THE LEGEND
Discover his story and ours.
THE HOUSE OF THE CUPBEARER
The centuries-old history of Arany Hordó Restaurant unfolds from the cellar to the upper floors. Its foundations and cellar system take guests back to the 15th century, to the home of Miklós Pethő, the royal cupbearer. It was an age of splendour, when King Matthias and the Kingdom of Hungary flourished. Culture thrived, with painters, poets, and sculptors shaping a golden era. Buda Castle stood in unparalleled beauty, with its observatory tower, throne room, and the famed Corvina library.
At the heart of this vibrant world stood one man: Miklós Pethő, the Cupbearer. Under his leadership, grand feasts and celebrations came to life. The clinking of goblets mingled with music, laughter, and performance. At the tables, stories, alliances, and passions were born. Nobles, dreamers, and ambitious figures gathered in search of connection and opportunity. Wine flowed through the castle, carried from the Cupbearer’s own cellars through a vast network of tunnels. Anyone who is someone, or wants to be someone, is there, looking for company.
Intrigue and ambition moved quietly among the court, yet none could reach the King. The Cupbearer alone oversaw King Matthias’s wine – for while the crown grants power, it is the keeper of the King’s wine who holds his life in their hands.
SO WE BECAME ARANY HORDÓ
Over the centuries, the building has passed through many hands. After the Pethő family, glassmakers, merchants, and tailors each left their mark on its history. Though the storms of time damaged and rebuilt its walls, even the devastations of world wars could not erase its legacy.
Eventually, 16 Tárnok Street became the property of the Austrian brewery Gold Fassl and served as the company’s first brewery. It was during this period that the now-iconic barrel symbol was created. Interestingly, although the company brewed and sold beer, the building’s sign features a wine barrel – a likely tribute to the legacy of the Cupbearer.
Over time, for greater clarity, the name evolved into Arany Hordó. In 1973, the building took on its present role as the home of our restaurant, opening a new chapter in its long history.
Our team has proudly operated the restaurant for over 18 years, and it was fully renovated in 2026.
THE CUPBEARER
The Cupbearer was responsible for overseeing the monarch’s wine, the royal cellars, and the beverages served at court banquets. He held a high-ranking position at court and was one of the King’s trusted confidants. His work was supported by attendants, typically servants or lower-ranking officials, who served drinks to guests during feasts.
Though centuries have passed, the spirit of the place remains unchanged. Arany Hordó Restaurant continues this legacy with refined Hungarian cuisine and carefully selected wines, offering an experience fit for royalty.