Introduction

Do you want to go to Budapest and are trying to find out the costs of eating out? If that’s what you’re looking for, our guide has you covered. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about what dinner can cost in Budapest, famous meals and useful tips for saving on your expenses. B Budapest and it’s known for having beautiful buildings, a storied past and exciting restaurants. Whether you love traditional foods or something from around the world, there’s plenty for every taste in Budapest. Finding out about prices ahead of time allows you to think carefully about your dining expenses.

How Much Does Dinner Typically Cost

The price of dinner in Budapest depends on the sort of place you are eating at. You will typically spend between 2500 and 5000 HUF for a meal for one in a local restaurant. Usually, the price covers one appetizer, a main meal and one drink. You’ll find that these mid-range restaurants usually have a pleasant setting and serve true Hungarian meals, prepared with nearby ingredients. For most visitors, this is an attractive price, since it is far less than what you would pay in other European cities.

Celebratory dining might cost each person between 5000 and 10000 HUF. These eateries typically feature an array of special dishes and a mood that’s more upscale. You’ll notice that Budapest’s fine restaurants are experimenting with menus that use both Hungarian and global trends. Sometimes, you’ll find wine pairings or tasting menus that make the bill go up. Even so, these places are excellent for people who wish to experience the best Hungarian cuisine.

Keep in mind that neighborhoods can affect the prices of homes. Eating out in the heart of the city or close to popular attractions means you’ll often pay more, but you’ll find cheaper prices in other areas.

Popular Dishes

Make sure you taste a few Hungarian traditional dishes when you visit Budapest. The traditionally rich and historic Hungarian dishes are enhanced by the use of a lot of paprika. Here’s what people often order and what they spend:

Goulash (Gulyás)

This Hungarian soup is thick and rich, flavored by beef, vegetables and Hungarian paprika. You should give it a shot, since you can get it for anywhere between 1000-2000 HUF at local eateries. It doesn’t get much warmer than goulash and its hearty, rustic taste is typical in Hungarian cuisine. In numerous places, it’s reported as a bowl of soup or a stew, usually with fresh bread.

Chicken Paprikash is also known as Paprikás Csirke.

To cook the chicken, paprika and sour cream are added and it’s served with Hungarian dumplings or nokedli. You shouldn’t spend more than 1500-2500 HUF on it. Chicken Paprikash is found on menus and dinner tables all over Hungary. Most people enjoy it because of its soft sauce and warm, home-made taste.

Lángos

You can find Lángos on most Budapest streets. It consists of fried dough dressed up with a selection of fillings. Lángos is sold for 500-1000 HUF in Hungary. Topping favorites include garlic sauce, sour cream, cheese or if you want something sweet, some jams and powdered sugar. Many people come across lángos in the markets and use it as either a snack or a fast meal.

Additional Important Dishes

As well as the popular dishes, Hungarian food in Budapest includes savory stuffed pancakes, Fisherman’s soup and Stuffed cabbage. The dishes are usually priced between 1200-3000 HUF, so they’re a good way to try more Hungarian dishes.

How to Save on Travel

While meals are reasonably priced in Budapest, here’s how to spend less.

1. Lunch Specials

At various restaurants, you can get a lunch special and save some money. It’s an excellent way to have something delicious for less money. For the fixed price, they often come with a starter, main dish and, sometimes, dessert or drink. If you use lunchtime specials when you go sightseeing, you won’t have to spend so much on eating out.

2. Local Eateries

Pay a visit to the local restaurants and food stands to see how Hungarian food tastes—for less money than you’d expect in a fancy restaurant. Places like the Great Market Hall and different food trucks offer tasty traditional foods that won’t cost too much. You can see how Hungarian people live and enjoy their traditions here.

3. Share Meals

When you’re with someone, try to share some meals along the way. Many Hungarian meals are quite big and splitting one can help you have a full meal at a better price. Many eateries give out enough food to serve two people, so you can sample several foods without ordering a full meal for just yourself.

4. Stay away from the most crowded places.

You’ll often find that places where tourists go tend to be expensive. Take a walk through the less popular areas to experience inexpensive and good food. Both Újbuda and Józsefváros have plenty of special places to eat that are easy on the wallet. Read customer reviews and ask people who live there where to find these sights.

5. Review what’s served at each restaurant and how much it costs.

Before you go into a restaurant, check the menu and pricing that is shown outside. You can see what to expect and think carefully before your investment. At restaurants in Budapest, you’ll often see the menus posted outside, so make sure to view them before ordering.

Conclusion

There is something delicious for everyone to eat in Budapest, regardless of what you can afford. If you keep dinner prices in mind, sample Hungarian specialties and stick to our budget tips, we’re sure you’ll have a tasty meal without spending too much. If you choose a simple restaurant, a fashionable bistro or even a lively street cart, Budapest’s food will certainly impress you. Have fun trying dishes from around Budapest.