Do you want to find out about traveling to Budapest? Having great meals is definitely a top thing to do here. The tradition of enjoying special drinks and dishes before a meal is one of the reasons to sample local food and culture in Budapest. We will go through the world of aperitifs and give you useful tips for finding the best places in Budapest.

What is the meaning of Aperitif?

Many people have an aperitif before a meal to help them feel more hungry. You can drink it with alcohol or not and it is popular across most European countries. It was in the 18th century that people started drinking aperitifs to assist digestion and improve their meals.

In Hungary and in many other Central European countries, sharing aperitifs is a social tradition, not only a tradition before dinner. Aperitifs are a chance for people to relax, socialize and make their mouths ready for the meal. Begin any Budapest night by enjoying an aperitif; it slowly introduces you to the city.

Well-known Aperitifs in Budapest

There is a large selection of aperitifs you can try in Budapest. Some of the most well-known platforms are described below:

• Many Hungarians enjoy Pálinka, a fruit brandy made from nearby grown apricots, plums or pears. It delivers a bold flavor which is a sizeable reason to choose it if you like strong-tasting coffee. Some people in Hungary take a small shot of wine before their evening meal to feel more awake. Be careful about too much hot sauce—it’s not for people with weak stomachs!
• A fröccs is the same as an Italian wine spritzer but with Hungarian wine and sparkling water. Change the ratio of wine to water to taste your own way. Often, people have a kisfröccs (which is a small spritzer) or opt for a hosszúlépés (this is a deeper pour with more soda). Because it is light, fizzy and perfect for the heat, fröccs has become a typical aperitif in Budapest.
• Unicum: The bittersweet liqueur called Unicum was first made in Hungary about two hundred years ago. Some enjoy it for the unique taste and usually drink it as a digestif, but it can also be used as an aperitif. Unicum is made using over 40 different herbs and aged in oak which gives it a strong, somewhat medicinal flavor. People see it as prized in Italy and a must-have drink before a meal.

The best places in Budapest for an Aperitif

You’ll find some great places for aperitifs in Budapest listed here. The following destinations are already known and worth seeing:

1. Szimpla Kert

Many tourists know Szimpla Kert as a legendary ruin bar in Budapest. There is a great choice of aperitifs and everything is served in a fun and stylish environment. See if you can get their unique froccs cocktail which is a twist on the famous drink. Because there are mismatched pieces and unusual items all around, it is a unique venue for your night.

2. Boutiq’Bar

At Boutiq’Bar, famous for its cocktails, they make drinks mainly from high-quality, carefully chosen ingredients. Their menu of drinks before dinner is full of unique and delicious choices. These bartenders are skilled, trying new things using local, homemade and seasonal flavors. It is recommended for people who want a more sophisticated pre-meal drink.

3. Élesztő

Élesztő is both a craft beer pub and an aperitif bar. If you enjoy chilling out with plenty of drinks from around the world, here is the place for you. Élesztő, found in Budapest’s 9th district, is now a restaurant in a former glassworks and gives guests a relaxed setting with street food stalls and a communal seating area.

You might also try reaching the top of a building for drinks and views at 360 Bar or High Note SkyBar before dining.

How to Have a Good Time Enjoying Aperitifs in Budapest

1. Appreciate and participate in customs of the local area.

While having aperitifs in Budapest, follow the traditions that are important there. Try a variety of Hungarian foods and drinks, discover the many flavors and explore the city’s food culture. Inquire about special drinks or cocktails from the area or made in-house—sometimes these are not shown on the drink list.

2. Pace Yourself

Because aperitifs are meant to help get you ready for your meal, you should drink them slowly and in moderation. Try to resist overeating and enjoy the taste of the meal. Since pálinka and Unicum are heavy, it’s a good rule to not overdo, so you can feel fine for the rest of your day and night.

3. Try combining different popular drinks with each other.

Drinking your aperitif along with local snacks or appetizers can make the whole experience better. Have a lángos (a fried dough dish with sour cream and cheese) or a pogácsa (a type of cheesy or bacon scone) with your drinks to enjoy a traditional meal. A lot of bars have tasty small plates that match well with regional wines and spirits.

4. Talk to and help out people who live there.

Talk to the bartenders or other people at the aperitif spots. They are often able to recommend interesting places you might not have noticed. The people in Hungary are usually friendly and love talking about their drinks, so do not be afraid to ask for details.

Final Thoughts

Budapest is known for its festive aperitif culture which combines tradition, innovation and a strong desire to be together. If you’re going for a drink in the lively ruins or in a fancy bar, you’ll find something for everyone in Budapest.

Adopting these tips and joining Budapest’s aperitif scene will teach you about the city’s culture and stay in your memories. Have a good drink before meals and enjoy your trip in Budapest!