So if you are a food lover and are planning a trip to Budapest you are in luck! This gastronomic paradise is also a very vibrant city that provides fantastic food and deliciousness. Budapest had something different to satisfy taste from the traditional Hungarian cuisine to the international dishes with a twist. In this blog post we will guide you through the whole Budapest cuisine and show you the best places to eat here.

1. It is called Central Market Hall.

First stop on food adventure is Budapest’s Central Market Hall; a bustling market situated in the heart of Budapest. Local produce, spices and traditional Hungarian specialties are available here. For anyone who seeks the real taste of the authentic flavors and the ingredients, the market is a real treasure trove. This is where you start looking for paprika, pickled vegetables or handcrafted sausages.

Head up the stairs and make your way to the food court, where there are plenty of food stalls you can pick from offering everything from goulash to lángos, a savory deep fried dough (topped with everything from sour cream, cheese, ham, you name it). Don’t miss a chance to taste chimney cake – a sweet, cinnamon and sugar coated pastry rolled from heated chimney cake presses that are often served warm and filled with ice cream. Locals and tourists alike can find it a favorite and what better way to get a taste of Hungarian street food culture.

2. Ruin Bars

Most tourists in Budapest come to ruin bars which are unique bars built in abandoned buildings. As well as a good selection of beverages, these hip and quirky places serve up some delicious food as well. For those that are eager to experience Budapest’s nightlife, at its most unusual, they are a must visit.

One of the original ruin bars, the most famous ruin bar in the country and the largest, is Szimpla Kert, where they serve Hungarian sausages, fried cheese and crispy French fries among its wide range of street food items. It is a vegetarian friendly menu with rotating food vendors that usually offer seasonal specialties. With eclectic decor, mismatched furniture and a range of unbeatable people to eat lunch with (from students to world travelers), enjoy your meal in a laid back atmosphere. This is not just a meal, it is an experience.

3. Karaván Street food court.

For a large range of international street food you should definitely hit the Karaván Street Food Court. Food courtamerican beauty, located in Kazinczy Street steps from Szimpla Kert, this is a fragrant food court with a varied selection of food trucks and stalls. People can pick their favorite cuisine which makes it a great place for groups.

Try sample Mexican tacos, Vietnamese pho, Israeli falafel or delectable burgers and hotdogs. You will also discover, however, local specialties (gourmet lángos with pulled pork or arugula, for example). With communal seating and a lively atmosphere its a perfect place to grab a quick bite or casual dinner with friends. Karaván earns a second star for its magic which peaks during the evening when twinkling lights and upbeat music float the guest’s mind into traveling space.

4. Michelin-Star Restaurants

Budapest has several Michelin starred restaurants for a special dining experience to show off the sophistication and creativity of Hungarian cuisine. With these establishments you have refined dishes in beautiful settings that food connoisseurs will love.

The modern Hungarian cuisine with a creative twist is what the two Michelin star restaurant named Onyx serves. Seasonal ingredients and new techniques are used in the making of each dish which is created as if it were a piece of art. Elegant interior, impeccable service and outstanding dishes on the menu make this one of the best places for a romantic dinner or celebratory meal.

And Costes is also a Michelin starred restaurant where they take an innovative view to the Hungarian cuisine. Along with the traditional flavors they offer contemporary flair making the tasting menu a luxurious yet grounded in Hungarian culinary heritage fine dining experience. These highly sought after restaurants are booked up fast so be sure to book ahead.

5. Strudel House

Having Hungarian strudel is a must when in Budapest. In the Castle District, the Strudel House offers sweet and savory strudels made with old fashioned recipes which have been handed down through the generations. This place is located at charming interior and historic location.

Their selection of strudels include apple and cherry to cheese and cabbage that are really mouthwatering. Buttery layers melt in your mouth on each strudel which have been baked fresh. Take a break from sightseeing enjoy a warm slice with a cup of coffee or Hungarian herbal tea with the beautiful city views. The staff are relatively friendly and normally will give a short history of the strudel tradition to fill in when we are waiting for our dessert to arrive.

6. Budapest Market Hall (Piac).

The Budapest Market Hall (or Fény Street Market Hall) is also another great market to explore. Not as touristy as the Central Market Hall but loved by the locals for its fresh and high quality produce. Throughout you’ll find stalls selling fresh produce, meats, pastries and so on.

If you want to sample lángos (a popular Hungarian street snack consisting of deep fried dough topped with sour cream and grated cheese), you don’t want to miss this one. The lángos here is generally cheaper than its counterparts in tourist rich areas and much more authentic. Besides this, the market also offers great opportunity to buy local ingredients to be taken home like honey, sausages or Hungarian wines. For those who prefer the local, more down-to-earth culinary experience though, it’s a great stop.

7. Gelato Rosa

Gelato Rosa comes in if you need a sweet treat to cool down. Near St. Stephen’s Basilica comes one of the best gelato in Budapest. Unlike any other gelato shop, what makes Gelato Rosa special is how they shape their gelato into beautiful flower petals which makes it an Instagm as well as delicious treat.

There are a wide variety of flavours to choose from, ranging from classic to innovative (lavender or chili mango). All natural ingredients and artisanally made, Budapest is growing dessert culture is reflected in this product.

Conclusion

Budapest’s culinary scene is thriving, and there’s no shortage of amazing places to eat. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Hungarian cuisine or in the mood for international flavors, Budapest has it all. From bustling markets to Michelin-starred restaurants, this city offers a diverse range of dining options that will satisfy even the most discerning food enthusiast.

So pack your appetite and get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure in Budapest. With so many flavors to explore and experiences to savor, your taste buds are in for a memorable journey through one of Europe’s most delicious capitals.