Gábor
Nagy

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live in Budapest, Hungary. I work here but I used to travel to the countryside as well to work in the family business next to my own projects. There are several times a year when I travel abroad because of work.

Do you have a favorite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

Mostly I just go for a walk in the city centre or to the Margaret Island. But there are a lot of possibilities to relax and enjoy the day for example a good exhibition at some of the museums in the city. If I have more time I use to go to the National Botanical Garden of Hungary, Vácrátót. It is not so far from Budapest by car and has a wonderful atmosphere.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

One of these is the economic impact of the war. The level of inflation, etc. I think these problems exist almost everywhere in Europe. Another problem is how to create more jobs.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years—and what has not?

Numerous renovation works have been and are currently being carried out in all parts of Budapest. I think that’s very good. The renovation of the opera house, for example, has turned out fantastically. It’s a very beautiful place for tourists visiting Budapest.

One of the negative aspects of the city, especially in the city centre, is the number of parking spaces. There are lots of cars, but very few parking spaces. We definitely need more of them.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers—whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

We have some very nice manufacturers with great products; I could name many. But if we are talking about something very local, we have to mention a few local dishes, such as chimney cake, goulash soup, paprika chicken with sour cream, stuffed cabbage, lángos, Rákóczi túrós or Mákosguba. Every tourist should try them.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

I think we have almost the same projects as most European countries.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

Yes, in fact a few:
– Kiosk
– Menza
– 0,75 Bistro
– Twentysix

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

We have some special stores in the city center where tourists can find handmade folkart products, creations from hungarian fine artists or for example products with lavander from Tihany.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

I use Instagram, Facebook and Gmail daily.

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

I read various national online newspapers regularly and get the information I need from them. Also from social media.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year—what would you change?

I would make more green spaces, organise more cultural and artistic events and exhibitions, and give local artists and designers more opportunities to showcase themselves and their art nationally and internationally.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live—regardless of financial or time constrains—which one would you choose?

I like Budapest, so I would probably stay here, but if I had to choose a country, I would choose Italy. I really like the Italian way of thinking and culture, and much more.