Transparent bubbles now crown the rooftop of Budapest’s Hotel President in the city centre. A trio of igloos on the Intermezzo Roof Terrace provides scenic shelter for diners and drinkers after sundown this spring. Booking recommended.
Wrapped in warm blankets, guests enjoy Hungarian-style hors d'oeuvre and sip sparkling wine at Hotel President, whose rooftop bar has recently been transformed from a panoramic skating rink to an Eskimo-style lounge zone. Also open for non-hotel residents, this pop-up bubble bar follows the international trend for igloo-shaped hostelries set up across drinking destinations from London to Paris – Budapest included.
This increasingly popular phenomenon is elevated to new heights when it comes with pretty city views, a feature that is the main appeal for terrace drinkers at the President.
The three igloos, each around the size of the space occupied by a studio apartment, are enhanced with a colourful design within. Vibrant lampions, cushions, blankets and plants compensate for the lower temperature that prevails on colder nights inside the bubbles. Each igloo bears a particular theme: one resembles a standing-only bar with high tables, the other two a bistro and a lounge with comfy chairs.
A menu geared towards bar food contains treats such as a cheese selection, grilled mini sausages and club sandwiches. For dessert, vanilla cream and pecan chocolate cake features – and nothing costs more than 2,000 forints.
To pair with your dish, you can go for a fröccs spritzer, sparkling wine or a glass of strawberry cordial. The igloos are open daily from 5pm and 9pm and are accessible after registering at the hotel reception. You can make a reservation by e-mail or phone.
