The café’s host and namesake
Zuzu opened its doors this spring and, as owner Liset explains, she wanted to create a place that counterbalances the rush and the frequent chaos of everyday life. A spot where people can slow down, find calm, and enjoy kind words and friendly smiles alongside specialty coffee and truly tasty food. She has certainly succeeded – the warmth and openness of Zuzu instantly draws guests in, and it’s hard to get up and return to the daily grind once you’ve settled in here.
Of course, there’s something else that makes you want to linger – provided you’re a dog lover.
Zuzu has such a high cuteness factor that it could soften even the toughest heart – even those not usually fond of dogs.
The café’s namesake is a miniature dachshund called Zuzu, Liset’s dog, who used to accompany her to her previous workplace as well. Thanks to this, the little sausage dog is highly socialised – he loves everyone and is friendly with people and dogs alike. When he’s not busy wrestling one of his toys by the counter, he can be found patrolling between the tables, trotting around happily, and gladly asking for (and receiving) a few pats.
Zuzu isn’t alone, though – he has a partner, a love, called Málna, a little female dachshund who doesn’t always spend her days at the café. The reason is that, although she’s a calm dog too, unlike Zuzu she’s a little more reserved – an introverted type who isn’t always comfortable with the constant buzz and stream of new faces. Still, Málna isn’t grumpy or unfriendly at all – she’s just as cuddle-worthy and utterly adorable as her partner.
What makes it worth a visit
Of course – and without underestimating the charm of two adorable dachshunds – at any decent café it takes more than cute dogs to keep people coming back. Hospitality is another box that Zuzu Café & Bakery ticks with ease: owner Liset not only greets everyone with a smile, but always has a kind word or two, and she’s just as happy to be busy behind the counter. The team working alongside her share the same warmth and openness. Being here is truly refreshing – especially as the interior design radiates a sense of homeliness. Even the mugs have a personal touch: they were made by the parents of one of Liset’s friends, and no two are alike.
Zuzu quickly built up a loyal clientele from locals living and working in the area, and thanks to its location not far from Heroes’ Square and City Park, tourists also often discover it for themselves. The café is open every day – weekdays from 7 am to 7 pm, Saturdays from 8 am to 6 pm and Sundays from 8 am to 4 pm – with mornings proving the busiest, though guests still come and go throughout the day. There are already plenty of regulars, and it’s clear that Zuzu has fast become a popular spot in the neighbourhood, though there’s always room to grow. Our advice: give Zuzu a try at least once – warmly recommended.
Since mornings are the busiest time,
the focus at Zuzu is mainly on breakfast and brunch
Of course, a pastry, sandwich or toast works just as well for lunch – and certainly for an afternoon snack. Everything is made from quality ingredients, mostly in-house, and to say the food is delicious would be an understatement – the flavours are simply wonderful. I even slowed down while eating the French toast, just to savour every single bite. There are also unique dishes on offer at Zuzu, including one you won’t easily find at every brunch spot or bistro. That’s because Liset has introduced a family recipe with a very distinctive flavour. The cauliflower cream, for example, completely won me over – whenever I’m in the area, I know I’ll be ordering it.
Prices at Zuzu are perfectly reasonable. Specialty coffees range from HUF 790 to 1,390 – starting with an espresso at the lower end, through to a cortado, and up to a latte at the top. Popular favourites are also on the menu, such as matcha latte ( HUF 1,690), chai latte ( HUF 1,390) and matcha tonic ( HUF 1,390), not to mention iced coffee ( HUF 1,590). And if you’re looking for a boost beyond coffee or tea, there are vitamin-packed options too: fresh fruit juices (2dl) for HUF 1,390 and refreshing lemonades priced between HUF 1,290 and HUF 1,690.
Sandwiches are all priced at HUF 2,390, while brunch dishes – mainly toasts and omelettes – range between HUF 3,290 and 3,690. Portions are generous and filling, thanks to the care put into their preparation and the quality of the ingredients used. And to round off the story by returning to the four-legged host and the dogs who come in with their owners – it’s not only us who can enjoy a good meal here. If you wish, your pup won’t go without a little treat either. Snacks are waiting on the counter, because, as we all know, every good dog deserves a reward or two.
CONTACT DETAILS
Zuzu cafe & bakery
(Cover photo: Balázs Ladóczk - We Love Budapest)
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