Jamie Oliver's Italian Budapest, the first of its kind in Central Europe, is located in the iconic Buda Castle, just steps away from Fisherman's Bastion and Matthias Church. The restaurant's name is a promise of authentic Italian cuisine, elevated by Jamie Oliver's signature flair, creating a cool, casual atmosphere.
Renowned for his extensive knowledge of Italian food, gained through countless cookbooks and TV shows exploring the country, British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver brought his expertise to Budapest a couple of years ago, and his restaurant is here to stay. Located in the stunning Buda Castle district, it boasts a relaxed Italian bistro ambience and a terrace offering breathtaking panoramic views of Matthias Church. Just minutes away, the enchanting Tóth Árpád Promenade is a delightful spot to visit year-round.
The best of Italy on a wooden plate
A highlight of our visit was the Cured Meat Plank, a two-person sharing platter, a staple of Jamie Oliver restaurants. The tantalising aroma of San Daniele prosciutto, Tuscan fennel salami, pistachio mortadella, cheeses, and locally made rosemary and garlic focaccia filled the air.
This generous platter is perfect for a casual summer lunch. We particularly loved Jamie's Zucchine fritti, a crispy exterior concealing a creamy centre, topped with Parmesan.
The locally baked focaccia was the ideal accompaniment to the creamy olive and caper spread. The aubergine cream was deliciously spread on thin Carta di musica crackers, a Sardinian shepherd's favourite known for its long-lasting freshness.
Other standout summer dishes include the freshly fried prawn with chilli and the classic Caprese salad, featuring juicy tomatoes, soft buffalo mozzarella, basil pesto, and aged balsamic vinegar.
Fresh pasta every day
Fresh pasta is made daily on-site, using high-quality Italian flour, eggs, and water. The menu features seasonal pasta varieties. Currently, penne takes centre stage, transformed into a creamy carbonara with ricotta, black pepper sauce, crispy pancetta, and aged Parmesan. Vegetarians can enjoy a version topped with Sicilian pesto, basil sauce, Parmesan, and stracciatella cheese.
We opted for Sicilian prawn linguine. The Genoa-style fresh pasta, cooked al dente in just five minutes, was topped with grilled king prawns, sun-dried tomatoes, and white wine sauce, transporting us to an Italian seaside restaurant.
The pasta menu also boasts gnocchi, tagliatelle, lasagne, and Jamie's spaghetti, served with a simple yet delicious basil and tomato sauce, finished with Parmesan. Pizza lovers are well-catered for too, with vegetarian options like the Julietta– a favourite of Jamie Oliver's wife, Jools. Topped with tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, slow-roasted tomatoes, Parmesan, and fresh basil, its crispy exterior and soft, flavourful base make it a standout. The crust boasts a satisfyingly crisp exterior and a thinner, more pliable base, perfect for showcasing the high-quality toppings. It's a pizza that proves less can definitely be more.
Beyond pasta and pizza, the menu offers risotto, homemade burgers, and a rotating selection of chef's specials. The ever-popular Ji Burger features a juicy beef patty, crispy pancetta, balsamic onions, aged cheddar, tomato, and Jamie Oliver's signature burger sauce. Choose from roast potatoes, sweet potato fries, or onion rings to complete your meal.
Coffee and dessert
For a hot summer's day, there's nothing quite like an Affogato to finish your meal. Rich vanilla gelato is dramatically topped with an espresso shot, then elevated with marshmallows, hazelnut praline, and a chocolate cone. It's a dessert that packs a caffeine punch.
The tiramisù is another standout, boasting a homemade, rustic charm that belies its incredible flavour.
Italian liqueurs, wines, and lemonades
Jamie Oliver's Italian Budapest is also a lively bar, offering a selection of classic Italian liqueurs and vermouths. Complement your meal with an Italian or Hungarian wine, or perhaps a craft Spíler beer. A variety of refreshing lemonades, from mango to green apple, are also available.
The restaurant caters to the whole family. A dedicated kids' menu features pizza, spaghetti, and chicken skewers. Throughout August, kids under twelve eat free with the purchase of an adult main course. And, for those with furry friends, the restaurant is dog-friendly.
With its spacious terrace offering stunning views, open until the end of September, and its cosy interior welcoming guests year-round, Jamie Oliver's Italian Budapest is a destination for everyone.
(Cover photo: Bielik István)
Gastro
Jamie Oliver's Italian Budapest
Central Europe’s first Jamie’s Italian is located in the historic Castle District of Budapest.
