Best Restaurants in Budapest: A Culinary Journey
The Hungarian capital, Budapest is home to a wide range of restaurants, from modest eateries to Michelin-starred dining experiences. While Hungarian cuisine is quite known as hearty and meat-heavy, numerous spots experiment with tradition and add modern interpretations to the classic dishes. If you want to learn where to eat in Budapest to taste the conventional recipes or try out innovative creations, this guide is for you.
In this article, we will explore the top restaurants in Budapest, from traditional Hungarian delights and Jewish dishes to vegan meals and high-end dining. After exploring all the free things to do in Budapest to develop a strong appetite, head to one of the countless excellent eateries in town.
In addition to exploring the city’s breathtaking historical center on free walking tours in Budapest, guests cannot miss the delightful array of incredible traditional Hungarian eateries. Take a look at the best restaurants in Budapest preserving the centuries-long culinary tradition.
You cannot visit Budapest in search of delicious Hungarian food and skip Rosenstein. One of the city’s most esteemed and beloved destinations, Rosenstein was launched by Tibor Rosenstein by now run by his son, Robert, preserving the family-operated tradition.
The menu features a range of classic Hungarian dishes with Jewish additions such as husleves, a hearty beef broth soup, cholent, a Jewish Sabbath stew, and numerous succulent goose dishes. For a more adventurous taste, try their tender beef tongue with horseradish, a staple of Hungarian cuisine.
The atmosphere at Rosenstein complements the homey food offerings with its charming wood paneling, cute tablecloths, and family pictures hung around the walls.
Address: Budapest, Mosonyi u. 3, 1087 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Sunday closed.
Another restaurant serving traditional Hungarian meals is Getto Gulyas, a central spot that offers tasty and hearty comfort food. The menu is brimming with such mouthwatering creations like Hungarian goulash, veal paprikash, pörkölt (meat stew), and lecso which is a Hungarian take on French ratatouille. The signature dish is turos csusza, pasta that blends soft cottage cheese with crispy bacon.
The dessert selection is also worth your time with its incredible cottage cheese dumplings and Hungarian sponge cake. The interior is a combination of rustic and industrial elements creating an unpretentious and welcoming ambiance that makes you want to stay longer.
Address: Budapest, Wesselényi utca 18, 1077 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11 pm.
This Michelin-starred restaurant is run by a Portuguese-Hungarian man and wife duo bringing tastes of two very different cultures and creating something new and beautiful. Start with the octopus with chorizo and aioli or foie gras with a glass of one of the iconic Hungarian wines. For the main course, go for ribeye with cabbage or Atlantic cod with paprika, both of which will stun you with their effortless simplicity and deliciousness.
Desserts are mostly inspired by the Portuguese tradition mixed with Hungarian fruits and berries. The restaurant’s atmosphere is soft and elegant offering just a few tables in a beautiful setting. Although the pricing is on the higher end, true foodies will certainly appreciate the unique fusion of Hungary and Portugal.
Address: Budapest, Sas u 17, 1051 Hungary
Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm, Wednesday from 6 pm to 11 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Another international gem, 101 Bistro is for those looking for pan-Asian fusion with modern designs and innovative recipes. The main inspiration was Taiwan and China, although the restaurant features Malaysian, Japanese, and other Asian flavors. The concept is small plates, allowing you to sample a large variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
From delectable sushi and delicate dim sum to aroma-filled curries and succulent duck confit bao buns, the restaurant won’t disappoint anyone who enjoys an Asian influence. Pair your meal with a delicious cocktail or a simple beer and embark on an exciting flavor journey amid modern Asian design with contemporary elegance.
Address: Budapest, Széll Kálmán tér 5, 1024 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 3:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm, Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm.
Hungarian cuisine is famously meat and bread heavy making it harder for people with various food sensitivities to truly enjoy it. But no worries, we have prepared a list of the best restaurants in Budapest that serve gluten-free and vegan versions of familiar Hungarian dishes.
Known as a popular breakfast spot, The Garden Cafe invites elements of Turkish cuisine into a Hungarian flavor profile. Located right near Buda Castle, the restaurant is among the pioneers of vegan food in the meat-heavy capital. From classics like poached eggs and granola to Anatolian specialties like triple cheese Gözleme and menemen, the menu is truly perfect for anyone who enjoys a full breakfast.
The dinner offerings will also not disappoint, with spicy cigkofte, vegan dolma, and a delicious mezze plate. The restaurant is also full of plants and trees, paying tribute to its name and creating a countryside vibe in the middle of a busy city.
Address: 1088 Budapest Bródy Sándor utca 10.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm.
Another rare vegan gem, Kozmosz features an impressive selection of plant-based comfort food made with vegan ingredients. The idea of the restaurant is to offer familiar European dishes with vegan twists like cheeseburger made with seitan patty and vegan cheese, fish and chips prepared with jackfruit, and meat-free stuffed cabbage. On weekends, you can sample all of these dishes and more at the all-you-can-eat buffet.
The cuisine is accompanied by a casual and homey interior with cosmos-themed design elements, mismatched furniture, and a cozy atmosphere. If you’re vegan or simply looking for a meat-free spot to grab a quick lunch, there’s no better place than Kozmosz.
Address: Budapest, Hunyadi tér 11, 1067 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30 1m to 9 pm.
People suffering from celiac disease or other gluten sensitivities will have a hard time exploring Hungarian food. However, Bohémtanya Gluténmentes Vendéglő is here to help with its lengthy menu of traditional Hungarian meals reinvented without gluten. For example, you can safely indulge in goulash, breaded meat dishes, and desserts without worrying about a flare-up.
This family-run establishment offers a very intimate and cozy vibe with folk decor, wooden furniture, and comfortable seating. The generous portions will not leave you bankrupt while allowing you to experience the taste of Hungary without gluten and irritating crowds of tourists.
Address: Budapest, Paulay Ede u. 6, 1061 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11 pm.
As the name suggests, Kata Pest is located in the Pest side of the town offering gluten-free dishes that don’t compromise conventional Hungarian flavors. Those seeking authentic celiac-safe culinary creations cannot skip this charming establishment. Their gluten-free offerings include langos, fried dough, cottage cheese pasta, chicken dumplings, and numerous pastries and desserts.
The atmosphere here is cozy and rather traditional featuring folk decor and some modern elements. Although the place is quite small, the owners use the space effectively and create an inviting ambiance. The price range is slightly elevated due to special gluten-free ingredients but remains reasonable and affordable, especially taking into account the generous portion size.
Address: Budapest, Hajós u. 27, 1065 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday from 12 pm to 10:30 pm, Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm.
In this part, we will explore Budapest restaurants beloved by local foodies. If you would like to immerse yourself in the Hungarian way of living, consider heading to one of the following best places to eat in Budapest.
Away from all the hustle and noise of the Hungarian capital, you will find a local favorite, namely Szaletly. The food selection features contemporary Hungarian cuisine enriched by international influences and locally sourced seasonal ingredients like ponzu and chimichurri. Start your meal with the beef tartare or lecso, Hungarian ratatouille, and move on to the iconic venison stroganoff and chicken dumplings, both signature dishes at Szaletly.
If you’re in the mood for a dessert and have saved some space for it, indulge in cranberry-chocolate ganache tart or traditional flódni, you will not regret it! Meanwhile, the interior will encourage you to stay longer due to its intimate and unintimidating atmosphere with neutral tones and warm lighting. Be ready for rather higher prices that guarantee consistency and high-quality ingredients.
Address: Budapest, Stefánia út 93, 1146 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11 pm.
Another hidden gem is Gyros Kerkyra offering authentic Greek flavors in the heart of Budapest. The menu boasts a wide array of Greek creations, starting with traditional gyros and expanding to souvlaki, Greek salad with feta, and honey-soaked baklava. The restaurant is a family-owned and run business, featuring authentic Greek recipes that the family brought from their homeland.
The eatery’s design is very reminiscent of modest tavernas from back home with national flag colors, cozy tables, and pictures of breathtaking Greek landscapes scattered across the space. In the summer, you can enjoy your delicious meal on the outdoor terrace so you don’t have to miss even a second of the pleasant Hungarian summer.
Address: Budapest, Petneházy u. 37-47, 1139 Hungary
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Mazel Tov is a modern Middle Eastern restaurant in the heart of the historic Jewish Quarter. Housed inside a gorgeous historic building, the restaurant boasts a rich menu full of fresh and vibrant Jewish cuisine with Mediterranean twists. From classic hummus plates with pita, shawarma with tender chicken meat, and shakshuka to diverse mezze platters, this spot is the epicenter of Middle Eastern flavors.
Pair your delectable dinner with a trendy cocktail with pomegranate, sumac, and zaatar, all the typical ingredients found in Jewish and Middle Eastern cuisine and mixology. The restaurant brims with lush greenery and charming lights, also featuring a glass rooftop allowing you to stargaze while feasting on delicious cuisine.
Address: Budapest, Akácfa u. 47, 1073 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to midnight.
Another staple of Jewish-Hungarian cuisine, Kőleves Vendéglő is located near not one but two synagogues in the Jewish Quarter. Housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the 1800s, the restaurant is a favorite among locals who enjoy traditional cuisine in a modern setting. The name translates to stone soup referencing a folk story that describes how you can create something extraordinary from simple ingredients.
The menu boasts a number of Jewish dishes, including Kőleves soup, matzo ball soup, cholent, and other hearty and delicious culinary creations. Their seasonal menu features farm-to-table produce adding freshness and innovation to the tradition. The pricing is quite affordable catering to locals who live and work in the area.
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 37-41, 1075 Hungary
Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Monday closed.
What are Budapest’s best restaurants for those looking for exceptional quality and creativity? In this part, we will investigate the best places to in Budapest with unique styles, innovative dishes, and numerous awards.
This rooftop restaurant located in the tallest building in Budapest offers a 360-degree overview of the entire city skyline. Blending sophisticated dining experience with innovative techniques and high-quality ingredients, Virtu will not let you down. With chef Levente Lendvai’s fish specialization, the restaurant features a wide selection of fish dishes along with more traditional Paloc soup and aged beef. The tasting menus are accompanied by the perfect wine pairing creating a cathartic experience for any food lover.
The interior is minimalist yet sophisticated highlighting the mesmerizing views of the city and directing your attention to the meal in front. However, despite all the glamor, the atmosphere is not stuffy and feels quite welcoming and warm while the prices are reasonable averaging around €50 per person.
Address: Budapest, MOL Campus, Dombóvári út 28-28.emelet, 1117 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11:30 am to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 am to midnight, Sunday closed.
Another fine dining gem is Fiktiv, an innovative restaurant intended to break stereotypes and push the envelope. Blurring the line between culinary and theatrical art, the spot delivers an immersive experience that challenges your perceptions about food. The menu doesn’t stay the same for long, offering different themes and references and telling a story.
The five- to seven-course tasting menus feature molecular gastronomy, inventive temperature contrasts, and multi-sensory presentations. The cocktail selection also evolves, providing experimental combinations and interesting finds. Even the fashionable interior always changes following the narrative of the renewed menu to complement the experience. The dining room is quite small in size facilitating an intimate atmosphere and allowing staff to pay a lot of attention to each guest.
Address: Budapest, Horánszky u. 27, 1085 Hungary
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 2 pm to 11 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Among the most unique culinary experiences is Könyvbar, an intimate restaurant that designs its menus around various books and stories. Every few weeks, the restaurant develops a new menu based on a different book creating one-of-a-kind dishes around various characters and settings derived from those narratives. For instance, the venue was in the past inspired by Gabrial Garcia Marquez, Haruki Murakami, Lemuel Gulliver, and many others.
This interesting concept allows chefs to create truly new and iconic creations making this a spot you will likely never forget. The pricing is relatively steep for Budapest but the concepts, designs, and meals are more than worth the expense.
Address: Budapest, Dob u. 45, 1074 Hungary
Opening Hours: Wednesday and Thursday from 4 pm to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 1 pm to 11 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Arguably one of the most popular and touristy restaurants in Budapest, Sir Lancelot is a must-visit for those looking for unique experiences. Designed like a medieval castle, the restaurant is adorned with knights in full armor, majestic stone walls, and long wooden tables reminiscent of old-timey taverns. If you’re traveling in a group, consider booing the Knight’s Table featuring numerous courses of meat dishes served with a theatrical flair.
The menu is impressively lengthy focusing on traditional meaty dishes along with fish, poultry, and a few vegetarian and gluten-free options. During the dinner, you can enjoy entertainment including medieval music, dancing, sword fighting, and numerous other performances. Despite the grandeur and the scale of the venue, the prices are relatively affordable, making the restaurant accessible to a broader public.
Address: Budapest, Podmaniczky u. 14, 1065 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday from 5 pm to midnight, Thursday to Sunday from 12 pm to midnight.
For more Hungarian classics prepared with exceptional quality and skill, check out this segment full of the best food in Budapest.
A Michelin-starred restaurant, Borkonyha translates to Wine Kitchen and offers an impressively large wine selection. Since 2014, this incredible eatery has been setting a high standard to the city’s fine dining scene. The menu features modern Hungarian dishes reimagined with French influences with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients. When here, don’t hesitate to try duck liver, mangalica pork, several luscious fish plates, and some seafood creations like scallops or shrimp.
Hungarian wines are a vital part of the experience complementing your dishes with delicious Hungarian reserves and vintages. The spot is quite sleek and simplistic yet elegant and sophisticated allowing guests to focus on food rather than decor.
Address: Budapest, Sas u 3, 1051 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 6 pm to midnight, Sunday closed.
Located in the gorgeous Castle Garden Bazaar, Felix exemplifies the peak of Budapest’s fine dining. Against the background of the Chain Bridge, the restaurant diversifies the Hungarian culinary tradition with global elements and innovative twists. The eatery relies on locally sourced ingredients from organic farms to create inventive menus and cocktails.
The tasting menu changes every few weeks, surprising guests with exquisite foie gras, delectable Hungarian aged meats, freshly prepared vegetables, and numerous other creations. Here, you can also sample international dishes like Chicken Kyiv, vegan eggplant steak, and fish chips, all with innovative and individual twists.
Address: Budapest, Ybl Miklós tér 9, 1013 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30 am to midnight.
Operating since 1990, Roma Etelbar has become synonymous with the Budapest food scene, attracting tourists and devoted locals. The menu focuses on home-style cooking with no ambition to break the rules or reinvent the wheel, and it’s perfect the way it is. Those looking for timeless recipes perfected to a tea will absolutely fall in love with this establishment.
From classic chicken schnitzel with a generous gallop of mashed potatoes to cottage cheese-filled dumplings served with light sour cream, the menu boasts familiar and beloved recipes that you simply cannot dislike. The interior adds to the vibe with its vintage radio, charming tablecloths, and retro pictures on the walls.
Address: Budapest, Csalogány u. 20, 1015 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11 am to 4 pm.
Another emblematic Budapest restaurant is Gundel, an iconic restaurant operating for the last over 130 years. Among the destination’s prominent guests were the Queen of England herself, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Angelina Jolie, among other celebrities. The interior screams old-world Europe luxury with crystal chandeliers, opulent design, and formal service.
But Gundel is not just about luxury and class: the restaurant always offers delectable high-quality dishes. Go for Gundel's famous goose livers, hot-smoked sweetwater catfish, and honey goat cheese bonbons to understand why this place became so iconic.
Address: Budapest, Gundel Károly út 4, 1146 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30 am to 10 pm.
Finally, explore the top restaurants in Budapest with the trendiest vibe, snazzy cocktails, and delectable cuisine.
This trendy spot is known as a farm-to-table restaurant with fresh ingredients delivered directly from a nearby farm outside the city. They create simple Hungarian recipes like potato stew, goulash, and farm omelets made with the freshest and tastiest produce. In fact, this charming location became so popular that it was recommended by the Michelin organizationa few months are the launch.
Don’t skip the cocktail menu full of craft beverages that have gained quite a following among the trendsetting crowd of locals. The interior is sleek and elegant not to distract from the dining experience, with exposed brick, wooden floors, and stylish seating.
Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 58-62, 1076 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 8 am to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 1 am.
Fleischer has retained the original shop name of the shirtmaker who operated the place for over 50 years before it was transformed into a restaurant. The interior is quite simplistic with tiles adorning the walls creating an elegant yet not busy visual. The focus is more on the food and experience rather than the interior as Fleischer positions itself as a modest and stylish bistro.
The menu boasts a wide range of cuisines and styles, from classics like bouillabaisse and duck breast to more inventive eggplant salads, beetroot and raspberry soup, and muhammara. The portions are quite average, not too generous but also not leaving you hungry, while prices are mid-range.
Address: Budapest, Nagymező u. 7, 1065 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11:30 pm.
Kiosk is the epitome of updated Hungarian food, trying to retain the original recipe yet elevating it to fit the contemporary food scene. The outdoor terrace offers incredible views of the Danube River, the Elizabeth Bridge, and the Gothic Church. The interior is also quite impressive with its high ceilings, industrial decor, and spacious comfy booths.
The main signature dishes range from quirky egg dumplings and steak tagliatelle to more traditional duck leg confit and wiener schnitzel. Kiosk’s menu strives to satisfy all tastes and preferences offering meat, fish, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. The cocktail selection will surprise you with interesting mixes like Unicum, Hungarian herbal liqueur or palinka, local fruit brandy.
Address: Budapest, Március 15. tér 4, 1056 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm to midnight.
Stand25 Bisztró is a stylish restaurant run by two Michelin-starred celebrity chefs offering an alternative and more casual dining experience without compromising quality and creativity. The idea is to take conventional Hungarian dishes and jazz them up with presentation and ingredients. The signature dish, in addition to the beloved goulash, is Brassoi-style pork tenderloin with potatoes which you cannot miss out on.
The design focuses on comfort rather than luxury, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their delicious meal. The prices are very affordable so even budget travelers can feast on incredible and innovative Hungarian dishes.
Address: Budapest, Attila út 10, 1013 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm and 5:30 pm to midnight, Sunday closed.
Budapest is overrun with incredibly innovative spots along with venues set to preserve the Hungarian culinary culture. If you enjoy exploring new tastes and textures, the city of Bupadest will not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch spot or an upscale critically acclaimed restaurant, this extraordinary city has got your back.
In this article, we will explore the top restaurants in Budapest, from traditional Hungarian delights and Jewish dishes to vegan meals and high-end dining. After exploring all the free things to do in Budapest to develop a strong appetite, head to one of the countless excellent eateries in town.
1. Exploring Budapest’s Culinary Diversity
In addition to exploring the city’s breathtaking historical center on free walking tours in Budapest, guests cannot miss the delightful array of incredible traditional Hungarian eateries. Take a look at the best restaurants in Budapest preserving the centuries-long culinary tradition.
Traditional Hungarian Delights
Rosenstein
You cannot visit Budapest in search of delicious Hungarian food and skip Rosenstein. One of the city’s most esteemed and beloved destinations, Rosenstein was launched by Tibor Rosenstein by now run by his son, Robert, preserving the family-operated tradition.
The menu features a range of classic Hungarian dishes with Jewish additions such as husleves, a hearty beef broth soup, cholent, a Jewish Sabbath stew, and numerous succulent goose dishes. For a more adventurous taste, try their tender beef tongue with horseradish, a staple of Hungarian cuisine.
The atmosphere at Rosenstein complements the homey food offerings with its charming wood paneling, cute tablecloths, and family pictures hung around the walls.
Address: Budapest, Mosonyi u. 3, 1087 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Sunday closed.
Gettó Gulyás
Another restaurant serving traditional Hungarian meals is Getto Gulyas, a central spot that offers tasty and hearty comfort food. The menu is brimming with such mouthwatering creations like Hungarian goulash, veal paprikash, pörkölt (meat stew), and lecso which is a Hungarian take on French ratatouille. The signature dish is turos csusza, pasta that blends soft cottage cheese with crispy bacon.
The dessert selection is also worth your time with its incredible cottage cheese dumplings and Hungarian sponge cake. The interior is a combination of rustic and industrial elements creating an unpretentious and welcoming ambiance that makes you want to stay longer.
Address: Budapest, Wesselényi utca 18, 1077 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11 pm.
International Influences
Essência
This Michelin-starred restaurant is run by a Portuguese-Hungarian man and wife duo bringing tastes of two very different cultures and creating something new and beautiful. Start with the octopus with chorizo and aioli or foie gras with a glass of one of the iconic Hungarian wines. For the main course, go for ribeye with cabbage or Atlantic cod with paprika, both of which will stun you with their effortless simplicity and deliciousness.
Desserts are mostly inspired by the Portuguese tradition mixed with Hungarian fruits and berries. The restaurant’s atmosphere is soft and elegant offering just a few tables in a beautiful setting. Although the pricing is on the higher end, true foodies will certainly appreciate the unique fusion of Hungary and Portugal.
Address: Budapest, Sas u 17, 1051 Hungary
Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm to 3 pm and 6 pm to 11 pm, Wednesday from 6 pm to 11 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
101 Bistro
Another international gem, 101 Bistro is for those looking for pan-Asian fusion with modern designs and innovative recipes. The main inspiration was Taiwan and China, although the restaurant features Malaysian, Japanese, and other Asian flavors. The concept is small plates, allowing you to sample a large variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
From delectable sushi and delicate dim sum to aroma-filled curries and succulent duck confit bao buns, the restaurant won’t disappoint anyone who enjoys an Asian influence. Pair your meal with a delicious cocktail or a simple beer and embark on an exciting flavor journey amid modern Asian design with contemporary elegance.
Address: Budapest, Széll Kálmán tér 5, 1024 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 3:30 pm and 5 pm to 10 pm, Sunday from 12 pm to 8 pm.
2. Dietary-Friendly Dining Options
Hungarian cuisine is famously meat and bread heavy making it harder for people with various food sensitivities to truly enjoy it. But no worries, we have prepared a list of the best restaurants in Budapest that serve gluten-free and vegan versions of familiar Hungarian dishes.
Vegetarian and Vegan Choices
The Garden Cafe
Known as a popular breakfast spot, The Garden Cafe invites elements of Turkish cuisine into a Hungarian flavor profile. Located right near Buda Castle, the restaurant is among the pioneers of vegan food in the meat-heavy capital. From classics like poached eggs and granola to Anatolian specialties like triple cheese Gözleme and menemen, the menu is truly perfect for anyone who enjoys a full breakfast.
The dinner offerings will also not disappoint, with spicy cigkofte, vegan dolma, and a delicious mezze plate. The restaurant is also full of plants and trees, paying tribute to its name and creating a countryside vibe in the middle of a busy city.
Address: 1088 Budapest Bródy Sándor utca 10.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 8 am to 4 pm and 6 pm to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 6 pm to 10 pm.
Kozmosz
Another rare vegan gem, Kozmosz features an impressive selection of plant-based comfort food made with vegan ingredients. The idea of the restaurant is to offer familiar European dishes with vegan twists like cheeseburger made with seitan patty and vegan cheese, fish and chips prepared with jackfruit, and meat-free stuffed cabbage. On weekends, you can sample all of these dishes and more at the all-you-can-eat buffet.
The cuisine is accompanied by a casual and homey interior with cosmos-themed design elements, mismatched furniture, and a cozy atmosphere. If you’re vegan or simply looking for a meat-free spot to grab a quick lunch, there’s no better place than Kozmosz.
Address: Budapest, Hunyadi tér 11, 1067 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30 1m to 9 pm.
Gluten-Free Options
Bohémtanya Gluténmentes Vendéglő
People suffering from celiac disease or other gluten sensitivities will have a hard time exploring Hungarian food. However, Bohémtanya Gluténmentes Vendéglő is here to help with its lengthy menu of traditional Hungarian meals reinvented without gluten. For example, you can safely indulge in goulash, breaded meat dishes, and desserts without worrying about a flare-up.
This family-run establishment offers a very intimate and cozy vibe with folk decor, wooden furniture, and comfortable seating. The generous portions will not leave you bankrupt while allowing you to experience the taste of Hungary without gluten and irritating crowds of tourists.
Address: Budapest, Paulay Ede u. 6, 1061 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11 pm.
Kata Pest
As the name suggests, Kata Pest is located in the Pest side of the town offering gluten-free dishes that don’t compromise conventional Hungarian flavors. Those seeking authentic celiac-safe culinary creations cannot skip this charming establishment. Their gluten-free offerings include langos, fried dough, cottage cheese pasta, chicken dumplings, and numerous pastries and desserts.
The atmosphere here is cozy and rather traditional featuring folk decor and some modern elements. Although the place is quite small, the owners use the space effectively and create an inviting ambiance. The price range is slightly elevated due to special gluten-free ingredients but remains reasonable and affordable, especially taking into account the generous portion size.
Address: Budapest, Hajós u. 27, 1065 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday to Friday from 12 pm to 10:30 pm, Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm.
3. Insider’s Guide: Local Favorites
In this part, we will explore Budapest restaurants beloved by local foodies. If you would like to immerse yourself in the Hungarian way of living, consider heading to one of the following best places to eat in Budapest.
Hidden Gems Loved by Locals
Szaletly
Away from all the hustle and noise of the Hungarian capital, you will find a local favorite, namely Szaletly. The food selection features contemporary Hungarian cuisine enriched by international influences and locally sourced seasonal ingredients like ponzu and chimichurri. Start your meal with the beef tartare or lecso, Hungarian ratatouille, and move on to the iconic venison stroganoff and chicken dumplings, both signature dishes at Szaletly.
If you’re in the mood for a dessert and have saved some space for it, indulge in cranberry-chocolate ganache tart or traditional flódni, you will not regret it! Meanwhile, the interior will encourage you to stay longer due to its intimate and unintimidating atmosphere with neutral tones and warm lighting. Be ready for rather higher prices that guarantee consistency and high-quality ingredients.
Address: Budapest, Stefánia út 93, 1146 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11 pm.
Gyros Kerkyra
Another hidden gem is Gyros Kerkyra offering authentic Greek flavors in the heart of Budapest. The menu boasts a wide array of Greek creations, starting with traditional gyros and expanding to souvlaki, Greek salad with feta, and honey-soaked baklava. The restaurant is a family-owned and run business, featuring authentic Greek recipes that the family brought from their homeland.
The eatery’s design is very reminiscent of modest tavernas from back home with national flag colors, cozy tables, and pictures of breathtaking Greek landscapes scattered across the space. In the summer, you can enjoy your delicious meal on the outdoor terrace so you don’t have to miss even a second of the pleasant Hungarian summer.
Address: Budapest, Petneházy u. 37-47, 1139 Hungary
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 11 am to 7 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Dining in the Jewish Quarter
Mazel Tov
Mazel Tov is a modern Middle Eastern restaurant in the heart of the historic Jewish Quarter. Housed inside a gorgeous historic building, the restaurant boasts a rich menu full of fresh and vibrant Jewish cuisine with Mediterranean twists. From classic hummus plates with pita, shawarma with tender chicken meat, and shakshuka to diverse mezze platters, this spot is the epicenter of Middle Eastern flavors.
Pair your delectable dinner with a trendy cocktail with pomegranate, sumac, and zaatar, all the typical ingredients found in Jewish and Middle Eastern cuisine and mixology. The restaurant brims with lush greenery and charming lights, also featuring a glass rooftop allowing you to stargaze while feasting on delicious cuisine.
Address: Budapest, Akácfa u. 47, 1073 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to midnight.
Kőleves Vendéglő
Another staple of Jewish-Hungarian cuisine, Kőleves Vendéglő is located near not one but two synagogues in the Jewish Quarter. Housed in a beautiful building that dates back to the 1800s, the restaurant is a favorite among locals who enjoy traditional cuisine in a modern setting. The name translates to stone soup referencing a folk story that describes how you can create something extraordinary from simple ingredients.
The menu boasts a number of Jewish dishes, including Kőleves soup, matzo ball soup, cholent, and other hearty and delicious culinary creations. Their seasonal menu features farm-to-table produce adding freshness and innovation to the tradition. The pricing is quite affordable catering to locals who live and work in the area.
Address: Budapest, Kazinczy u. 37-41, 1075 Hungary
Opening Hours: Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Monday closed.
4. A Taste of Excellence: Michelin-Starred Restaurants
What are Budapest’s best restaurants for those looking for exceptional quality and creativity? In this part, we will investigate the best places to in Budapest with unique styles, innovative dishes, and numerous awards.
Renowned Fine Dining Venues
Virtu
This rooftop restaurant located in the tallest building in Budapest offers a 360-degree overview of the entire city skyline. Blending sophisticated dining experience with innovative techniques and high-quality ingredients, Virtu will not let you down. With chef Levente Lendvai’s fish specialization, the restaurant features a wide selection of fish dishes along with more traditional Paloc soup and aged beef. The tasting menus are accompanied by the perfect wine pairing creating a cathartic experience for any food lover.
The interior is minimalist yet sophisticated highlighting the mesmerizing views of the city and directing your attention to the meal in front. However, despite all the glamor, the atmosphere is not stuffy and feels quite welcoming and warm while the prices are reasonable averaging around €50 per person.
Address: Budapest, MOL Campus, Dombóvári út 28-28.emelet, 1117 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Thursday from 11:30 am to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 am to midnight, Sunday closed.
Fiktív
Another fine dining gem is Fiktiv, an innovative restaurant intended to break stereotypes and push the envelope. Blurring the line between culinary and theatrical art, the spot delivers an immersive experience that challenges your perceptions about food. The menu doesn’t stay the same for long, offering different themes and references and telling a story.
The five- to seven-course tasting menus feature molecular gastronomy, inventive temperature contrasts, and multi-sensory presentations. The cocktail selection also evolves, providing experimental combinations and interesting finds. Even the fashionable interior always changes following the narrative of the renewed menu to complement the experience. The dining room is quite small in size facilitating an intimate atmosphere and allowing staff to pay a lot of attention to each guest.
Address: Budapest, Horánszky u. 27, 1085 Hungary
Opening Hours: Wednesday to Saturday from 2 pm to 11 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Unique Culinary Experiences
Könyvbar
Among the most unique culinary experiences is Könyvbar, an intimate restaurant that designs its menus around various books and stories. Every few weeks, the restaurant develops a new menu based on a different book creating one-of-a-kind dishes around various characters and settings derived from those narratives. For instance, the venue was in the past inspired by Gabrial Garcia Marquez, Haruki Murakami, Lemuel Gulliver, and many others.
This interesting concept allows chefs to create truly new and iconic creations making this a spot you will likely never forget. The pricing is relatively steep for Budapest but the concepts, designs, and meals are more than worth the expense.
Address: Budapest, Dob u. 45, 1074 Hungary
Opening Hours: Wednesday and Thursday from 4 pm to 11 pm, Friday and Saturday from 1 pm to 11 pm, Sunday to Tuesday closed.
Sir Lancelot
Arguably one of the most popular and touristy restaurants in Budapest, Sir Lancelot is a must-visit for those looking for unique experiences. Designed like a medieval castle, the restaurant is adorned with knights in full armor, majestic stone walls, and long wooden tables reminiscent of old-timey taverns. If you’re traveling in a group, consider booing the Knight’s Table featuring numerous courses of meat dishes served with a theatrical flair.
The menu is impressively lengthy focusing on traditional meaty dishes along with fish, poultry, and a few vegetarian and gluten-free options. During the dinner, you can enjoy entertainment including medieval music, dancing, sword fighting, and numerous other performances. Despite the grandeur and the scale of the venue, the prices are relatively affordable, making the restaurant accessible to a broader public.
Address: Budapest, Podmaniczky u. 14, 1065 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday from 5 pm to midnight, Thursday to Sunday from 12 pm to midnight.
5. The Best of the Best: Top-Ranked Restaurants
For more Hungarian classics prepared with exceptional quality and skill, check out this segment full of the best food in Budapest.
Critically Acclaimed Spots
Borkonyha
A Michelin-starred restaurant, Borkonyha translates to Wine Kitchen and offers an impressively large wine selection. Since 2014, this incredible eatery has been setting a high standard to the city’s fine dining scene. The menu features modern Hungarian dishes reimagined with French influences with a strong focus on seasonal ingredients. When here, don’t hesitate to try duck liver, mangalica pork, several luscious fish plates, and some seafood creations like scallops or shrimp.
Hungarian wines are a vital part of the experience complementing your dishes with delicious Hungarian reserves and vintages. The spot is quite sleek and simplistic yet elegant and sophisticated allowing guests to focus on food rather than decor.
Address: Budapest, Sas u 3, 1051 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 6 pm to midnight, Sunday closed.
Felix
Located in the gorgeous Castle Garden Bazaar, Felix exemplifies the peak of Budapest’s fine dining. Against the background of the Chain Bridge, the restaurant diversifies the Hungarian culinary tradition with global elements and innovative twists. The eatery relies on locally sourced ingredients from organic farms to create inventive menus and cocktails.
The tasting menu changes every few weeks, surprising guests with exquisite foie gras, delectable Hungarian aged meats, freshly prepared vegetables, and numerous other creations. Here, you can also sample international dishes like Chicken Kyiv, vegan eggplant steak, and fish chips, all with innovative and individual twists.
Address: Budapest, Ybl Miklós tér 9, 1013 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30 am to midnight.
Timeless Favorites
Róma Ételbár
Operating since 1990, Roma Etelbar has become synonymous with the Budapest food scene, attracting tourists and devoted locals. The menu focuses on home-style cooking with no ambition to break the rules or reinvent the wheel, and it’s perfect the way it is. Those looking for timeless recipes perfected to a tea will absolutely fall in love with this establishment.
From classic chicken schnitzel with a generous gallop of mashed potatoes to cottage cheese-filled dumplings served with light sour cream, the menu boasts familiar and beloved recipes that you simply cannot dislike. The interior adds to the vibe with its vintage radio, charming tablecloths, and retro pictures on the walls.
Address: Budapest, Csalogány u. 20, 1015 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11 am to 4 pm.
Gundel
Another emblematic Budapest restaurant is Gundel, an iconic restaurant operating for the last over 130 years. Among the destination’s prominent guests were the Queen of England herself, Arnold Schwarzenegger, and Angelina Jolie, among other celebrities. The interior screams old-world Europe luxury with crystal chandeliers, opulent design, and formal service.
But Gundel is not just about luxury and class: the restaurant always offers delectable high-quality dishes. Go for Gundel's famous goose livers, hot-smoked sweetwater catfish, and honey goat cheese bonbons to understand why this place became so iconic.
Address: Budapest, Gundel Károly út 4, 1146 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 11:30 am to 10 pm.
6. Trendy Dining Hotspots
Finally, explore the top restaurants in Budapest with the trendiest vibe, snazzy cocktails, and delectable cuisine.
Stylish Restaurants and Cool Venues
Tati
This trendy spot is known as a farm-to-table restaurant with fresh ingredients delivered directly from a nearby farm outside the city. They create simple Hungarian recipes like potato stew, goulash, and farm omelets made with the freshest and tastiest produce. In fact, this charming location became so popular that it was recommended by the Michelin organizationa few months are the launch.
Don’t skip the cocktail menu full of craft beverages that have gained quite a following among the trendsetting crowd of locals. The interior is sleek and elegant not to distract from the dining experience, with exposed brick, wooden floors, and stylish seating.
Address: Budapest, Dohány u. 58-62, 1076 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday from 8 am to midnight, Friday and Saturday from 8 am to 1 am.
Fleischer
Fleischer has retained the original shop name of the shirtmaker who operated the place for over 50 years before it was transformed into a restaurant. The interior is quite simplistic with tiles adorning the walls creating an elegant yet not busy visual. The focus is more on the food and experience rather than the interior as Fleischer positions itself as a modest and stylish bistro.
The menu boasts a wide range of cuisines and styles, from classics like bouillabaisse and duck breast to more inventive eggplant salads, beetroot and raspberry soup, and muhammara. The portions are quite average, not too generous but also not leaving you hungry, while prices are mid-range.
Address: Budapest, Nagymező u. 7, 1065 Hungary
Opening Hours: Every day from 12 pm to 11:30 pm.
Modern Interpretations of Hungarian Food
Kiosk
Kiosk is the epitome of updated Hungarian food, trying to retain the original recipe yet elevating it to fit the contemporary food scene. The outdoor terrace offers incredible views of the Danube River, the Elizabeth Bridge, and the Gothic Church. The interior is also quite impressive with its high ceilings, industrial decor, and spacious comfy booths.
The main signature dishes range from quirky egg dumplings and steak tagliatelle to more traditional duck leg confit and wiener schnitzel. Kiosk’s menu strives to satisfy all tastes and preferences offering meat, fish, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. The cocktail selection will surprise you with interesting mixes like Unicum, Hungarian herbal liqueur or palinka, local fruit brandy.
Address: Budapest, Március 15. tér 4, 1056 Hungary
Opening Hours: Sunday to Wednesday from 12 pm to 11 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 12 pm to midnight.
Stand25 Bisztró
Stand25 Bisztró is a stylish restaurant run by two Michelin-starred celebrity chefs offering an alternative and more casual dining experience without compromising quality and creativity. The idea is to take conventional Hungarian dishes and jazz them up with presentation and ingredients. The signature dish, in addition to the beloved goulash, is Brassoi-style pork tenderloin with potatoes which you cannot miss out on.
The design focuses on comfort rather than luxury, allowing guests to relax and enjoy their delicious meal. The prices are very affordable so even budget travelers can feast on incredible and innovative Hungarian dishes.
Address: Budapest, Attila út 10, 1013 Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 12 pm to 4 pm and 5:30 pm to midnight, Sunday closed.
Conclusion: Budapest’s Culinary Wonders Await
Budapest is overrun with incredibly innovative spots along with venues set to preserve the Hungarian culinary culture. If you enjoy exploring new tastes and textures, the city of Bupadest will not disappoint. Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch spot or an upscale critically acclaimed restaurant, this extraordinary city has got your back.
11
March,
2025
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