Alelí Budapest has a problem most restaurants would kill for: it’s so popular that getting a table requires planning, patience, and sometimes luck. The Dani García-affiliated Italian spot near Andrássy út earned Michelin recognition and a reputation for some of the best pasta in Central Europe.

Their solution? Open a younger sibling that’s easier to access, more casual, and just as delicious.

ANTON by Alelí launched in late 2025, and it’s already becoming the place locals recommend when someone asks “where should we eat Italian?”

The Concept

ANTON keeps the DNA of Alelí — authentic Italian ingredients, Giorgio Cavicchiolo’s cooking philosophy, house-made everything — but strips away the formality. This is “wine and fire,” as they put it: wood-fired cooking, natural wines, and a vibe that encourages staying longer than planned.

The menu is simpler than its parent restaurant, but “simpler” here still means hand-rolled pasta, proper Italian technique, and ingredients that taste like they were flown in this morning (because they probably were).

What to Order

  • Pasta — The reason to come. Whatever’s fresh, trust it.
  • Wood-fired dishes — The fire isn’t decoration
  • Italian wines — The list is curated, not overwhelming

The Vibe

If Alelí is where you go for a special occasion, ANTON is where you go on a Tuesday because you want good food and don’t feel like cooking. The music is louder, the atmosphere more casual, and nobody minds if you show up in jeans.

Practical Info

ANTON by Alelí

  • Address: Dorottya utca 2, 1051 Budapest (near Vörösmarty tér)
  • Website: antonbyaleli.aleli.hu
  • Instagram: @Anton_by_Aleli
  • Reservations: Walk-ins welcome, no reservation needed
  • Hours: Open for lunch and dinner

Prices (2026):

  • Pizzas from 4,500 Ft (~€11)
  • Artichoke pizza: 5,200 Ft (~€13)
  • Mac ‘n’ cheese with truffle: 4,900 Ft (~€12)
  • Lasagne, cannelloni: similar range

Significantly cheaper than Alelí, excellent value for the quality.

The Verdict

Not everyone can get into Alelí. Everyone can get into ANTON — and eat nearly as well for half the price.

More Budapest Food

Looking for more Italian? Check out our Budapest Pizza Guide for the city’s best slices.