Introduction

People know Budapest for the diverse and varied traditional dishes found there. A good way to see local culture and sample real Hungarian gastronomy is to try the restaurants around you. If you’re a newcomer searching for the best places known by locals, you need this guide. We’ll guide you through Hungarian cuisine, letting you know where to enjoy traditional dishes.

The food of Budapest is absorbed with the region’s background, traditions and creative spirit. Even while interest in international restaurants and popular combinations goes up, many locals keep coming back to local staples and places known for familiar, home-style dishes. You’ll discover that both heavy stews, melt-in-the-mouth pastries and street meals can introduce you to the daily traditions of Hungarian cooking.

Budapest’s covered markets

A real example of local food traditions is found at one of the market halls in Budapest. Both the Great Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok) and the Central Market Hall (Fővám Tér) are the most widely recognized ones. You’ll find these busy markets full of fresh crops, locally grown meats and dishes from the bakeries. Enjoying the city’s street food is easy, as you’ll find stalls with lángos and chimney cakes.

These markets are both shopping centers and cultural spaces where activity is part of everyday life. Both mornings and early afternoons are great, as this is when the souks open and you may see some locals shopping along with the vendors. If you’d like to learn more about a specific dish or ingredient, feel free to talk to the person running the stall. Casual dining places can be found upstairs in many market halls for anyone who wants a quick, enjoyable meal.

Café Gerbeaud

Founded in 1858, Café Gerbeaud is a much-loved café and pastry shop on Vörösmarty Square. The place is highly appreciated by the community for their scrumptious pastries, traditionally made cakes and lovely coffees. Gerbeaud slice is a specialty here, so make sure you order at least one.

Its lovely interior and its beautiful chandeliers and antique pieces give every visit an elegant and charming mood. Gerbeaud is visited by travelers, though locals still come there for everyday ceremonies, luxurious sweets or to relish the time-honored espresso. Plan your visit when it isn’t as crowded.

Karaván Street Food

You can find the colorful Karaván in the streets of the Jewish Quarter. If you’re looking for lots of foods to try and plenty of atmosphere, locals say to visit this place. There are burgers, fries, Mexican tacos and even chimney cakes, so there’s always a dish for every craving at Karaván. You can relax outside and watch as the area stays busy and lively.

Because it’s by the well-known Szimpla Kert ruin bar, Karaván is perfect for a quick lunch or a lively start to the evening. Because the food trucks rotate, you can always enjoy something new. Karaván gives you lots of options: vegan food, Hungarian favorites and creative twists — simply and easily in one place.

Ruszwurm Confectionery

The properly old Ruszwurm Confectionery was established in 1827 and is located in the attractive Castle District. Its traditionally baked Hungarian pastries and cakes, among them the cream-filled Dobos cake and apple strudel, have drawn a lot of attention. Enter this place full of charm and get yourself a sweet treat while looking at the wonderful, historical things around you.

Being close to nature and surrounded by old-style furniture, here you don’t feel the rush of the city. Because this spot is close to Buda Castle, it’s a great choice for a dessert or coffee break after seeing the sights. Try not to visit on weekends and for a traditional experience, go with herbal tea and hot espresso after your pastry.

Étkezde-Style Restaurants

Étkezde restaurants are opened just to keep locals well fed with something quick and tasty. Traditional meals from Hungary are served here, with portions that are bigger than you’d expect and rates that won’t break the bank.

Many are owned by families and found on side streets which makes them all the more appealing. The dishes are limited and carefully chosen and the regular menu has special choices that depend on seasonal ingredients. The vast majority of these restaurants serve people mainly for lunch, with most of their customers coming regularly. Do not come here searching for fancy dishes—a lovely meal, attentive staff and typical Hungarian food are what you’ll find.

Belvárosi Lugas Restaurant

Locals tend to love Belvárosi Lugas Étterem in the city center because it’s an étkezde-style restaurant. Give a taste to delicious goulash, chunky stews and thin and crispy schnitzel. Thanks to the nice setting and helpful service, enjoying traditional Hungarian meals doesn’t have to be expensive.

You will find the restaurant best if you are staying close to St. Stephen’s Basilica or the Hungarian Parliament. If you don’t know what to pick, the staff will often be glad to suggest something that fits your taste. Chicken paprika and stuffed cabbage are traditional favorites sold at most restaurants here.

Frici Papa Kifőzdéje’s Phone Number

Picture yourself traveling to the Old World when you enter Frici Papa Kifőzdéje. The traditional Hungarian meals in Újlipótváros include beef stew, stuffed peppers and potato pancakes, all served at this retro restaurant. You’ll get a lot of food and the tastes are like those you’d find in a local restaurant. Try drinking some homemade pálinka, it’s an authentic Hungarian fruit brandy.

The place is special because everything feels so nostalgic and unassuming. You can find the menu written simply, often by hand and it’s easy on your wallet. Those who want to eat on a budget and see a more local area ought to check out this area.

Ruins Bars

Unique ruin bars in Budapest help convert old, ruined spaces into fun and lively places for socializing. Besides being lively and creative, these bars cook up some of the best food in town.

Szimpla Kert

Szimpla Kert is a renowned ruin bar among Hungarian bars. Currently, it invites you with its uncommon style and Sunday market of fruits, locally made food items and many street foods. There’s a dish for every mood, whether you’re in the mood for a classic burger, pizza or something vegan, at Szimpla Kert.

The Sunday market attracts locals who want to find handmade products, crafted items and wholesome groceries nearby. The event draws shoppers as well as those looking for a festive offering of live music and activities for the whole family. During the week, the bar keeps its food popular with those looking for something to match their drinks.

Instant

Instant is a well-known ruin bar thanks to the variety of food on its menu. On site, you’ll encounter food trucks and small stands offering dishes from nearly all world cuisines. Have some delicious pad thai or a pulled pork sandwich or wrap your lunch with humus and falafel as you mix with the locals.

Along with the complex, this venue brings people in for dinner and lets them dance late into the night. It combines food, drinks, music and socializing all under one roof in a different but warm environment.

Final Thoughts

One way to taste the city’s real flavors is to eat at the places Hungarians often prefer. No matter what you pick, from nearby outlets to stylish eateries and beer pubs, you can be sure of satisfying your taste buds on your trip. Try some of these tasty dishes, once you’ve got your fork.