In this edition of Hypedome Stories, we’re thrilled to introduce you to Teyfol, a charming restaurant tucked away in Szentendre, just a short drive from Budapest. Renowned for blending traditional Hungarian cuisine with a creative twist, Teyfol has become a sensation far beyond its local roots. Journey with us as we explore the unique dining experiences and the famed dining dome with the owner, Brigitta Szászfai.
Q: Since its opening last summer, Teyfol has become a social media sensation, capturing the attention of local magazines and food enthusiasts alike. Can you tell us about the concept behind it?
Brigitta: Teyfol, a playful take on ‘Tejfol’ (Hungarian for sour cream), encapsulates the essence of our restaurant – Hungarian cuisine with an innovative twist. Each dish on our menu is a classic Hungarian recipe, but with our unique touch that makes it truly special.
Our philosophy extends beyond the kitchen. We’re committed to supporting small Hungarian producers, sourcing not just our food ingredients but also the drinks on our menu locally. From artisanal coffee to homemade gin, whisky, and juices, our restaurant is a treasure trove of local delights. We’re proud to work with around 40 suppliers, bringing the unseen and unsung culinary artisans of Hungary into the spotlight. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a wine connoisseur, we promise a journey through the hidden gems of Hungarian gastronomy.
Q: Your Instagram showcases some unique dishes, like the fish with popcorn. Can you share more about this innovative approach?
Brigitta: Absolutely, innovation is key at Teyfol. For instance, our trout with popcorn dish with various corn textures are modern twists on childhood classics – like fish fingers with corn salad. We source fresh trout locally and play with five different corn textures including popcorn, polenta, and corn cream. It’s all about transforming simple, nostalgic flavors into something modern and exciting.
Q: With so many positive reviews online, I'm curious about the types of guests Teyfol attracts. Who usually dines at Teyfol?
Brigitta: Our guests include diverse people, all drawn to our commitment to sustainable, farm-to-fork dining philosophy. We see locals who visit regularly, informed tourists who research us beforehand, and even those who travel long distances for a special dining experience. We’ve had guests change travel plans just to revisit us. It’s a mix of conscious consumers who value what they eat and the story behind it.
Q: I noticed the TikTok video of your dining dome, which became an instant sensation. Would you say the Hypedome is a hit?
Brigitta: Definitely. Our dining dome offers a super premium, private experience. It’s like a cozy living room set up just for one group at a time, whether a couple or a small group of four to five. With comfortable couches, books, board games, and even an electric fireplace, it’s far more than just outdoor seating.
The experience is heightened by a chef who serves meals directly from the kitchen to the dome. It’s like having a personal chef’s table in an intimate, exclusive setting.
Q: I hear there's a special menu exclusive to the dome. Can you share more about it?
Brigitta: Absolutely. In the dome, guests have a wide range of choices. The minimum spend is 27,000 forints (about 80 euros), which typically covers a two-course meal with drinks. We don’t charge a rental fee for the Dome; it’s purely based on minimum consumption.
For a truly unique experience, guests can opt for the four-course surprise meal crafted by our chef. It’s a culinary adventure, with dishes varying daily, sometimes featuring items from our main menu or exclusive creations. Guests can specify their dietary preferences, and our chef will tailor the meal accordingly.
Q: That sounds incredible. How did the initial bookings for the igloo go?
Brigitta: The response was phenomenal! For December, the dome was fully booked within 48 hours of opening bookings. The TikTok video showcasing the igloo went viral with 400,000 views in a day, which led to an overwhelming number of calls, messages, and emails from people eager to book a spot.
We operate the dome from Wednesday to Sunday, offering two-hour slots from 4 PM to 10 PM, when it’s dark outside, which is when the magic really happens. The garden and the Hypedome are illuminated with lights wrapped around fig trees and columns, creating a magical, storybook-like atmosphere.
For January, bookings filled up incredibly fast too. We needed to hold off on February bookings to accommodate the guests with igloo vouchers, ensuring they get a chance to experience the dome. And again, every single slot was filled – it’s been an absolute hit!
Q: And what's been the reaction of guests after experiencing the dome?
Brigitta: Our guests are enchanted! Many say it’s like something out of a Hollywood film. They’re in love with the whole experience.
We add to the magic by making their journey to the dome a little adventure. Instead of directly walking through a sliding glass door from the restaurant, we guide them around, taking them downstairs near the bathrooms and then up another way into the lit-up garden. It feels like a secret, surprise pathway, enhancing the sense of entering a magical, hidden world.
Q: It sounds like every evening is special in your dome. But have there been any particularly memorable events so far?
Brigitta: Well, it looks like the dome is a real magnet for special occasions! One of the standout moments was in early January. Although the restaurant was closed for holidays, we had a gentleman who was so captivated by the dome that he rented it for a marriage proposal. We reopened just for this special occasion. He proposed to his girlfriend with a romantic setup including a sax player, a guitarist, and a photographer. They celebrated their engagement right there in the Hypedome. It was incredibly heartwarming and lovely.
Q: One last question – did you always plan to introduce an igloo on the terrace for the colder season?
Brigitta: Reflecting on our journey, the idea of the dome evolved later. Our terrace, which hosts up to 30 guests in the summertime, posed an interesting challenge as winter approached. The thought of heating the entire area during our first year seemed impractical and costly, and I just wanted to do something special with this space.
So, the concept of the dome was born. It’s a transformation of our summer terrace into a unique, exclusive winter experience. It’s not just a dining space; it’s a complete experience, enhancing the allure of Teyfol. It’s also a strategic way to attract guests to our exceptional cuisine and create an unforgettable dining experience. This way, guests leave with lasting memories, eager to return for more.
As we close our delightful feature on Teyfol, it’s evident that this gem near Budapest is a must-visit for anyone seeking a unique blend of traditional and innovative Hungarian dining. We invite you to indulge in this culinary adventure and create your own memorable moments.
And if you’re intrigued by the creative use of domes like the one at Teyfol, our Hypedome Stories are the place to go. Dive into a world where imagination meets reality with Hypedomes!