At a gala in Budapest on Monday evening, the judges said Stand's new operational setup played a key role in its success. Since October 2025, the restaurant has been run by Szell and head chef Benjamin Morris, following the departure of co-owner Szabina Szullo. The award recognises the current team's work and the results achieved under the new structure.

The Best of the Best category honours venues that have topped their category at least three times before.

Other winners included Cova Budapest (Most Promising Restaurant of the Year), Alkimista Kulinaris Muhely (Innovative Kitchen of the Year), and Marton Tatai of Hoppa! Bistro (Chef of the Year). Adam Berecz from Sulyom Tajeterem won Young Chef Talent of the Year, while Kristof Juhasz of Borkonyha and Textura took the Sommelier of the Year title. Zsolt Kiraly of Rumour by Racz Jeno won Service Member of the Year, and Anyukam Mondta claimed the Best Pizza award.

The Dining Guide's TOP10+2 list for this year features Stand Restaurant, Rumour by Racz Jeno, Pajta, 42 Restaurant and Bar, SALT Budapest, Babel Budapest, Essencia Restaurant Tiago and Eva, Sauska Padi, Borkonyha, Sauska 48 Villany, Arany Kaviar, and Spago Budapest by Wolfgang Puck.

The Dining Guide's rating system is based on professional principles also used by Michelin, combined with decades of in-depth knowledge of Hungarian hospitality. The main prize assesses a restaurant's character, development and long-term performance.

The guide's professional work is advised by Fausto Arrighi, former director of the Michelin Guide, who has contributed to the publication for nine years. The 2026 edition of the Dining Guide TOP100 features 180 restaurants and around 70 alternative dining venues.

Photo: Stand Restaurant

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