The history of Budapest’s Hauer Confectionery begins in 1899, when Rezső Hauer founded this sweet shop near Blaha Square, which soon became a big favorite. The salon was a haunt for several literary figures that spent many hours working here. In addition to the legendary Hauer cremeschnitte and other tasty traditional treats, the coffee was also renowned. However, after the ’20s and ’30s, the confectionery’s story unfortunately took a sad turn; it went in and out of business, and never regained its original glory… until now, as Hauer once again reopened, awaiting everyone with delicious cakes.
When people started whispering about a possible reopening of Hauer, several generations felt a sweet nostalgia for the times when a tram ran on Rákóczi Avenue between Keleti Railway Station and Blaha Lujza Square. Pretty shop windows lined the whole street, and Hauer enticed everyone inside with delicious cremeschnitte, bonbons, and sophisticated elegance.
On August 20th – Hungary’s national holiday – a legendary locale, Rezső Hauer’s heritage confectionery, rose from its ashes with new owners and a more modern mindset. The most important task was to bring back the somewhat upper-middle-class atmosphere, which was executed by Péter Enywári, the interior designer of Rózsavölgyi Salon. The colors in Hauer evoke the cakes and desserts of the confectionery’s one-time sweet selection.
The unit occupies 1,300 square meters, which is so massive that it could easily be underexploited, but several event halls were established here, including a bigger room enhanced with a stage where we can imagine conferences or wedding receptions being held in the future. Even the second floor belongs to Hauer, but it is not entirely decided yet what its function will be in the future.
Considering the assortment, they place great focus on classic coffee culture. During our visit we tried the re-thought Hauer sweets that include just as many classic treats as more modern bites. Traditional Hungarian desserts stand side-by-side with cupcakes, mousses, and modern sweets behind the counter. To be honest, we found most of the treats, like the chocolate cake and the punch torte, a little too sweet, but Hauer forever has a special spot in the hearts of Hungarians, and will surely be appreciated for its venerable vibe amid the modern scene.
Hauer confectionery and coffeehouse
Address: Budapest 1088, Rákóczi út 47-49
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