We're always keeping an eye out for new places, and after taking stock of the first four months of the year, we're back with a fresh list of must-visit spots. Check out which restaurants, street food joints, and cafés should be on your radar when in Budapest.
Restaurants & bistros
The Széll Kálmán tér area has become a culinary hotspot. Rotisserie by Tamás Bereznay has revived the beloved 90s trend of grilled chicken with its whole or half birds, served with crispy fries, fresh salads, and rotating homemade sauces on the underground level of Fény utca Market.
Joining the neighbourhood is Zappi, a Neapolitan pizzeria offering classic pies, inventive salads, and a tempting cocktail and long drink menu.
Another standout is Giulia, a modern trattoria serving bold Italian flavours and a strong drinks list including small-size signature cocktails.
The city centre also boasts new dining options. In mid-May, Spanish celebrity chef Dani García dropped a foodie bombshell on the neighbourhood of buzzing Váci utca. Alelí Budapest popped up as a fab osteria giving you the real deal in Italian flavours, serving up treats that'll have you dreaming of Piemonte, Lombardia, or Sicily in no time. We're talking creamy burrata, lángos (Hungarian deep-fried flatbread) topped with six-month-cured coppa and crème, and carbonara pizza – Neapolitan style. Make sure to try these and save room for dessert – their profiterole is to die for.
Bilanx, near St Stephen's Basilica, offers a contemporary take on classic cuisine with a fine dining touch. Yet, ithas embraced a simpler approach, focusing on exceptional ingredients and innovative techniques.
Al Piatto specializes in Roman-style pizza and montanare – a crispy, fried pizza from Naples.
Marumba offers a vibrant fusion of traditional and contemporary Hungarian cuisine. This latest venture from the owners of Dobrumba and Pingrumba maintains the high service standards we've come to expect. While the muhammara and curry dishes didn't quite hit the mark, the irresistible combination of greasy bread and noodles was a standout.
For a more intimate dining experience, És Margarita on Mester utca offers a constantly changing menu and a curated organic wine list. Those seeking global cuisine will find plenty to explore.
Wang Mester Eastwin expands in Budapest's Chinatown on the original restaurant's offerings with a wider range of Chinese dishes. In addition to its Yunnan and Hunan specialities, the restaurant offers classic dishes from other regions of China. While adventurous diners can sample delicacies such as frog and caterpillar, there's also a wider selection of milder, more familiar Chinese fare.
Majorelle introduces authentic Moroccan flavours, blending tradition and modern touches near the Parliament, while for a taste of Afghanistan, Watan is the place to go.
The former cult favourite in the 11th district has reopened as Zsiráf Tranzit, serving soups, salads, and Neapolitan pizzas accompanied by delicious drinks.
The street food scene heats up
The smash burger craze continues to dominate the city's street food scene. Chop N Go on Király utca offers classic smash burgers alongside juicy pulled patty options.
Fini'Z, a recent addition to Ráday utca, has joined the fray with its own take on the smash burger, including an allergen-free option, while the pioneering Burger Project has expanded its reach with a new branch in the 13th district.
Even Budapest's southern part, Csepel, has caught the burger bug, with Kék Tányér serving up affordable and delicious smash burgers.
Monalizza offers a minimalist yet professional dining experience, serving excellent Neapolitan pizza.
Indigo Express brings authentic Indian flavours to the fore, for those who'd like to sample some curry or dosha, alongside some more international offerings, close to Nyugati railway station.
TAKO, a dedicated taco joint, provides a perfect pre-party snack, complemented by a well-curated vermouth selection in one of the city's best hidden passages near the Hungarian National Museum.
For a taste of summer, head to Kopaszikert for smash burgers, Pilsner Urquell on tap, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Baker shop, café, pastry shop
The city's café scene continues to evolve, with several exciting new openings. The Garden Café, nestled in the Bródy House courtyard, offers a delightful all-day menu with a Turkish twist. For a smaller, more intimate atmosphere, Falatka in Buda serves exceptional coffee and pastries.
While not a traditional café, Portobello Cheese & Deli is a must-visit for cheese and gourmet food lovers. Their carefully curated selection of cheeses, deli items, and baked goods is a foodie's paradise.
(Cover photo: Forgács Zsuzsi - We Love Budapest)
