Hey Macarena! New Latin bar opens in Budapest

The name of the Peruvian chef Franklin Miranda Yllescas may be one familiar to those in Budapest who love South-American cuisine, as he opened his first restaurant here last winter. His new locale, the Macarena Bar, has a slightly different approach, putting the party into the mix while not skimping on the delicious snacks. Between the tapas and the cocktails, we sampled some of the atmosphere.

Bringing the spirit of Macarena to Budapest, and following the success of his Peruvian restaurant, Pisco, chef Franklin Miranda Yllescas wanted to open a venue that could be a meeting place for Latin Americans in Budapest.

Photo: Medgyesi Milán - We Love Budapest

The essence of the bar concept is that every country is represented by a cocktail and a tapas dish. These usually follow the more familiar, traditional approach, but are delicious nonetheless, and obviously it’s always good to sample something served by an authentic chef.

The Macarena décor also reflects the diversity of South America. The room is organised around a large bar counter, decorated with an aquarium, the photos on the walls evoking the various countries in the region.

As well as look and cuisine, salsa, tango and bachata evenings are expected soon, and most of the staff and bartenders are Latin American. Who wouldn’t want to party with Brazilians, Mexicans and Peruvians?

Starting with Mexico, we first tasted the tacos (HUF 1,890), the flavours fresh, the marinated pork succulent. Be prepared for ample coriander. A piña colada (HUF 1,800) provided a zingy accompaniment.

We also tried French-fry style fried yucca bites (HUF 1,790), with a pleasant, spicy sauce, then the filling papas rellenas de Perú (HUF 1,450). A dip also comes with these fried potato balls stuffed with beef, a Piscola cocktail (HUF 1,700), further evoking Peru.

Given the style and prices at Macarena, it should appeal to a wider audience, providing a touch of Latin glamour to a location on the fringes of Budapest’s nightlife quarter.