Alexander the Guest Shares His Secrets to Success in the Restaurant Industry

INTERVIEW

From ownership of Michelin-starred 42, to informing the users of social media on where to eat, Sandor Varga has made a new name for himself, under the alias of Alexander the Guest. The creator behind a popular YouTube channel, and the owner of a Michelin-starred hotspot in Hungary shares his unique perspective on the importance of process in cultivating a killer menu. From his approach to restaurant reviews to insights on what makes a unique dining experience, Alexander the Guest discusses the importance of creativity, self-identity, and teamwork.

Speaking with CSP Times, Sandor sat down to discuss the curation of his brand identity as Alexander the Guest, and the need to make a name for yourself in the ever-evolving culinary world through authenticity and individuality.

How and why did you start your YouTube channel, Alexander The Guest?

I originally had a Hungarian channel, but a friend and advisor once told me that since I travel so much and visit so many incredible places, why not create a channel about it? It was a challenge, and I don’t back down from challenges. We created Alexander The Guest to showcase more than just food. It is about the full experience.

As the owner of Michelin-starred 42 in Hungary, how do you inspire chefs?

You would have to ask the chefs, haha.

What we’re trying to do is showcase exciting flavour combinations, creative plating, and techniques that can inspire on many levels. It is not just about the final result but also the process, the journey behind the dishes. More than anything, we want people to understand the incredible teamwork it takes to bring something truly exceptional to

life. From what we show, a curious person can see the work behind it, and it might even give them new ideas.

How did you get into cooking?

I didn’t. Many people assumed I was a chef at first, but I’m a mathematician, not a cook. My skill is in analysis, not execution. That being said, I once made scrambled eggs in university and thought I was onto something, and it turned out, that this was both the beginning and the end of my cooking career.

What do you look for when reviewing restaurants?

I appreciate the classics, but I’m also excited by new places. What’s important to me is bold, sharp flavours, a great wine list, interesting non-alcoholic pairings, a well-designed interior, and strong service. But most of all, it’s the fabulous humans behind it all that matter the most.

What differentiates a good restaurant from a great one?

There is no cutting corners, and absolute attention to detail is key and the energy of the place and the inner joy of the team. At the end of the day, every business depends on recruitment, and restaurants are no different. So if you have great people, you will have a great restaurant. Especially today.

What are your preferred wines and why?

I have one life and one liver, so at this age, I am only aiming for the best. I love Burgundies and champagnes from top producers. And if you ask me, my all-time favourite is Krug Clos du Mesnil 1996 Magnum.

How do you choose which restaurants to review?

Curiosity leads my life, and it’s no different when it comes to restaurants. If it’s worth it, I’ll go there and review it.

What are the most common mistakes restaurants make?

From my perspective, it’s lacking identity and simply copying others. We shouldn’t try to create something bigger than we can deliver or promise more than we can offer.

Selling empty stories and cutting corners are big mistakes too. We should always strive to push our own boundaries, but never try to be much bigger than we are. There’s a process, a journey, and it takes time. Restaurants need to embrace their growth and identity, not try to skip steps or sell empty stories.

Do you have any bucket list restaurants?

No. If a restaurant is exceptional, I go. The industry evolves too quickly for static lists. The most relevant establishments are the ones defining the future, not just those with history.

What is next for you?

We’ve started reviewing great places, and my curiosity will always lead the way.

Follow Alexander The Guest on Instagram