News from Budapest

Budapest, 30 March 2026 — Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest is proud to announce the reopening of ÉS Bisztró, one of Budapest’s most popular dining establishments. Over the last weeks, not only was a renovation carried out behind the scenes, but a comprehensive reimagining was also undertaken, encompassing every detail. The restaurant reopened its doors to the public on 27 March 2026.

 
ÉS remains a relaxed yet refined Hungarian-Viennese bistro and steakhouse, drawing inspiration from the rich gastronomic heritage of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy. While its concept remains unchanged, the experience has been refined in every detail. The space is brighter, cleaner and more welcoming. The atmosphere is more relaxed yet more assured. The dishes retain their familiar flavour profile and are now presented with greater precision and attention. The overall experience is more thoughtfully structured while feeling effortlessly natural.

Interior designer Ákos Bara aimed to create an inviting atmosphere. The exceptional quality of the craftsmanship reflects the skill of Hungarian professionals. In the spirit of sustainability, existing high-quality furniture has been retained and refurbished. The space has been entirely revitalised, with every detail from materials and lighting to plating carefully fine-tuned. The objective was to bring every element of ÉS closer to its original essence with renewed clarity and energy. Particular emphasis was placed on the ambience of the terrace, in addition to creating a vibrant street presence, ensuring that the guest arrival feels equally welcoming.

‘The renovation of ÉS Bisztró is the culmination of five years of enhancements throughout the hotel. We are extremely excited to introduce a new ÉS experience to the downtown market, which we believe loyal ÉS clients and friends will greatly appreciate. We were pleased to collaborate again with the Zsidai Group, our long-term gastronomic partner,’ said Stephan Interthal, General Manager of Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest.

 ‘We call this a ‘reset’. It is when a place steps back from its own operations and returns cleaner, simpler and more precise, with less noise. I believe this is one of the most important principles in hospitality today, not offering more but offering better’, said Zoltán Roy Zsidai, Owner of the Zsidai Group.

The defining elements of the renovated space’s visual identity are the portraits adorning the walls, which pay tribute to emblematic figures of Hungarian and Central European culture. This carefully curated selection reinforces the character of ÉS Bisztró and reflects artistic tradition, intellectual heritage and timeless elegance.

The kitchen is led by Chef de Cuisine Gergely Kovács, supported by Executive Chef Péter Bárdos and Zsidai Culinary Director Vernon Strachan. Together, they bring renewed focus to the menu, honouring its familiar flavours while refining the detail and balance in every dish.

ÉS remains a popular destination, bridging Budapest and Vienna, tradition and modernity, casual ease and refined elegance. It provides a natural setting for business lunches, casual dinners and weekend gatherings alike and remains a long-standing favourite among Budapest locals and a delightful discovery for first-time visitors.

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About Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest: Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest defines contemporary luxury in its outfitting and service in the heart of Budapest. Boldly modern and recently redesigned and renovated, it offers 307 splendid rooms and 43 chic suites. A signature concept, Gastronomic Quarter Downtown Budapest includes Hungarian-Viennese ÉS Bisztró, ÉS Deli, New Japanese Nobu Restaurant, The Living Room and Blue Fox The Bar. Kempinski The Spa features a unique hungarymud® treatment as well as VOYA luxury products and routines. The Promenade Gallery shows modern Hungarian art. Ten Rooms is the hotel’s MICE solution delivered on a full floor of flexible spaces, while The Kitchen Caters provides full-service catering management at or outside Kempinski Corvinus.

kempinski.com/Budapest 

About Kempinski: Created in 1872, Kempinski Group is Europe's oldest luxury hospitality company. Kempinski's rich heritage of impeccable personal service and superb hospitality is complemented by the exclusivity and individuality of its properties. Today, the Kempinski Group operates 73 hotels and residences in 30 countries and has more than 22 prestigious projects currently under development around the globe. Each five-star hotel reflects the strength and success of the Kempinski brand without losing sight of its heritage; each one imbues the quality guests have come to expect from Kempinski while embracing the cultural traditions of its location. The portfolio comprises historic landmark properties, award-winning urban lifestyle hotels, outstanding resorts and prestigious residences. Kempinski is a founding member of the Global Hotel Alliance (GHA), the world's largest alliance of independent hotel brands. 

www.kempinski.com  www.ghadiscovery.com  www.kempinski.com/loyalty   

About Zsidai Group: Building on its family heritage while maintaining an open and innovative approach, the Zsidai Group shapes Budapest’s hospitality scene. Their philosophy draws equally on Hungarian culinary traditions, international standards and the conviction that the true value of hospitality lies in human connection and lasting experiences.

https://zsidai.com/

Media contact:

Ildikó Dudás • Public Relations Director

Kempinski Hotel Corvinus Budapest
Erzsébet tér 7-8. • 1051 Budapest • Hungary
T +36 1 429 3578 • M +36 20 474 5018 • [email protected]