Oak Bar · Epicurean

Epicurean: Oak Bar – Award-Winning Restaurant Design and Interior Concept in Budapest

The Epicurean: Oak Bar project represents a comprehensive approach to restaurant design in Budapest and interior design in Budapest, where spatial storytelling and gastronomy merge into a unique, immersive experience. The project has received prestigious professional recognition in 2025, highlighting its position among award winning interior design concepts on both a national and international level.

At the Klassis TopDesign 2025 competition, Epicurean was honored with the Best NewConcept Gastro Venue 2025 award. In addition, the Oak Bar interior design project received the Interior Designer of the Year 2025 – Project Award, presented by the National Association of Interior Designers.

Design Concept: A Gastronomic Symphony in Space

The core design concept is built around a strong narrative: the interior is not merely a backdrop, but an active part of the overall experience. Each space represents a chapter in a “gastronomic symphony,” guiding guests through a carefully curated journey.

The evening unfolds across three distinct spaces:

• The Oak Bar – where the experience begins with wines and aperitifs
• Epicurean restaurant – the central space offering insight into the creative culinary process
• Polo Lounge – an intimate finale with desserts and digestifs

This spatial composition was a key element of the restaurant design, ensuring that each function connects seamlessly into one cohesive experience.

An Exclusive Gastro Venue in Budapest

This gastro venue stands out not only for its design, but also for its operational concept. Hosting only 14 guests at a time, the space offers an intimate and highly personalized experience.

The interior design focuses on refined material use, lighting, and spatial proportions, creating a sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere. Every detail contributes to a harmonious balance between aesthetics and functionality—hallmarks of high-end interior design in Budapest.

The culinary offering is closely aligned with the design concept:

• a carefully curated wine selection
• artisan cured meats inspired by Basque traditions
• a menu combining local ingredients with global influences

Inspiration and Creative Vision

The inspiration behind the project stems from the international experiences and culinary journey of the Coelho family. The aim was to create a space—and a menu—that freely blends cultures, techniques, and emotions without rigid boundaries.

Chef André Bicalho draws inspiration from global cuisines, reinterpreting flavors through his own distinctive style. Each dish tells a personal story, perfectly aligned with the overarching interior design narrative.

Epicurean: Oak Bar is a compelling example of how restaurant design in Budapest, interior design in Budapest, and gastronomy can come together within a cohesive and award winning interior design concept. The result is a unique gastro destination where space, taste, and storytelling form a unified experience.