Hey, travel lovers and fantasy fans! If you’ve ever dreamed of spotting a wildling from Game of Thrones roaming the streets of Budapest, your imagination just got a little closer to reality. Kristofer Hivju—yep, the one and only Tormund Giantsbane—recently popped into Costes, Hungary’s pioneering Michelin-starred restaurant, for a meal that’s got everyone talking. I mean, who wouldn’t want to see this Norwegian powerhouse trading his furs for a fine dining experience in the heart of Budapest? Let’s unpack this tasty tidbit and explore why this celebrity sighting is a big deal for locals and tourists alike in 2025!
A Wildling in the Kitchen
Imagine this: it’s a chilly February evening in Budapest, and the city’s buzzing with its usual mix of history, charm, and that unbeatable food scene. Then, out of nowhere, Kristofer Hivju strolls into Costes, the upscale eatery that snagged Hungary’s first Michelin star back in 2010. This isn’t just any restaurant—it’s a culinary landmark, and Hivju’s visit had the staff buzzing. Chef Jenő Rácz, the mastermind behind the menu, couldn’t resist snapping a group photo with the actor and sharing it via an Instagram Story on February 19th. Later, Costes made it official with a post of their own, showing Hivju grinning alongside the team. It’s the kind of moment that makes you wish you’d been there, fork in hand, to witness it live!
Source: Instagram.
For those who don’t know him (where have you been?), Hivju is the rugged Norwegian actor who brought Tormund to life in HBO’s Game of Thrones. With his fiery beard and larger-than-life energy, he stole scenes—and hearts—across Westeros. But he’s not just a one-hit wonder; you might’ve caught him as the cursed Nivellen in Netflix’s The Witcher, proving he’s got a knack for fantasy roles. Whether he’s in Budapest for a secret project or just soaking up the city’s vibes on a personal trip, one thing’s clear: he’s got impeccable taste in food. Costes, with its sleek vibes and innovative dishes, was the perfect pitstop.
Why Costes? A Michelin-Starred Milestone
Let’s talk about Costes for a second. Nestled in the 9th district on Ráday Street, this place isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a Budapest icon. When it nabbed that Michelin star 15 years ago, it put Hungarian fine dining on the global map. Think elegant plating, bold flavors, and a wine list that’ll make your head spin (in a good way). Under Jenő Rácz’s watch, it’s stayed a hotspot for foodies, blending Hungarian roots with international flair. A meal here isn’t cheap—expect to drop around 30,000-40,000 HUF ($80-100 USD) per person for the full experience—but it’s worth every forint for the quality and prestige.
So why would Hivju pick Costes? Maybe it’s the allure of a Michelin-starred meal, or maybe he heard about their legendary foie gras or perfectly paired Tokaji wines. For a guy who’s battled White Walkers, a night of gourmet indulgence in Budapest feels like a well-earned treat. Plus, Costes has a knack for attracting big names—the word is John Cena, who swung by not long ago—so Hivju’s in good company.
Budapest: A Celebrity Magnet in 2025
Hivju’s visit isn’t a one-off. Budapest’s been a magnet for celebs lately, and Game of Thrones fans are eating it up. Just recently, Emilia Clarke—aka Daenerys Targaryen herself—was spotted getting a manicure in the trendy 13th district’s Újlipótváros. Is Budapest secretly turning into Westeros East? With its stunning architecture, buzzing nightlife, and a film industry that’s been booming (thanks to tax incentives and world-class studios), it’s no wonder stars are flocking here. In 2024 alone, the city hosted over 12 million tourists, and 2025 is shaping up to be even bigger.
Whether Hivju’s here filming a new blockbuster or just chilling between projects, his stop at Costes adds another layer to Budapest’s star-studded story. Could he be scouting locations for a Witcher spinoff? Or maybe he’s just here to soak in the thermal baths and ruin bars? We don’t have the scoop yet, but the mystery only makes it more fun.
What’s on the Plate at Costes?
Curious what Tormund might’ve chowed down on? Costes is all about elevated Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist. Picture dishes like tender venison with forest mushrooms or a creamy paprika-infused soup that nods to tradition while wowing your taste buds. Their tasting menus are the real draw—multi-course journeys that change with the seasons, often paired with Hungarian wines from regions like Eger or Villány. If Hivju went for the full experience, he might’ve savored a dessert like their signature chocolate ganache with sour cherry—a Budapest classic reborn in Michelin style. Whatever he ordered, you can bet it was a far cry from wildling stew!
Planning Your Own Costes Adventure
Inspired to follow in Hivju’s footsteps? Costes is easy to reach—take the M3 metro to Kálvin tér, then stroll a few minutes to Ráday Street. Book ahead (seriously, don’t wing it—this place fills up fast), and dress smart casual to match the vibe. It’s open Tuesday to Saturday, with dinner service kicking off around 6 PM. If you’re on a budget, their lunch menu’s a steal compared to dinner, but either way, it’s a splurge worth making. Afterward, explore the 9th district—hit up a ruin bar like Szimpla Kert or grab a coffee at one of the hip cafés nearby.
A Taste of Budapest’s Star Power
Hivju’s Costes cameo isn’t just a win for Game of Thrones fans—it’s a testament to Budapest’s growing rep as a global hotspot. From its historic castles to its cutting-edge dining, this city’s got something for everyone. And when a guy like Kristofer Hivju trades his axe for a fork here, it’s a reminder that Budapest’s magic isn’t just in its sights—it’s in its flavors, its people, and those unexpected moments that make travel unforgettable.
So, next time you’re in town, swing by Costes. You might not bump into Tormund, but you’ll taste why this city’s stealing the spotlight—one Michelin star at a time. Got a favorite Budapest foodie spot? Drop it in the comments—I’m always hungry for more!