Downtown Budapest is dotted with trendy bars, but if you are after one that serves delicious Greek bites and cocktails, aim at Nomade, a fairly new and stylish spot near St Stephen's Basilica. And when we say Nomade is a stylish bar, we mean it's the winner of the 'Klasszis TopDesign bar category of 2023'.
As you step in, cast your eyes around, and you'll spot a myriad of intriguing details: a peacock feather, a tiger, a monkey, or vintage vinyl adorning the walls. Every fabric screams quality, the colours match perfectly - a testament to the meticulous planning that went into the design.
The atmosphere balances between upscale sophistication and homely warmth: the lights create an intimate space, yet there's a lively buzz in the air.
Sumptuous cocktails right from Greece
After you've finished appreciating (and Instagramming) the aesthetics, make your way to the bar and explore the drinks list. While a variety of premium bottles line the shelves, we say, just ask the bartender for recommendations. Coming from the exotic party island Mykonos, he is sure to know which cocktail suits you the best.
Pick a grapefruit-tequila-based Paloma, a timeless classic Negroni, or indulge in the refreshing Zen - a gin and ginger beer infusion, garnished with cucumber.
For an extravagant touch, order the Pornstar Martini, a true speciality at Nomade. While its recipe remains a top-secret, one sip reveals a hint of coconut milk that will instantly get you hooked. No judgment here, just keep those drinks coming!
Kebab, mussels and the rest
The menu, inspired by Greek flavours, speaks volumes. The selection might be brief, but it will still challenge you to pick, as you'll find such treats as generous dips, moules-frites, and lamb kebab on offer.
For starters, go with a delicious dip – whether it's the homemade beetroot hummus, Grandma's eggplant with yoghurt and grated tomato, or the spiced feta cream (or why not try all of them?). Each dip is served with Greek pita bread on the side.
When it comes to mains, we couldn't fault the moules frites – steamed mussels coming with ginger, lemongrass, and French fries. You can also pick the sole fish garnished with capers, olives, and tomatoes, or the Greek casserole Pastitsio. Or relish the oven-baked lamb, served with French fries and a squeeze of lemon.
No matter what you choose, please don't miss out on their banging kebab with confited baby potatoes and pickled onion – an absolute favourite of ours. The delicately seasoned meat melts in the mouth, while the potatoes are soft on the inside and crisp on the outside.
Save room for dessert as you can sample genuine delicacies, such as 'galaktoboureko', a Greek-styled custard baked in filo or 'Greek milk rice' (rice pudding).
All dishes are carefully prepared under the supervision of Nomade's culinary team.
Let's dance!
Nomade feeds you well and never leaves you thirsty, but they don't stop there. The place blends the best features of a restaurant, cocktail bar and party spot, creating a space where you can spend hours on end without a dull moment. Each weekend, a DJ sets the rhythm, inviting you to the dance floor to burn those kebab-induced calories. The vibes are pulsating yet intimate, giving you the sensation that you are at a house party. All that in the heart of the city, at the foot of the Basilica, with top-notch food and drinks, and no neighbours asking you to take it down a notch.
All in all, it's worth putting Nomade under your radar, whether you are on the hunt for a delicious lunch, a romantic dinner, a family event, drinks with friends, or a little party.
Contact details
Nomade by Gigi's
