Spring is in the air and where better to bask in the first rays of sunshine than a café terrace in Budapest? Here we suggest the first ones to put out their chairs and tables, bar, bistro or eatery.
1/8
Akvárium Klub
Found on focal Deák tér, the Akvárium Klub is usually among the first locations to open their terrace for the warmer season. When the sun is out, you can already see people sipping spritzers by the artificial lake near the club, but the terrace tables on the wide staircase leading to this live-music venue also fill with guests seeking to catch some rays.
Tip: Try the magenta burger with sweet potato chips on the side.
2/8
Blitz.Konyha
Specialising in comfort food, Blitz.Konyha is always one of the first to open up their terrace, so you should be able to devour their tasty pizzas in the sun. There are seats both upstairs and downstairs – and their white wines are quite something.
Tip: Marrakech pizza with Bencze 2014 Virgo wine.
3/8
Café Smúz
With its terrace open since February, Smúz is a hybrid of a café and flower shop right by Parliament on Kossuth tér. Known for its colourful coffee concoctions and fine cakes, Smúz also serves breakfast decorated with edible flower petals. If it turns chilly, you can sit by the large picture windows to soak in the sunshine.
Tip: Hot drinks come in many colour combinations, such as blue velvet latte and pink hot chocolate.
4/8
Esetleg Bistro
The panorama at Esetleg is amazing, both during the day and at night. On warmer days, their terrace opens up, so you can recharge under the sun with all kinds of tasty drinks.
Tip: Try their special teas.
5/8
Fekete
If perhaps not the sunniest of hangouts, Fekete’s semi-hidden courtyard provides a pleasant alfresco shelter from the wind. Come here for some of Budapest’s finest coffees and pastries, served by the little fountain at this enclosure on Múzeum körút.
Tip: Those who buy a bag of the Fekete coffee beans are treated to a cup of java at the bar.
6/8
KIOSK Budapest
One of the sunniest destinations in town, Március 15. tér is also a popular place thanks to its panoramic view over the Danube and Gellért Hill. The square’s buzzing hangout KIOSK is ideal for a cake or a cocktail. Lounging on the spacious terrace, you can also order a burger, risotto or chicken paprikash.
Tip: Sample one of the many varieties of KIOSK gin-and-tonic cocktails.
7/8
Sarki Fűszeres Deli and Café
Sarki Fűszeres on busy Pozsonyi út is ideal for people watching in gentrifying District XIII. Many start the terrace season here, as the high tables outside are perfect for soaking up the first rays of spring sunshine.
Tip: The menu is all new, feel free to ask the baristas.
8/8
Toprum (Closed)
Rooftop Toprum has just been reconfigured and now serves brunches and tasty lunches – the wonderful panorama, modern bar culture and live evening music remain. It is always sunny up here, closer to the Budapest skies.
Tip: Try the special desserts.
