Bölcső, a cradle of hop-fuelled gatherings in a bohemian setting, now offers beer, burgers and fun at a new Buda location. Outgrowing its former venue at the same locality, this timber-lined pub can now host 150 guests at any one time, plus has more taps for brews and an expanded selection of wines and main courses. This labour of love for founder Dani Kondorosi is just steps from Liberty Bridge and busy Bartók Béla Boulevard.

The iconic burgers, the kicking craft beer and the homely underground atmosphere did not change a bit at Bölcső, a coveted Budapest destination for late drinking. Just as at the former location, a flight of stairs leads down to the main space, this one twice the size of the old bar that stood nearby.

Dimmed lights, secluded nooks, soft armchairs and green walls create an intimate atmosphere, even if the interior feels a bit too spacious on a regular weekday night. The old team, the distinctive concept and most of the dishes remain the same.

And the Bölcső burgers are still delightful to munch on, especially with those home-made buns. The new menu also features main courses, such as chicken supreme with polenta or beef cheeks infused in beer.

A total of 20 different brews on tap, including local craft-beer specialities, go well with steak tartare and black-pudding strudel. Other than beer, guests are offered a range of 40 whiskies and a good selection of wines, many from the Badacsony region, north of Lake Balaton. As Kondorosi says, “Come down, take a seat and have fun”.