Steve S.
Google
An extraordinary experience at Essência — heartfelt, elegant, and unforgettable.
Essência truly deserves its Michelin star. From the moment we arrived, we were treated with so much warmth and attention. Our waiter wasn’t just a waiter — he felt like family. He cared, laughed with us, and made our evening feel deeply personal. It’s rare to find someone in fine dining who combines such humility, kindness, and heart. He even joined in our little fun moment with Mr. Tutu, our small travel mascot — and it was priceless!
The food was exceptional — creative, refined, and beautifully presented. Every dish told a story, blending Portuguese and Hungarian flavors with precision and soul.
If I were to mention one small note, it would be about the sommelier. She was highly professional and clearly knowledgeable — absolutely no question about her expertise. Still, as a couple celebrating our honeymoon, we hoped for a bit more warmth and human touch — something that matched the rest of the team’s incredible spirit.
That said, this is easily one of the best dining experiences in Budapest. Essência combines world-class cuisine with genuine hospitality — a place that feeds not only your palate but also your heart.