Since their complete modernisation, the Corvin Cinema and surrounding mall have become a haven for new-wave cafés and health-conscious eateries. Now, at the foot of the cinema building, another destination of quality has opened, Uptown Budapest, offering small-batch beers and Hungarian wines, complemented by aperitivi. Many might remember the old-school café that once stood here, a retro spot with a wood-surround TV where pre-film toasties were the norm. Now that’s all changed – and in its place is lovely breakfast/brunch venue, with contemporary coffee choices and fresh ideas.
All has been put together by the devoted Annamari, who moved into the world of gastronomy as a hobby. The end result is a cult venue in District VIII. The coffee comes from Slovak roasters, a new-wave variety, your cappuccino or flat white sold at a moderate price. Classic breakfast drinks are all available: tea, and freshly squeezed or small-batch organic juices.
Breakfast/brunch run up to four o’clock, later than at many places, and feature French pastries, buttery or crunchy, with allergy-friendly dishes brought to the fore. You’ll find croques madames (1,890 HUF), bowls of superfood (acai-chia, 1,790 HUF) and deluxe duck-liver sandwiches (1,890 HUF). Towards the evening, wine and beer come into play: you can order a First IPA or a Laposa Olaszriesling alongside dips or a cheese platter (2,890 HUF).
Although not a girly place per se, the male-female ratio is clearly tipped in favour of the latter, perhaps reflected in the availability of acai and quinoa. Regardless of gender, though, anyone after a healthy brunch can now find it at Corvin Cinema – children and dogs welcome.
Uptown Budapest District VIII, Corvin köz 1
Open: Daily 8am-8pm
