1. Who are you?

My name is Suzanne Urpecz. I’m the creator of The Hungarian Girl which is a dedicated blog/website about Central & Eastern European food and culture.

I’m currently studying Culinary Arts at George Brown College in Toronto, Canada. I’m preparing to open my own authentic Hungarian restaurant in the near future. As well, I operate a specialty cake business that offers the very best in Central and Eastern European desserts.

In addition, I have a background in Journalism – Broadcasting and I’m a graduate of Seneca College. Previously, I worked at the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in their newsroom.

2. What do you like about what you do?

I’ve always wanted to have my own business. I now have the ability to combine two of my greatest passions which is cooking and writing. I also enjoy meeting new people and travelling.

3. What don’t you like about what you do?

The downside of running your own business is that it can be difficult and stressful at times. You’re the “captain of the ship” and that means you’re responsible in making all the necessary decisions. It’s also tough trying to manage a business without proper financing but it also encourages me to find different and unique strategies. Regardless, I always look forward to undertaking new challenges with my business.

4. Please tell us about ‘The Hungarian Girl’ and your aims?

The Hungarian Girl aims to be the #1 portal of information about Central and Eastern European food and culture. In the future, I hope to have my own authentic Hungarian restaurant under the same name. I would also like to have my own television show that focuses on the food and culture of these regions.

5. Are you working with other blogs and if yes, which ones and why?

I’m currently working in a partnership to launch an official website called the Friends of the Tokaji Renaissance. The website will feature information, news, events, articles and reviews about Hungary’s famous sweet wine.

6. Your TOP 3 hotel experiences and why?

One of my most memorable hotel experiences was staying at a bed & breakfast located in the township of Haliburton in Northern Ontario called Swiss Acres. My fiancé and I were staying in the area to go dogsledding that weekend. They treated us like family and made our stay really special. I’ll never forget their wonderful hospitality.

Another excellent hotel experience was staying at the Hotel Palazzo Zichy in Budapest. The hotel is located in a historical building that was originally designed and constructed in the 19th century. It’s such a gorgeous place and the staff is incredibly friendly. I would certainly return to their hotel on my next stay in Budapest.

I would also really like to mention that staying at The Ring Hotel was fantastic! You’ve got a great concept that combines the best of luxury and casual in Vienna.

7. Your TOP 3 food/restaurant experiences and why?

I live in Toronto which is a very multicultural city. One of the best things about the city is the variety of ethnic food. Little India is a place I often enjoy going to which serves authentic Northern Indian cuisine. The family-run restaurant has a wide variety of dishes and the service is excellent. They also have a great lunch buffet.

Of course, being the Hungarian Girl I’m always looking for the very best in Hungarian food. During my last visit to Budapest, I was highly impressed with Bagolyvar Restaurant. I had their chicken paprikash and it was amazing! I also really liked Callas Café and Restaurant for their incredible cakes and pastries.

8. Which food/restaurant concept would you like to share with us?

Quality and service are the two most important elements to managing a successful restaurant. I also believe that going the distance for your customers is always beneficial. Everyone wants to feel appreciated and when you do something special for a customer such as offering them a free dessert or an appetizer. The customer will most likely remember that positive experience and will want to return again to your establishment. After all, you only have one chance to make a lasting impression in this industry.

9. Any comments you want to share with us?

I would really like to thank my family and friends for supporting me throughout my career.