Some time back, someone asked for a place to try the local specialty. Well, I wasn't much help. Where I come from carp is a trash fish, and in 20 years of travel here, i have been unable to make myself try it.
Today, I visited a new place for me, and fish was their specialty. I ordered an appetizer I knew I would like and would fill me if the carp was what I expected.
The soup came. Red paprika fish broth with substantial chunks of carp .... bones and all. Carp has a rather off putting thick fleshy, fatty, skin. Yum? The broth was fishy tasting as he!!.
Fortunately, this is an authentic place, and on the table is a jar of Pista, Hungarian hot paprika paste. A big popping spoonfull went in. Then, a good dark beer that i thought was sure to subdue any taste it mixes with.
Carefully minding the bones I scraped fish from the thick fatty skin and began working my way to the bottom of the bowl, being mindful of the bones.
About halfway to the bottom of the bowl I realized, this is good stuff. Having eaten enough local home cooking I knew the skin, the chunks, and the bones made it authentic.
Unfortunately, one of the bones made it past the chew inspection and became lodged in my throat. Large quantities of beer and the bread that came with the meal forced it to where I could no longer feel it.
So, if you want to try the local speciality, look no further. This place is outstanding. Oh, and the service was also amazing. Thses are the Hungarians I enjoy. You can't go wrong here, if not the carp, the duck or pork or duck liver floating in its own fat .... yum!
After, like me, walk across the street to Palack Wine Bar (Palack borbár) and sit back, enjoy the view of the Gellert Hotel and the Liberty Bridge with a nice local wine; and again, excellent service from a kind staff.
Szeged Restaurant
Szeged Vendéglő
https://maps.app.goo.gl/HVhjeQ2RMdzhNcA97
