1/14
The duchess
The Matild Palace, the Luxury Collection Hotel, is the definition of aristocratic splendour, and fortunately, its restaurants allow you to taste this elegance without having to book a room. The Duchess can be reached by lift, what’s more, the first lift in the city, so even the quick, gentle ascent to the top of Matild Palace has a story to tell. Once you’re up there, it’s more than breathtaking. Even the interior of the perfectly equipped rooftop bar is easy to miss for the stunning view. Let’s start, for example, by taking a closer look at the facade of the Zsolnay House with the elephant motifs, then look into the distance and spy the Gellért Hill like Archduchess Clotilde did at the beginning of the last century when the roof was secretly open as the seat of a mysterious decadent movement. Make sure you visit at least once to experience what it’s like to almost float over the Elizabeth Bridge.
2/14
Robinson
Robinson is a veritable little island of peace at the City Park's Boating Lake. It’s the perfect spot for a rom-com couple’s date, with the beautifully illuminated Vajdahunyad Castle and lush greenery in the background. The restaurant opened in 1989 but is still a crowd favourite. Even though trends have come and gone, it feels eternal. In terms of its professionalism and looks, it has Western, rather American, vibes. Also, it alternates between Hungarian and international dishes and boasts a fairytale-like panorama.
3/14
Monkey Restaurant
Monkey is located in the historic Várkert Bazár, in a section with the best view, bringing back the sound of carefree cheers to this place. Once IFI Park stood here, sorrowfully awaiting better times for decades. In addition to the indoor space, perfect for all seasons, there’s a huge rooftop terrace where you can book a table if you’re looking for a nice modern take on Hungarian cuisine, but it’s also the perfect place for a drink with friends on the Buda side. It offers a full panorama of the Danube and Pest, and if you look up, the Castle looms overhead. They make exquisite cocktails and a wide selection of local wines, and the background music is always pleasant. What’s more, four-legged friends are also welcome at Monkey!
4/14
Dunacorso Restaurant
We are not beating about the bush: Dunacorso Restaurant is located in the most touristy area of town, the Danube Promenade. If you are now feeling a bit wary about it being a tourist trap, rest assured: it is not. The restaurant, handed down from generation to generation, is being preserved and constantly improved by a family of caterers. Each lunch and dinner on the terrace is bliss. Particularly at sunset and especially with the Hot Jazz Band playing in the background! It’s also a downright cinematic scene: you can observe closely as the sun sets behind Matthias Church. It’s worth ordering one of Dunacorso’s classics, and let us give you a hint: the fried veal leg is delicious!
5/14
High
The first visit to the Aria Hotel's rooftop bar is one to remember! We can give you a hint that the Basilica is close, but we can't prepare you for the actual sight that awaits. The dome is magical and almost within reach, so no wonder it became a popular spot for wedding proposals. It is definitely an exclusive experience: we like to visit during the so-called blue hour when the sun is at a significant depth below the horizon, and the remaining sunlight takes on a mostly blue shade. From the High Note SkyBar, you can see the sights through a golden filter: Matthias Church, Buda Castle, and the Parliament, whose dome is at the same height as the Basilica. Take your pick of the signature cocktails, and stay a little longer on a starry night!
6/14
Aranybástya
The magnificent Lónyay-Hatvany villa is located in the Buda Castle, where the Aranybástya restaurant and café offers not only great food but also a stunning panorama. The former Turkish fortress has a rich history, and world-famous Hungarian architect Miklós Ybl designed an imposing building to replace it. The views and surroundings are equally aristocratic, and the shaded terrace with its pond is the perfect place for a date or a festive dinner, spent overlooking the city. Although the restaurant is a fine bistro in concept, the dishes are simple yet unique in execution. The menu is characterised by traditional Hungarian dishes, presented in a modern, beautiful way. Also, make sure to leave space for dessert! Lunch or dinner is accompanied by an excellent selection of wines and champagnes, while the bar offers cocktails and lemonades.
7/14
Spoon
Spoon the Boat, an extravagant stationary boat at Vigadó tér is the queen of boat dinners. It has recently been revamped: the brand new cuisine offers sumptuous food, combining cosmopolitan fine dining with traditional Hungarian contemporary cuisine. They also spoil you with fabulous cocktails, a winter garden, and two huge terraces, not to mention views of the capital’s most beautiful locations: Buda Castle, the illuminated bridges, and the Várkert Bazár. Dining here is an impressive experience that will make you fall irresistibly in love with Budapest. It is definitely a bucket list item.
8/14
Esetleg Bisztró
Situated on the corner of Bálna, facing the city centre, Esetleg has a reserved place on our list. The bistro is perfect for pre-party drinks, sunset chilling in the garden, or a lively dinner. It offers a spectacular view: the sunlight plays on the Liberty Bridge, the Gellért Hill, and the Gellért Hotel as it sets. Then the starry sky and the sparkling city replace the daytime panorama. We mostly like to relax in the sun loungers and drink a light wine spritzer, but if you’re looking for comfort food after a long day, you can find it too.
9/14
Savoyai Terasz
The Savoyai Terasz is a special place in the Buda Castle District, next to the equestrian statue of Prince Eugene of Savoy. Here, you can enjoy refreshing drinks and delicious food on one of the most beautiful terraces in Budapest, featuring a breathtaking view. The terrace is open every day of the year and serves delicious cocktails, fine wines, and quality beers while the city lies at your feet, displaying its history. The cheerful staff are constantly working to offer refreshing treats on sunny days and warming delicacies in the winter chill. And at Savoyai Terasz, there’s no shortage of events, either: live music is played regularly, including concerts, DJs, gypsy music, rockabilly, and acoustic tunes. They even organise outdoor exhibitions.
10/14
Búsuló Juhász Restaurant
Búsuló Juhász, up on Gellért Hill, is a legendary story that started in 1937. It sits on a viewpoint that should be exploited to the fullest. Just peering out of its large windows from above is an experience on its own, no surprise it’s one of the most popular wedding venues on the Buda side. As for gastronomy, the shepherd is not sad in this regard (the name “Búsuló Juhász” meaning “the sad shepherd”), but rather satisfied as both inside and on his terrace Hungarian classics are served. But of course, the dishes boast a French base, a touch of international twist, and a modern take. In addition to the permanent menu, keep an eye on the chef’s offer: it’s seasonal and creative.
11/14
Hemingway Restaurant
Hemingway has been open on the banks of Lake Feneketlen in the residential part of Újbuda (Szentimreváros) since 1999. This is one of our favourite artificial lakes in Budapest, where we have strolled so many times and watched the twilight setting in. You can do the same at the restaurant, which has been a popular event venue for over 30 years. Its selection appeals to both travellers who want to sample Hungarian cuisine and those who prefer something international.
12/14
White Raven
Rarely do you get the chance to view the Zsolnay roof tiles of Matthias Church as closely as from the comfort of the Hilton’s rooftop White Raven Skybar & Lounge? All while sipping cocktails and munching on delicious finger food. From the rooftop, you can see almost the whole of Margaret Island, but also the Buda Hills and even the longest stretch of the Danube. It is easy to lose yourself in the panorama, and it is even better to add some smoked almonds, burgers, and chips with truffle aioli to go with it. If you are more than peckish, try burrata, salmon, and corn chicken, and make sure you don’t miss the desserts, which can be accompanied by almost any drink from the extensive drinks list.
13/14
Szitakötő
Szitakötő is not a classic restaurant, but the term 'bar' is not the best to describe it either. Regardless, it is the newest addition to Népsziget (Mosquito Island), a hip island on the Danube, which was a pleasant surprise for us. With the river just an arm's length away, the magnificent towers of the Óbuda Gasworks, and hills stretching peacefully in the background, watching the sun go down here is an unforgettable experience. The place feels very urban yet close to nature, something you'll quickly grow to love and long for. They offer excellent wines, but they're also passionate about beer and bake delicious pizza, so you can even enjoy a more relaxed romantic dinner at Szitakötő, accompanied by sparkling wine. Whether you come on foot or by bike, you and your furry companions are always welcome. The atmosphere is exquisite, and the view is magnificent.
14/14
Leo Bistro
Now that the Chain Bridge is no longer under renovation, you don’t even have to climb up to LEO's rooftop bar to enjoy the view of the bridge. The bistro downstairs also offers a picturesque view: you can eye up the lions, the Danube, and the Pest side. Just turn right through the gigantic doors of Hotel Clark Budapest, and you will find yourself in an aesthetically pleasing place. On sunny days, the terrace is open, letting you catch a closer glance at the lions and the pulsating city. Breakfast is served from 7 am and brunch starts at 11:30 am on weekends. There is something for everyone at lunch and dinner. For those preferring a more Hungarian flair, options are aplenty, but you can try international favourites tailored to LEO, too. Fortunately, the menu includes several creative vegetarian dishes, making the repertoire democratic.
