In Budapest's mesmerising Castle District, Fekete Holló is tucked away enough from the buzz of tourists to feel peaceful, but it's still close enough to all the main sights so that you don't have to go far for a memorable meal. Located under Országház utca 10, it offers a charming terrace view of the ornate tower of Matthias Church – perfect for relaxing with a glass of wine or a refreshing Hungarian wine spritzer.
Where time stands still – in a good way
Fekete Holló isn't just a restaurant but a true Budapest institution. Originally opened in the 1930s, it's been a favourite local hangout since the 1960s when it reopened under its now-famous name. Over the past decades, it's welcomed students, writers, artists and curious food lovers looking for something real and nostalgic. The décor has been refreshed in 2023, and modern kitchen technologies have been added in, but the atmosphere remains warm and homely, just like a visit to a Hungarian grandmother's dining room.
What’s on the menu? Classic, homely Hungarian dishes
At Fekete Holló, red-and-white checkered tablecloths set the mood, and the menu features traditional, homely and time-tested Hungarian favourites. No fusion, no sushi, no burgers and no recipes tailored to tourists' needs. Just old-school Hungarian dishes exactly the way locals love them. So, if you're interested in real Hungarian cuisine, Fekete Holló is the place to go.
One of the superstars of the menu is pörkölt, a traditional Hungarian stew, similar to goulash but thicker and more intensely spiced. At Fekete Holló, the beef version comes with toasted egg barley (called tarhonya) and pairs perfectly with a side of pickles or creamy cucumber salad.
You can also try főzelék, a creamy vegetable roux, often made of potatoes or spinach, which Hungarians eat as a main course. It’s served with your choice of topping, like tasty meatballs or sunny-side-up eggs. Simple, nostalgic, surprisingly satisfying and suitable for vegetarians, too.
Other classics include Hortobágy-style stuffed meaty pancakes, juicy pork chops with fries and crispy onions, meat, cheese or liver schnitzels, fish paprikash and grilled goat cheese salad for lighter cravings. If you're in the mood to share, go for the "Hungarian Platter" or the restaurant's namesake Fekete Holló platter – ideal for sampling a little bit of everything.
Drinks, desserts and a shot of pálinka
You’ll also find a lovely drinks selection: local wines, Hungarian beers, classic cocktails and homemade lemonades. Want to drink like a local? Order a fröccs, a wine spritzer that comes in many variations, from a light "small spritz" (kisfröccs) to a hefty "maflás" for the brave drinkers. And don’t leave without trying a shot of pálinka, Hungary’s famous fruit brandy. The apricot and plum versions from Gyula are especially tasty.
For dessert, you can't go wrong with grandma’s pancakes, dusted with powdered sugar and filled with sweet cottage cheese or jam, just like a Hungarian family would have it for lunch on Sundays. Alternatively, try somlói galuska (a sponge cake trifle with chocolate sauce and whipped cream), or a scoop of Zuki artisan ice cream, best enjoyed with a strong coffee on the side.
A taste of old Budapest
Fekete Holló is more than just a restaurant – it’s a slice of Hungarian culinary history, and the perfect place to discover authentic Hungarian flavours. Locals love it, and tourists who stumble upon it are always glad they did. And why the name "Black Raven"? It pays tribute to King Matthias, whose symbol was a raven – a motif still visible on the old cast-iron sign above the door. Back in the 70's, local students gave the restaurant a cheeky nickname, which is a testament to locals' long-standing affection for Fekete Holló.
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