Tex-Mex has always been a bit of a grey area in Budapest. While burritos, quesadillas and tacos, of varying quality, have long been available, each kitchen decides whether rice is added to the beans in the burrito or how many types of stuffing should be in the quesadilla. It’s always been hard to assess what makes one place original and the other not. If we’re talking about the sauces, at Kaktusz (‘Cactus’) these are pretty much flawless.
Its tiny room has a total of three chairs with a counter – just enough space to sit next to your burrito but, of course, you can also order it to go. But it’s worth staying - the decor was created by owner György Nagy and his wife, the colourful walls, the Mexican folk patterns on the chairs, the pictures that make it look like you’re actually sitting in some Texan bar.
György also prepares the food, from the first slice to the last, and serves it, sometimes with a little help from his wife and kids. This one-man show makes the experience cosy and direct, beyond the meal itself.
The menu is not long, but it doesn’t have to be. First off, you have to decide whether to go for a burger or a Tex-Mex classic. The burgers are substantial, in two sizes (1,000 HUF/1,700 HUF), with guacamole and various sauces to accompany.
As for Tex-Mex, burritos and quesadillas also come in two sizes, with tacos a recent addition. You can choose between meat and meat-free versions, each packed with plenty of vegetables, sauces, sour cream and cheese – with complimentary guacamole.
Soups and chili con carne are also available, the cream of corn soup is creamy, warming, with cinnamon and cumin also jazzing up the chili, everything in flavoursome balance. As for a dessert, there are doughnuts with the promise of Mexican pancakes over yonder.
Kaktusz
District VIII. Somogy Béla utca 10
Open: Mon-Sat 10am-10pm
