Budapest’s very special ruin bars are not to be missed when you’re out at night. Word has spread outside the city and now the bars welcome both residents and visitors. We will take you through the most famous ruin bar in Budapest, its background, atmosphere and why it’s a place you should visit.

What are Ruin Bars like?

Ruin bars started appearing in the early 2000s when people began using old and ruined buildings and yards to create interesting bars. The decor in these style cafes includes mismatched furniture, retro effects, graffiti walls and an artistic feel.

In the Hungarian capital’s once abandoned Jewish Quarter, artists reinvented old buildings to create new places for culture. Ruin bars demonstrate the process of urban healing, eco-friendly principles and strong community. They are now much more than only places to drink—they host art shows, live music and give locals and tourists a community feel.

The Most Well-Known Ruin Bar: Szimpla Kert

In a city full of ruin bars, Szimpla Kert is known for being the most recognized and loved. Being in the Jewish Quarter, this bar has turned into an outstanding landmark for nightlife in the city.

History

In 2002, Szimpla Kert opened as Budapest’s earliest ruin bar. At first, it was a squat built by some local entrepreneurs and soon it drew big crowds and became an important center for art and culture nearby.

An original pop-up was soon upgraded to be a bar, leading the way for a unique kind of entertainment venue. He wanted to turn an abandoned building into a joyful place open to creativity, music, art and fun. Szimpla Kert has grown famous over the years as a hub for Budapest’s nightlife, making it a main stopping point for visitors..

How the place is decorated

When you arrive at Szimpla Kert, it seems like you’ve walked into a different place. Having vintage pieces, bright lights and unusual art sets the perfect scene for tea enjoyment. Every area of the bar offers something interesting and there’s always something surprising to discover.

The walls are full of old street signs, rusty bicycles hang above and the chairs are actually bathtubs. All around the venue you can see old typewriters, dolls, old broken signs and items repurposed from factories, creating a unique look for the venue.

One thing that stands out most about Szimpla Kert is its atmospheric open-air inner courtyard. There are rustic seats and tables in the courtyard and you’ll find interesting decorations and plants everywhere. As night starts, everyone comes to the courtyard to have fun, drink and listen to live bands.

Menaul features murals, graffiti and messages from people in the past, making the school special and meaningful as time goes on. If you need quiet, you can find it and if you feel like dancing with others, that’s possible too.

Events

Szimpla Kert hosts many different events and activities meant for everyone. There’s always a good show, music set, film or art display going on at this lively ruin bar.

Supporting new and upcoming artists is one of the most important highlights on Szimpla’s calendar. Because so many events are free, almost anyone can enjoy them. Often, there are themed nights at the space, including retro evenings, jazz events and support for charity. There is a great focus on bringing people together, as they offer open mic nights and hold occasional educational discussions.

On weekends, Szimpla Kert also has a farmer’s market with fresh produce, homemade trinkets and special souvenirs. In the center of the hotel is a selection of locally grown veggies, artisan cheeses, handmade soaps and beautiful jewelry. There’s more to Shimpla than most bars, thanks to how it mixes party and museum-like spaces.

Menu

You shouldn’t leave Szimpla Kert without trying one—or more—of their diverse drinks. Patrons can try a long list of Hungarian beers, signature cocktails and fruit brandy at the bar.

There are numerous classics and artistic house specials offered on the drinks menu. If you prefer tonics, warm mulled wine or even spritzer drinks with fruit, you’ll find something you’ll enjoy all year round.

Those who get hungry will find lots of tasty food stalls inside the bar serving street food. No matter what you like to eat, there’s something that fits your taste at any Hungarian restaurant. As soon as the drinks start flowing, burgers, lángos, vegan wraps and gourmet sandwiches top the list of favorite food choices.

Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Szimpla Kert

Try these tips to get the most out of your time at Szimpla Kert:

• Try to get there in time to avoid having to fight the crowd and stand far from where you want to watch.
• Take a few minutes to discover all the different spaces and unique corners in the bar.
• Have a local Hungarian beer or cocktail for something different when you want to drink
• Connect with people from the area and people traveling as well to get a feel for the active environment.
• Bring some cash with you since Szimpla Kert doesn’t take cards.
• Don’t interfere with the place or the art; try to leave the site untouched.

Szimpla Kert has come to stand for how Budapest brings together its history and modern ideas. A bar is more than somewhere to get a drink—it creates a sense of being, a tale and showcases what makes urban culture unique.

Final Thoughts

Spend time in the bohemian surroundings and active atmosphere present at Szimpla Kert. No matter if you’re into bars, like art or just seek something original, this popular ruin bar in Budapest will give you an unforgettable time.

If you’re in Budapest again, make sure to discover the unique atmosphere of ruin bars, starting with Szimpla Kert.