42
Esztergom, Hungary
â1 Star
The Experience
From Michelin Guide
A colourful townhouse with a striking glass cube extension plays host to this series of intimate dining rooms. Like the building itself, the philosophy they follow is one of constant evolution, perfectly summed up by the tasting menuâs name: âHeritage and Inspirationâ. Assured, skilful cooking has a Hungarian heart and honest flavours, but the kitchen also likes to spark curiosity, so youâll find dishes like Mangalitsa sausage and crunchy cabbage with a paprika, red pepper, sour cream and dill oil sauce. An impressive wine cellar adds to the experience, as do the luxuriously appointed suites.
Unique Things
From Visitor Experiences
Name inspired by "The Hitchhikerâs Guide to the Galaxy": The restaurant's name, "42," is a direct reference to the iconic number from Douglas Adams' book series, symbolizing a unique cultural nod uncommon in fine dining.
Distinctive glass cube architecture on a pedestrian street: 42 Restaurant is housed in a striking glass cube structure that stands out in Esztergomâs pedestrian street, making it visually unique and impossible to miss.
Intimate dining experience with only 26 seats: The restaurant deliberately limits its seating to 26 guests to ensure personalized attention and an exceptional service experience, emphasizing quality over quantity.
Ingredient Stars
From Visitor Experiences
The most honored or signature ingredients at the Michelin-starred restaurant 42 in Esztergom are:
Paprika: Used notably in dishes like the paprika raspberry bonbon with ruby chocolate and roasted peppers, paprika reflects a contemporary twist on Hungarian classics, emphasizing local flavors and heritage.
Duck liver: Featured in standout dishes such as the duck liver burger, this ingredient highlights the restaurant's commitment to rich, traditional Hungarian flavors elevated with modern techniques.
Sea bass: Used in signature dishes paired with apple, showcasing a balance of fresh, local produce with refined culinary execution.
Honey and chamomile: Inspired by childhood memories, these ingredients are used to create delicate flavor profiles, such as in a dish reminiscent of chamomile tea with honey, adding a subtle aromatic sweetness.
Mangalitsa sausage: A traditional Hungarian pork sausage served with crunchy cabbage and a paprika, red pepper, sour cream, and dill oil sauce, illustrating the restaurantâs dedication to authentic regional ingredients with innovative presentations.
These ingredients are significant as they embody the restaurantâs philosophy of blending Hungarian culinary heritage with creative, modern fine dining, often sourced from local gardens and markets to ensure freshness and authenticity.
Menu & Pricing
Current Offerings & Prices
Tasting Menus
- Heritage and Inspiration (6 courses): âŹ120
- Heritage and Inspiration (8 courses): âŹ180
Signature Dishes
- Mangalitsa sausage with crunchy cabbage, paprika, red pepper, sour cream and dill oil sauce: âŹ45