Wolfgang Puck Brings Int'l Film Industry Glamour to Budapest

In 1982, Austrian chef Wolfgang Puck captured the attention of Hollywood when he unveiled Spago on the Sunset Strip. Spago became the first restaurant with an open show kitchen, resembling a stage in the heart of the dining area, setting it apart from its competitors with its inviting ambiance and vibrant decor.

Puck's association with Hollywood luminaries began in 1985 when he hosted an event for Irving Paul "Swifty" Lazar at Spago, attended by stars like Diana Ross, Cary Grant, Jodie Foster, and Robin Williams. The first Gala of the world’s most famous film industry awards was held in 1995, marking the start of a 30-year tradition.

"I remember at the beginning Julia Roberts came into the kitchen - she loved our food so much - so everyone was very excited," he says. "I don't know if she won an Academy Award at the time, but she was in the kitchen taking pictures with all the chefs. I also remember when Joaquin Phoenix won Best Actor in 2019 for The Joker. He's vegan, so I took him into the kitchen. We made lots of vegan food and he ate in the kitchen with us. He told me that he'd been eating vegan food for years, but it was never as good as it was there with me," Puck recalls.

With over 100 restaurants worldwide, Puck attributes his success to a balance of innovation and tradition, keeping the design fresh and the menu dynamic.

In the spirit of innovation and tradition, Matild Palace is poised to host its inaugural red-carpet event, inviting acclaimed stars of the Hungarian film industry as special guests.

"As our hotel approaches its third anniversary, we aim to celebrate in style. Matild Palace epitomizes exclusivity, and what better way to mark the occasion than with a gala linked to the world's most prestigious golden statue?" remarks Selim Ölmez, the hotel's general manager.

Ölmez, having witnessed the Hungarian film industry's remarkable international achievements during his time in Hungary, deems it fitting to honor them in collaboration with Wolfgang Puck.

At the Red Carpet Event on May 10, Wolfgang Puck and the Hungarian team, led by Spago Budapest executive chef István Szántó, will bring a fusion of international gala cuisine and Hollywood allure to Budapest.

The culinary team will be further strengthened by the presence of Tetsu Yahagi, director of Culinary Development of Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group, Della Gossett, pastry chef of Wolfgang Puck Fine Dining Group, and Wolfgang Puck's son, Byron Puck, poised to continue the legacy of the Puck empire.

At the Academy Awards Gala two years ago, István Szántó joined the Hollywood team to present 2twoHungarian dishes, with altogether 100 chefs preparing 15,000 dishes for 1,500 guests. Though Spago Budapest may not be able to accommodate that many guests on May 10, enthusiasts can secure their place if they want to feel like being in Hollywood for one night.

For table reservations and further details, visit: https://spagobudapest.com/en/red-carpet-affair-honoring-the-stars-of-the-silver-screen