The award, also known as the Kossuth Prize for the hospitality industry, is presented each year to professionals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement in the Hungarian hospitality sector for at least 25 years, carry out their work with exemplary dedication, support the professional development of the younger generation and are committed to promoting Hungarian gastronomy.

The Gundel Prize is one of the most exclusive honours in the Hungarian hospitality industry; only a few people are awarded it each year.

This year, the award was once again presented to professionals who have had an impeccable professional track record for at least 25 years, have led exemplary lives, uphold the traditions of Hungarian hospitality, are committed to supporting the professional development of the younger generation, whilst promoting Hungarian hospitality worldwide.

As László Kovács, President of the Hungarian Catering Trade Association (MVI), explained at the event, the jury shortlisted five candidates in the first round, before selecting the three winners in the second round. Finally, he announced the winners of the 2025 Gundel Prize – as follows:

Sándor Gottwald, László Ruprecht, Rudolf Semsei.

The award ceremony will take place on 19 October at Gundel Restaurant as part of a revamped, special gala lunch, where guests can enjoy a more relaxed, less formal, open-air reception and exceptional culinary experiences.

Speaking about the forthcoming awards ceremony, Lázár Kovács said that this time the meal would not follow the traditional set menu served at the table.

Instead of the previous long, fixed menu, the programme is organised in a more relaxed, less formal style: food and drinks are served outdoors on the terrace of Gundel Restaurant at various hospitality stands. As he emphasised, guests can look forward to a dining experience unlike anything they have seen before in this genre. The menu will also feature classic recipes by László Jakabffy.