Trendsetting wine bars bring the full package: they create a pattern for success with distinguishable interiors, diverse wine selections, dishes fitted for sampling sprees, and knowledgable experts eager to enlighten you about reds and whites. Talking of enlightening, we''ve collected the cream of the crop, the very best wine bars in Budapest. Scan through our list, then choose as you will!
1/8
DROP SHOP
DROP SHOP, situated between Kossuth Lajos tér (Kossuth Lajos Square) and Jászai Mari tér (Jászai Mari Square), an easy stroll away from the Parliament, offers wines from all over the world, including Hungary. It would be an insult to call the experts working at Drop Shop assistants, since their knowledge about wines is truly amazing. Besides the heavenly reds and whites, quality snacks – such as tapas, hams, cheese, olives – are also available, and, to put the crown on the queen, a different chef cooks a mouth-watering daily menu every week.
2/8
L’Enoteca
L’Enoteca has a number of tricks up in its sleeve to attract wine-enthusiasts and those with a knack for Mediterranean dishes. On one hand, it has a wine selection of 300 bottles from all over the globe, on the other hand, it’s interior and vibe resemble an Italian wine tavern, and so do the dishes. If that’s still not enough to pull you in, L’Enoteca is located on the Danube Bank, and opens a panorama on the Citadella (The Citadel).
3/8
Doblo
Doblo, situated in Dob utca (Dob Street), in the never-resting heart of the ruin pub-heavy 7th district, is a sociable wine bar sprinkled with a homely atmosphere. The colorful wine selection is made up of handcrafted wines, bio wines, and bottles courtesy of wineries preferring unconventional flavors. Brick walls, vintage chandeliers, and intimate nooks make Doblo a perfect spot for a first date or for a chatty night out with pals.
4/8
Borkonyha
Borkonyha, located in dowtown Budapest, a stone’s throw away from Szent István Bazilika (St. Stephen’s Basilica), offers a wide selection of wines, quality food, and exceptional service. 48 types of wine are available for sampling from the 200-piece selection, which consists of spirits originating from the smallest vineyards and the most renowned vintners. The temperature-controlled wine shelf showcases the very best bottles available for purchase. The dishes are made from fresh ingredients, and the menu is written on a blackboard and changes every other week.
5/8
DiVino
DiVino, arguably the most popular wine bar in Budapest, is situated right next to Szent István Bazilika (St. Stephen's Basilica). An initiative of Junibor, the association of young Hungarian vintners, DiVino proved to be an instant success. The modern, trendy, youthful attitude is mostly reflected by the bar's interior: the minimalist pieces of furniture and the community-creating, mile-long table all represent Junibor's philosophy. The wine selection is based on the very best bottles of the 25 cellars listed as organizational members. The dishes might not be perfect, but tasty bits to accompany your glasses of wine are aplenty.
6/8
Borbíróság
Borbíróság, located right next to Központi Vásárcsarnok (Great Market Hall) and recently renovated Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge), offers a diverse wine assortment consisting of Hungarian wines, and a respectable amount of pálinkas. The menu is pillared by Hungarian dishes, while the traditional interior’s corner stones are bricks, a wooden parquet floor, and a slight industrial infusion.
7/8
Innio Restaurant & Bar (Closed)
Situated in Október 6. utca (October 6th Street),Innio’s location surely makes most venues green with envy. It’s so close to Szent István Bazilika (St. Stephen’s Basilica) that even a snail would reach it in minutes, and chic bars such as Trafiq or Ötkert are well within reach. The interior, which might remind you of a studio apartment, is characterized by giant light bulb-like lamps, beige brick walls, and leather sofas. Both the wine selection and the menu are exceptional, and will easily turn you into an Innio-fan.
8/8
Kadarka
Kadarka, situated in Király utca, within reaching distance of the 7th district’s many ruin pubs and Andrássy út (Andrássy Avenue), is one of the best wine bars of Budapest. Despite getting its name from a problematic grape type, you’ll have no trouble having a good time in a chilled, youthful vibe. The wine selection is pillared by Hungarian bottles you can sample or sip by the glass with fitting bits, and can even take home. The vivid interior, the melodies swirling down from the loft, and the huge panorama windows will surely urge you to neglect the latter option. Kadarka’s price to value ratio is outstanding, and all this without a hint of snobism.
