Alaplé Bar
Dietician Éva Király swears by a hearty soup-base juice as a better morning pick-me-up than coffee. Well, you can test her theory at Alaplé Bar, available in two market halls – Fény utca and Fehérvári út. Unlike traditional broth, Éva's base juice is made from the less glamorous parts of the animal, yet even without special seasoning, it's delicious in itself. Not to mention that it's good for your health. It's one of those slow-cooked staples that we'd all love to have in our kitchens, but rarely have the time to make. Here, you can stock up on fresh stock, or simply grab a cup to go.
Details here.
Bors Gasztrobár
Bors GasztroBár has been shaking up Budapest's street food scene since 2012 – and is still one of the city's most exciting foodie gems right in the party district. This tiny street food spot is famous for unexpectedly bold soups and banging grilled sandwiches. But now let's focus on the former. Here, nothing is off-limits: expect big, unapologetic flavours with creative twists. One day, you might find a layered potato soup, the next, a Pomodoro with a punch. And just when you think you've seen it all? Boom – Milka chocolate soup. And they're also crazy good.
Details here.
Hokedli
Pottage and soup are staples in Hungary, and this old-school eatery on Nagymező utca serves up the best of both. For over a decade, Hokedli has been cooking hearty, homely flavours – just like a Hungarian family dinner. The menu changes daily, and vegetarians won't miss out either – if you spot the lentil vegetable soup, don't think twice. Most dishes are for takeaway, and yes, you can even sip your soup straight from a cup.
Details here.
Húsleves és Társai
László Varga, the founder of Húsleves és Társai, is a self-proclaimed soup fanatic. It all started with him cooking up massive batches of broth in winter, cooling them on the terrace, and loving the results. Naturally, he decided to share his passion with the people of Budapest's 6th district. While there's no dine-in option, you can take the goods home in proper jars – sustainably, with a deposit. Expect rich, hearty flavours, made with love.
Details here.
Ramenka
Ramen is Japan's answer to pho – rich, indulgent, and loaded with slurp-worthy noodles and toppings of your choice. Luckily, you don't need to book a flight to get your fix. Head to Ramenka on Nagymező utca, where the vibe is minimalist, the portions are generous, and the broth is pure comfort. And if you're on the move? Grab it to go.
Details here.
Tökmag Vegan Street Food
Újlipótváros is packed with cool foodie spots, but Tökmag stands out with its all-vegan concept and spot-on soups and sandwiches. Made from fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients, it's proof that plant-based eats can win over anyone – not just vegans. Their velvety, flavour-packed cream soups change daily and will warm you up on the chilliest of days. Trust us on this one.
Details here.
Vietnámigulyás.hu
Vietnámigulyás – literally 'Vietnamese Goulash' – is more than just a name. It's a nod to the bold fusion at this hip Buda eatery, where Asian, Basque, and Hungarian flavours collide in the best way possible. Tucked away on Frankel Leó út, this soup house is the brainchild of renowned chef Krisztián Huszár, who knows his way around a pot. If you try just one thing, make it the namesake Vietnamese goulash – it only gets better with every sip.
Details here.
(Cover photo: Vietnámigulyás.hu, Gábor Szabó - We Love Budapest)
