The price of food plays a big role when you’re visiting Budapest. When you know the cost of meals in advance, it’s easier to manage your money and enjoy your travels. In this blog, we will explain what the average price of a meal in Budapest is in pounds.

What is the currency used there?

Before moving on to the prices, let’s look at the currency used in Hungary. Hungarian Forint (HUF) is used as the currency in Hungary. Instead of ILS, all prices throughout this article will be displayed in British Pounds (GBP) for your ease. Since HUF and GBP rates change, it’s helpful to check them before you travel or pay to get the most for your money. Many places in the city accept cards, but you may find it’s better to have a bit of local cash to pay smaller or street vendors.

Ways to Enjoy Dining

You can enjoy good food in Budapest for any price, from small eateries to top restaurants. How much you pay at a restaurant depends on the place you go. There are several types of dining experiences you will find here.

Street Food:

 You can find street food throughout Budapest which is tasty and won’t break the bank. Many street vendors are offering traditional Foods in Budapest, like Langos and Chimney Cakes at affordable rates. You’ll usually have to spend between £2 and £5 to enjoy a meal from a street vendor. Because they are cheap and include famous local recipes, you can taste the town’s food can at a low price. Often, you’ll spot these vendors at markets, next to tourist sites and on pedestrian streets. Because of this, street food is a good pick if you’re not rich or just want to eat something fast between sightseeing.

Casual Restaurants:

 Casual restaurants are a wonderful choice when you want to have a meal while seated. Clients at these restaurants can enjoy Hungarian and international foods. The cost of a casual meal in a restaurant can be between £7 and £15. Locals and tourists both choose to visit these restaurants because they feel comfortable and are served food both from the past and from the present. You’ll see that buffets provide plenty of food, easygoing service and a low-stress atmosphere. If you’re looking for inexpensive ways to eat, consider using the set lunch menu at casual restaurants to try traditional Hungarian dishes.

Mid-Range Restaurants:

 There are lots of mid-range restaurants in Budapest if upscale dining is what you want. Restaurants like these have a larger menu and a welcoming atmosphere. A mid-range restaurant’s prices for meals are normally between £15 and £30. Here you’ll locate bistros, wine bars and restaurants where the food is nicely arranged and service is polite and skilled. A lot of mid-range restaurants highlight seasonal ingredients and menus that include dishes from main Hungarian cuisine and popular international recipes. If you’re after a tasty meal in a special location without paying a lot, you should come here.

Fine Dining Restaurants are special places.

 A fine dining food experience is easy to find in Budapest and will likely please your palate. You will find dishes here that have been prepared by famous chefs. Even though the prices at fine dining can differ greatly, they will usually begin at £30 for each meal. Enjoying fine dining in Budapest means you’ll have great food, excellent service and a beautiful atmosphere. Many of these places serve tasting menus, match their meals with wine and use both local and worldly ideas. Fine dining may be costly, but it is worth trying out when you’re treating yourself to a lavish meal.

Causes of Price Fluctuations

The costs mentioned may rise or fall depending on the restaurant’s location, the popularity it enjoys and the season. You’ll often pay more in restaurants close to well-known spots than in those farther from the crowds. You may have to pay more for your meal near the Danube River or in the city center, due to the fantastic sights and lots of people.

During the busiest travel periods, you may need to pay more for your trip because costs go up. Meanwhile, if you visit in the off-season or seek out quieter areas, you’ll find better discounts and real Hungarian life. There are times when restaurants have daily specials, known as early bird menus, meant for lunch and can help you get a discount.

Tipping Etiquette

Adding tips to your bill is popular in Budapest, although it’s not required. If you like the service, it’s expected that you will tip. Most customers tip 10% to 15% of the money the bill comes to. If the restaurant adds a service charge, you should always check your bill before giving a gratuity. Extra tipping isn’t necessary if you pay the service charge upfront, although it’s always welcome. Tipping with cash is the usual way, but many restaurants and bars accept tips when you use a card.

If you’re at a cafe or get food or drinks from a street vendor, you can tip if you had a good experience. Tipping a little can thank the team and help them earn more money.

Conclusion

Whatever your budget, there is something to eat in Budapest. Whether it’s a simple street snack or elegant dining, you can find something everyone will like. Select the restaurant type you like and use that knowledge to plan your budget for traveling. Don’t forget to include drinks and any tips you expect to pay in your calculations.