The Ultimate Budapest Food Guide

The Ultimate Budapest Food Guide

Haley
After four year living in Budapest, it's safe to say I've tried a few of the restaurants. This is my ultimate guide to eating in Budapest - from fine dining to local cuisine, rooftop views and garden terraces - you are sure to find something you like here! Disclaimer: Always check online that the restaurant is still open before planning a visit. For higher-end restaurants, it is recommended to make a reservation before hand. *All photos in this guide are mine (not those linked to specific locations). For more travel photos, check out my Instagram @haleykato_travels
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Hungarian Cuisine

Aranybástya
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Nestled in the castle district in front of the Buda Castle, this Hungarian restaurant offers beautiful views of the Danube and Parliament building at night.
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Kispiac Bisztro
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Described to me by a Hungarian friend as 'the best Hungarian food' in Budapest. Recommended Order: Csirkepaprikás - chicken braised in creamy paprika sauce.
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Paprika Vendéglő
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Go for the vibes alone. This place is decorated with traditional Hungarian architecture and design. Recommended Order: Gulyasleves - the National dish of Hungary (Goulash soup)
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Historic Cafes

New York Café
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Although the lines may be long and the prices steep, there is a reason why this beautiful hotel and cafe is famous!
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Művész Coffee House (Artist Cafe)
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Another great place to try traditional and house-made desserts like Dobos torta or Palacsinta
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Café Gerbeaud
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Located in the beautiful Vörösmarty square, this high-ceilinged cafe with chandeliers has traditional and home-made Hungarian desserts as well as chocolates. Recommended order: Palacsinta - Hungarian pancakes with chocolate sauce. Dobos torta - Hungarian sponge cake layered with chocolate buttercream and a hardened caramel layer on top.
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Go for the View

Intermezzo Roof Terrace
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360 Bar
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Perfectly situated on Andrassy avenue
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High Note SkyBar
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Go for the Experience

An absolute must-do activity during your time in Budapest is to take a boat tour along the Danube. The best time to go is at sunset so you can see the city during golden hour, then watch it slowly light up as the darkness sets in. My favorite experience was booking a bottomless prosecco boat tour, but you can also book dining experiences as well.

KönyvBár & Restaurant
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Check their website for the monthly book - each month they 'cook a book' and curate a menu linked to the plot. Such a great experience to enjoy with fellow readers!
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Zoo Café
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A reservation is required as you book a timeslot. Animals are brought to you on rotation while you sip your coffee.
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The MAGIC Budapest
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A fun themed restaurant and bar for any Harry Potter lover.
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SOLID Rooftop Brunch Restaurant
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Stunning views and a gorgeous brunch menu. It is the sister restaurant of Michelin starred SALT which is located just downstairs.
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Leo Rooftop Budapest
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Great for brunch or for dinner. This rooftop spot is located right at the end of the famous Chain bridge for views of both the castle district hills and parliament.
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Fine Dining

Spago Budapest by Wolfgang Puck
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What more can one say about Wolfgang Puck? The location is stunning at night at the edge of the Erzebet bridge with views of the Danube and Gellert hill.
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Salt
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Sustainability is at the core of this 1 Michelin Starred restaurant which features locally grown and sourced ingredients and a twist on Hungarian classics.
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Brunch

SOLID Rooftop Brunch Restaurant
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Stunning views and a gorgeous brunch menu. It is the sister restaurant of Michelin starred SALT which is located just downstairs.
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Cookie Beacon Brunch
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Located just around the corner from the famous St. Stephens Basilica, often with a line out the door. Go for the most insanely chunky and delicious cookies! Their brunch menu is also a hit. Recommended: Carrot Cake Pancakes
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Brunch Bistro Budapest
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Several locations throughout the city. This brunch spot is fresh and delicious.
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Quick Bites

Street Food Karavan Budapest
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The perfect food truck venue with various options in a location that will guide you seamlessly into a night out on the town - Just walking distance from the famous Szimpla Kert.
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Retro Lángos Budapest
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An absolute MUST try when in Hungary - Langos. And if you are going to have Langos, this is the place to have it! Great prices and a variety of options but I always recommend trying the original: sour cream, cheese, and garlic.
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Central Market Hall
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The entry level has produce, meat, wine, and other local treats. The upper level has a few restaurants and souvenirs.
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Having a Chimney Cake (or Kürtőskalács) is quintessential Budapest. Here is an insider tip - don't go to the touristy stands at the Christmas markets. These are expensive and not as good! Buy your Chimney Cake from the tiny stands in the Metro Stations. They are the best!

International Cuisine

Italian

Trattoria Pomo D'Oro
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The best Italian in Budapest with a very extensive menu.
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Circo Pizza
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A very small location with a wood-fire pizza oven.
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Mexican

Tereza Mexican Restaurant
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Fantastic outdoor and indoor space. They make their own homemade tortilla chips and the nachos are delicious!
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Iguana Bar and Grill
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A fun Tex-Mex spot with their own beer on tap.
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Cuisines from Asia

TOKIO
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The only place to go for Sushi in Budapest.
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Rim Thanonh Thai Food
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Having lived in Thailand for 4 years myself, I take my Thai food very seriously. This Thai family-owned restaurant is top tier!
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Cuisines from the Mediterranean & Middle East

Mazel Tov
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A mixture of a ruins bar and a restaurant located beautifully in the Jewish quarter.
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Dobrumba
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The perfect place for eclectic Mediterranean-inspired sharing plates.
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PINGRUMBA
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The sister-restaurant to Dobgrumba located on the other side of the Danube with a similar menu.
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Bigfish Seafood Bistro
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If you are craving seafood in this landlocked country, Big Fish is your spot. You order as if you were at a fish market and pay by weight for your food, although they also have menu items.
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Drink Destinations

Bortodoor City
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These guys know their wine! If you go on the right night, you might be lucky enough to enjoy Wine Mafia night and put your wine tasting knowledge to the test!
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HOPAHOLIC Craft Beer Bar & Food Budapest
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Gravity Brewing
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Beer Brothers
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InVitro BeerBar
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Párisi Udvar Hotel Budapest - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
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A high-end spot in a gorgeous building. Perfect for a cocktail before a fancy dinner.
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Ruins Bars

Szimpla Kert
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The most famous of the ruins bars for its multi-tiered mish-mash of knick-knacks and hob-knobs. Go for the party at night or check it out Saturday mornings for a local market.
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Csendes Létterem - Vintage Bar & Café
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With graffiti from floor to ceiling, this is a lesser known ruins bar for tourists but a great spot the locals love.
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Instant-Fogas Complex
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For those who like to party the night away. Be careful, you might get lost in here!
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Haley
I'm a seasoned globetrotter with nearly a decade of living abroad and passport stamped with over 50 countries, and counting. My journey has taken me across continents, deeply immersing me in diverse cultures and ways of life. I spent four transformative years living in Thailand where I embraced the local cuisine, explored ancient temples, and participated in vibrant festivals, gaining an insider’s perspective on what makes South-east Asia truly special. Next, Hungary became my home for another four years. In Budapest, I immersed myself in the city's enchanting blend of history and modernity. From the grand architecture to the thermal baths and the lively ruin bars, I discovered the unique charm of Hungarian culture and its hidden wonders, all the while exploring nearby European destinations. Currently, I call Türkiye home, where I’m captivated by the country’s dynamic fusion of East and West. Living here has allowed me to explore the diverse landscapes from the majestic peaks of Cappadocia to the stunning coastlines of the Mediterranean. The rich history, vibrant markets, and warm hospitality continue to inspire my travel planning. With my extensive travel experience and deep knowledge of these incredible destinations, I specialize in crafting personalized itineraries that bring out the best in every journey. Whether you seek a serene getaway, an adventurous escapade, or an immersive cultural experience, let me help you design the perfect travel plan tailored just for you. Your next adventure is just a step away. Let’s turn your travel dreams into unforgettable memories! Happy Travels! xx Haley
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