The Rosemary

The Rosemary is a Hungarian restaurant located in South London, offering a rare and authentic taste of Hungary in a city where such cuisine is hard to find. Founded by Mihaly and Jozsef, the restaurant was born from their passion for traditional Hungarian food and culture.

The Rosemary embraces sustainability and craftsmanship, with much of its warm, welcoming interior made by hand by Mihaly's son with tableware made by Mihaly, giving the space a personal, community-focused feel. For those unfamiliar with Hungarian food, The Rosemary provides the perfect introduction. The menu is full of traditional dishes, crafted using the finest ingredients sourced from organic farms. The owners will proudly tell you that everything is made from scratch: from the noodles to the pancakes, so you know you’re getting authentic home-cooking here.

Must-try dishes include goulash, a hearty meat stew flavoured with paprika, and hortobágyi palacsinta, savory pancakes filled with spiced meat. We particularly like the sound of the warming minced pork and rice-stuffed cabbage leaves served with sour cream and the delicious sweet treats, like chestnuts mashed with sugar and rum, topped with whipped cream.

More than just a restaurant, The Rosemary serves as a cultural hub for the local community. The events programme includes live music, Hungarian dance performances, and food-related events that immerse diners in the rich cultural heritage of Hungary, so be sure to keep checking the calender.

The restaurant is also deeply involved in charitable work, organising fundraising events and collaborating with local charities to support community development, promote healthy living and invest in a greener future for their neighbourhood.

Whether you're well-versed in Hungarian cuisine or looking to explore something new, The Rosemary offers an authentic and welcoming experience. Its focus on traditional food, handmade interiors, and community spirit make it a true gem in New Cross.