring Café on Andrássy Út, not far from Nagymező utca. Originally my friend and I had considered the venerable Balletcipő; however it was so smokey inside it was unbearable as a place to eat (and *upstairs* is designated as the non-smoking part: only in Hungary!). There was also a live DJ who sounded fine but not what we had in mind. Walking back down Andrássy we passed Ring Café, across from Klassz, and as Klassz was pretty full we chose the former.
Just as Balletcipő, there are plenty of daily/weekly dishes worth seeking out, many of which were only chalked outside and not present on the short but interesting menu. I chose duck fillets from the special offer - the waiter presented several interesting possibilities to accompany them so I just intimated that the chef should decide. My friend ordered the house beef-burger. We both ordered a glass of red Vesztergombi (from the Leányvár vineyard) which came in tall tulip-shaped glasses. These vessels presented the best face of what is a very agreeable, mellow wine with some dark berries/cognac in the nose and a wonderful smooth finish. I have to seek it out.
The chef brought the dishes to our table with a smile. My duck was beautifully seared, tender and tasty. Roasted, seared vegetables on the side with some caramelised onions and soft potatoes, flavoured with deep-fried thyme. The dish was finished by a little ramekin of chutney which went well with everything. 1980Ft. My friend got a chunky beef burger with a traditional glazed bun on top and good french fries, c. 1800Ft.
I can’t really find fault with this place as everything was spot on - perhaps the staid atmosphere upstairs could be improved upon with some music or something however it was 10pm on a Thursday... Definitely a good place to go for some well thought-out, fresh food and chat without the associated flourishes of upscale dining. Well chosen wine list also.
Ring Café, 1061 Budapest, Andrássy út 38.
