Everyone know the capital of Hungary for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture. But it’s also a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of dining options to suit any taste and budget. I want to guide you into the best dining in Budapest, to help you to live a unique experience. There are delicious dishes to taste and cool restaurants. Fine dining in the city is a real keyword. You should try.
Well, here I want to give a list of the best restaurants, but as well of the musts of local cuisine. There are some recipes that you shouldn’t miss. Especially, if you really want to know the culture and explore all the sides of the country. Food is an important part of the travel. It is not only about getting energy, but go deep into tradition. Some chefs propose even innovation, always starting from the old recipes.
Don’t be afraid to spend too much, prices are convenient. Anyway, you can get tips on how to save money on traveling, to keep the budget safe.
Best dining in Budapest: dishes
Before to see where to go to eat, it is good to know what to eat. The city has rich culinary traditions and delicious cuisine. Here are some must-try dishes to sample during your visit.
- Goulash: this hearty beef soup is the national dish of Hungary and a staple in traditional Hungarian cuisine. They make it with tender chunks of beef, onions, potatoes, and paprika, which gives it its signature reddish-orange color and slightly spicy flavor.
- Langos: this savory fried dough is a popular street food in Hungary. They make it with dough that’s fried until crispy. Then they top with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese.
- Chimney cake (Kurtoskalacs): they make this sweet pastry wrapping dough around a cone-shaped spit and baking it over an open flame. The result is a crispy and caramelized exterior with a soft, doughy interior. Typically, they dust it with cinnamon or sugar.
- Dobos torte: they make up this classic Hungarian dessert of layers of sponge cake and chocolate buttercream, topped with a caramel layer. The name comes from its inventor, József Dobos, he did it in the late 1800s.
- Chicken paprikash: they make this creamy and flavorful dish with chicken cooked in a rich paprika sauce, sour cream, and onions. Typically, they serve it with nokedli, a small dumpling-like pasta.
- Strudel: this sweet pastry is a classic dessert in Hungarian cuisine. It’s made with layers of paper-thin pastry filled with a sweet filling, usually apple, cherry, or cheese.
- Töltött káposzta (stuffed cabbage): this traditional Hungarian dish is made by stuffing cabbage leaves with a mixture of ground pork, rice, and paprika. The rolls are then simmered in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful.
Best dining in Budapest: restaurants
From traditional Hungarian cuisine to international flavors, here are some of the best dining experiences in Budapest.
- Gundel Restaurant: it is a landmark restaurant in Budapest, known for its traditional Hungarian cuisine and elegant atmosphere. The restaurant has been around for over a century and offers a menu featuring dishes like goulash soup, chicken paprikash, and strudels. It’s also famous for its signature dessert, Gundel pancakes. Check it out.
- Szimpla Kert: it is a ruin pub in Budapest’s Jewish Quarter that offers a unique dining and drinking experience. The eclectic decor, made up of vintage furniture and funky art, creates a relaxed and bohemian atmosphere. The menu features traditional Hungarian dishes like sausages and cheese plates, as well as international cuisine like tacos and burgers. Check it out.
- Cafe Gerbeaud: it is a historic cafe in Budapest that dates back to 1858. It’s known for its elegant decor, delicious pastries, and traditional Hungarian cuisine. The cafe is a popular spot for coffee, cake, and conversation, and it offers a full menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. Check it out.
- Borkonyha Winekitchen: it is a Michelin-starred restaurant in Budapest that offers contemporary Hungarian cuisine with a focus on wine pairings. The menu changes seasonally, but you can expect dishes like duck liver terrine, venison stew, and roasted quail. The restaurant also offers a wine bar with an extensive selection of Hungarian and international wines. Check it out.
- Street Food Karavan: it is a collection of food trucks and stalls located in Budapest’s downtown area. It offers a variety of international cuisine, including burgers, falafel, tacos, and sushi. It’s a great spot to grab a quick and affordable meal on the go. Check it out.
Conclusions
Budapest has something to offer every food lover, from elegant fine dining to casual street food. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Hungarian cuisine or international flavors, you’re sure to find a dining experience to remember in this beautiful and vibrant city. So, Enjoy your meal!