The first thing you smell when you walk into Comme Chez Soi is the butter. I find that to be a very good sign.
Tucked around the corner of one of Budapest’s busiest walking streets, the close tables and dim lighting make Comme Chez Soi seem like a well kept secret, although its waiting list (over a month for our reservation) would say otherwise.
We came to Comme Chez Soi for a birthday celebration and now I don’t want to go anywhere else to celebrate again. Never have I been somewhere with such good service; I didn’t know they difference it could make for a dining experience! We were served by exuberant waiters who seemed happy to be there, ready to jump in and help almost before we even had to ask. And every single thing they brought us was delicious.
The Food
The food was a steady stream of delights. From the first appetizer (set down unexpectedly and on the house) finally convinced me that goose liver has something to offer. If only I had know just how much food was coming, maybe I would have paved myself! At almost every pause our waiter came to refill our glasses or give another complementary glass of wine or shot of pálinka. I felt so valued that I didn’t know what to do with myself. It was delightful but almost absurd by the end, how many glasses and plates we had accrued between the four of us.
Each dish was a home run from the appetizer to dessert. The melted cheese on the French onion soup stretched a mile long. And the main course, a trio of pasta (I love it when I don’t have to choose between pastas), was almost reverie inspiring. And then, even though we were logically too full to even consider dessert, we still found ourselves ordering tiramisu. Before the cake could make it to our table, however, they brought by another complimentary treat: strawberry sorbet nestled in silver cups, accompanied by a slice of dark chocolate.
Pricing
For a place with a swanky French name and a monthlong waitlist I was surprised to see that the prices weren’t exorbitant at all. For an appetizer, main, dessert, and drinks (not even including the complimentary items), we averaged about $35/10,000 HUF per person. Taking into account the quality of service along with the quality of food, I can confidently say this is the best value of dining I’ve ever experienced in Budapest.
Conclusion
Comme Chez Soi weaves together hospitality, professionalism, and quality for a spot-on dining experience. I can’t recommend it enough! Definitely come here if you’re looking for wonderful dining in Budapest—but don’t forget to book ahead!
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