1/7
Szociális Helyiség
Decorated with colorful blankets, pillows, and upturned umbrellas, the charming enclosed patio of this hole-in-the-wall watering hole is a cold-weather hotspot for scrumptious burgers and long conversations, all found amid the middle of central Pest’s prime party zone. Frequent drink specials and high-quality inexpensive grilled gastronomy make this an ideal place for a nicotine-spiced cheap date.
Where: Budapest 1075, Kazinczy Street 52/c
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2/7
UdvarROM
The covered courtyard of this no-frills ruin pub is a fine destination for smokers year-round, but during winter it becomes especially appealing – a central row of radiators keeps the entire quadrangle comfy no matter what the weather’s like outside. After filling an ashtray over a few low-priced drinks, get some pub-sports exercise in the game rooms with ping-pong, pool, and foosball facilities.
Where: Budapest 1072, Klauzál Street 21.
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3/7
Presszó 53
This 24-hour dive bar draws an eclectic clientele – here we are equally likely to drink with teenagers or pensioners, and in winter both demographics flock inside of the neon-lit tented terrace out front where conditions are perpetually cloudy. The last time we visited, it wasn’t clear if the external heaters were working or not, but the regulars were apparently drunk enough that it didn’t matter.
Where: Budapest 1073, Erzsébet Boulvard 53.
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4/7
Majorka
Even when the surrounding branches are bare, a summery spirit always survives at this serene open-air scene near Buda’s forested Városmajor Park. In addition to a tented non-smoking area, the wintertime attractions here include a separate three-walled space for chatting puffers warmed by outdoor heaters, where savory Hungarian specialties and fine wines are served in the cool atmosphere.
5/7
Kakas Presszó
Most of the time it can be said that there’s not much to recommend about this busy bar beyond its central Deák Square location, the cheap drinks served here, and the fact that it’s open 24-7… but when icy winds blow through downtown’s boulevards, the tented sidewalk seating becomes a cherished shelter for stopping in for a quick smoke and a bracer while watching passersby slip and slide outside.
6/7
Ellátó Kert (Closed)
An underground hideout tucked amidst the bustling backdrop of Kazinczy Street, this semi-countercultural congregating point features a relatively gigantic tented terrace just beyond the bar’s front entrance, where friends escape the cold to catch up while chain-smoking. Hanging out here before the décor of Mexican motifs painted on the walls, we get the impression that summer vacation never ended.
7/7
Bobek
Walk past the wooden bar and through the back door of this pleasant pub to discover a wintertime Garden of Eden for tobacco aficionados, where a solid roof, powerful heaters, and completely enclosed walls firmly impart an indoor feeling; were it not for the gravel underfoot, we’d never realize that we’re “outside”. Couches and picnic tables beckon for long hours of lounging fueled by filling food.
Where: Budapest 1070, Kazinczy Street 53.
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