Jenő Magyary, managing director of Gundel, spoke about the restaurant’s stability, its growth and a brilliant initiative.

He added that turnover rose to 1.5 billion forints in 2023, with profits amounting to roughly 8–10 per cent of this figure, according to preliminary data.

The restaurant reopened in 2021 and broke even in 2022, despite the impact of the pandemic. Whilst 55,000 guests visited Gundel Restaurant in 2022, last year’s figure was nearly 57,000; this year, their aim is to serve 70,000–75,000 guests. They have increased their workforce; having had 74 staff last year, they now have a team of 80.

"I would like to ensure that 5–10 per cent of revenue is allocated to profit this year as well," he remarked.

Renewal is an ongoing process

He mentioned that in the building The restaurant has been in operation for 130 years, and has been known as Gundel Restaurant since 1910.

The building requires ongoing maintenance; energy efficiency improvements began in 2022, alongside the refurbishment of the gas boiler A solar panel system was installed at a cost of nearly 100 million forints.

This year, work will continue on modernising the listed building with the refurbishment of the entire façade in March, and part of the event space will also be refurbished, with a budget of 30 million forints according to the plans.

A touching gesture that can mean a great deal

Jenő Magyary said: People with hearing and visual impairments will now receive special attention at the Gundel restaurant, because the waiters they have learnt basic sign language communication in both English and Hungarian, whilst people with visual impairments From a menu in Braille can get to know the most famous Hungarian restaurant the history of his catches.

‘Social responsibility and sensitivity have always been part of Gundel’s core values and have shaped the attitude of those who work here,’ he said.