Photo courtesy of Mak Bistro
Poppy seed clafoutis
Hours: Lunch: Tu.-Sa. noon-3 p.m.; Dinner: Tu.-Sa. 6 p.m.-midnight
Price: $$$ = Entrees $31-$60
Payment Options: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
Type: European
Kata Talas, a young 20-something chef who’s worked with acclaimed chef Heston Blumenthal in Bray, England, is at the helm of this modernist bistro near Central European University. The updated Hungarian cuisine highlights ambitious flavor combinations, such as sea bass with celeriac-tangerine salsa or braised neck of beef with black cabbage and hazelnut ice cream. Some dishes see a heavy Asian influence, including the delicious whole squab that’s infused with soy and ginger. The ever-busy bistro has an excellent selection of Hungarian wines and a knowledgeable staff to point you in the right direction.