Ekaterina Masko
Google
I had a disappointing experience at Alelí, the restaurant connected to a 5-star hotel in Budapest. I ordered a grapefruit tonic and was asked if I wanted ice, I said yes, but the drink arrived without it and with no garnish or proper presentation. When I reminded the waiter, he brought over a separate bucket of ice instead of replacing the drink or serving it correctly.
Throughout the rest of my stay, the staff avoided eye contact and didn’t acknowledge my discomfort. When I asked the hostess if this was the standard of service in their hotel, she spoke to a colleague in Hungarian and never returned to my table. No apology, no solution, no follow-up. I expected much better from a place of this level. Very disappointing.
Unfortunately, this experience reflects a wider issue I’ve often encountered in Hungary: service is based more on appearances than on genuine hospitality. Unless you’re ordering something expensive or flashy, the staff may treat you with clear disinterest or even rudeness. They don’t know who their clients are, what background they have or what kind of experience they’re expecting and with one bad impression, they risk losing that guest for good.
This kind of attitude, especially in a 5-star setting, is not only disappointing, it’s damaging to the image and reputation of the hotel and its restaurant.