We've been fans of the Margit Quarter for a while now – and with good reason. While it might not be the first place you check out when landing in Budapest, this vibrant neighbourhood absolutely deserves a spot on your list. It’s at the heart of a revitalisation project that kicked off in 2020, all about creating a modern, community-focused space with the help of local cultural and civil groups. And the area’s truly blossoming: new spots keep popping up, from cosy cafés and top-notch pizzerias to restaurants worth bookmarking. We've rounded up some of our favourite spots in a previous article – check it out here.
Culture over parties
With all the buzz and new openings, there’s a new worry creeping in: parties, rubbish, and rowdy crowds taking over after dark. Mayor Gergely Őrsi told 444 that he hopes the Margit Quarter – revitalised in part through discounted leases on long-vacant municipal spaces – will stay true to its cultural roots. To help steer things that way, he proposed a mandatory 11 pm closing time for bars and clubs in the area.
No curfew – for now
At the moment, there are no restrictions on how late venues in the Margit Quarter can stay open. The new proposal wouldn't be an outright ban on late-night hours, but staying open past 11 pm would only be allowed under strict conditions.
Room for makers, not just mixers
As 444 reports, just 4 of the 35 newly leased spaces in the area have licenses to serve alcohol, and Mayor Őrsi would like to keep it that way. 'We've got enough bars as it is,' he said, noting that alongside cultural venues, the district hopes to attract more artisans and independent retailers to help shape the neighbourhood's character.
(Cover photo: Kata Major – We Love Budapest)
