Budapest isn’t just the capital of Hungary; it’s a capital of food. If you think of Budapest’s food scene as a buffet, it’s endless. From goulash to fine dining, every bite tells a story. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Hungarian or international flavours, Budapest has it all. Here’s your guide to the best places to eat in Budapest, from local gems to high-end spots.
Best Restaurants in Budapest Right Now
Budapest’s food scene is booming. Whether you’re after comfort food or a culinary experience of a lifetime, the city has it all. Here are the best of the best — restaurants that stand out for food, atmosphere and service.
Borkonyha Winekitchen
- Address: 1051 Budapest, Sas utca 3
- Hours: Monday - Friday, 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM; Saturday, 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM; Sunday, Closed
- Price: $$$$
- Specialty: Hungarian wines, modern European cuisine
Hidden in the city centre, Borkonyha Winekitchen is an upscale restaurant combining modern European cuisine with the best Hungarian wines. Known for its excellent service, Borkonyha is a must visit for wine lovers. The menu is seasonal and reflects Hungary’s culinary heritage.
Features:
- Michelin-starred
- Seasonal tasting menus
- Over 200 Hungarian wines
- Minimalist decor
- Great for wine pairings and fine dining
Menza
- Address: 1061 Budapest, Liszt Ferenc tér 2
- Hours: Monday - Sunday, 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
- Price: $$$
- Specialty: Hungarian comfort food with a twist
In the trendy Liszt Ferenc Square and near the Hungarian State Opera House, Menza is perfect for those who want classic Hungarian comfort food in a lively atmosphere. A local favourite, it serves dishes like goulash, paprika chicken and stuffed cabbage, a taste of traditional food with a modern twist.
Features:
- Casual, retro-style decor
- Great for groups and family meals
- Popular brunch spot
- Reasonable price for the quality
- Spacious outdoor seating in the square
Costes Downtown
- Address: 1051 Budapest, Vigyázó Ferenc utca 5
- Hours: Monday - Sunday, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM & 6:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Price: $$$$
- Specialty: Modern Hungarian cuisine with international influences
This Michelin-starred restaurant is a foodie’s paradise. Located near the Danube River, Costes Downtown offers world-class food and fine dining. The tasting menu is a culinary journey through Hungarian and international flavours. Worth the splurge.
Features:
- Michelin-starred
- High-end tasting menu with wine pairing options
- Modern, sleek decor
- Gluten-free and vegetarian options
- River views
Hungarian Restaurants in Budapest
Hungarian cuisine is a flavour bomb, often featuring rich stews, hearty meat and plenty of paprika. If you want to get into the local food scene, here are the best places to try traditional dishes.
Rosenstein
- Address: 1087 Budapest, Mosonyi u. 3
- Hours: Monday-Saturday, 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM; Sunday, Closed
- Price: $$$
- Specialty: Traditional Hungarian home-cooked meals
For a taste of authentic Hungarian home-cooked meals, Rosenstein in the city centre has got you covered. This family-run restaurant is famous for its generous portions and traditional Hungarian flavours. Try the classic beef goulash or the delicious chicken paprikash with a glass of Hungarian wine.
Features:
- Cozy family-style restaurant
- Homely atmosphere
- Large portions, great for sharing
- Good selection of local Hungarian wines
- Great for lunch or dinner
Gettó Gulyás
- Address: 1077 Budapest, Wesselényi utca 18
- Hours: Monday - Sunday, 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
- Price: $
- Specialty: Goulash, Lángos
Hidden in the Jewish Quarter, across the street from the Dohány Street Synagogue, Gettó Gulyás is a casual spot for goulash and lángos. Perfect for rustic Hungarian cooking in a cozy atmosphere. Don’t miss the fried cheese with a cold Hungarian beer.
Features:
- Hungarian street food-inspired menu
- Affordable with big portions
- Simple, no-frills atmosphere
- Great for casual dining
Try Hungarian comfort food
Kehli Vendéglő
- Address: 1036 Budapest, Mókus u. 22
- Hours: Monday - Friday, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM; Saturday, 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Sunday, 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
- Price: $$$
- Specialty: Paprikash, stews, traditional Hungarian dishes
This charming restaurant near Buda Castle is pure Hungarian tradition. The lamb stew and paprikash are must-try, and the atmosphere is like stepping back in time. At Kehli, every meal is an experience of Hungarian history and culture.
Features:
- Classic Hungarian decor
- Friendly service, homely feel
- Large wine list with local Hungarian wines
- Great for cozy, authentic Hungarian dinner
- Good for groups or intimate dinners
Fine Dining Restaurants in Budapest
For a special occasion, Budapest has several restaurants that take Hungarian and international cuisine to the next level. These places offer stunning views, top-notch service and dishes created by the best chefs in the country.
Stand25 Bistro
- Address: 1013 Budapest, Attila út 10
- Hours: Monday - Friday, 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM & 5:30 PM - 12:00 AM; Sunday, Closed
- Price: $$$$
- Specialty: Hungarian and French-inspired fine dining
One of the best dining experiences in Budapest, Stand25 combines Hungarian produce with French-inspired cooking. Michelin Guide-listed, it’s known for its beautiful presentation and great flavors. The duck liver and sea bass are must-try, perfect for a special occasion.
Features:
- Michelin Guide-listed
- Modern interior with sophisticated atmosphere
- Seasonal menu with local ingredients
- Great service with knowledgeable staff
- Private dining options
Onyx
- Address: 1051 Budapest, Vörösmarty tér 7-8
- Hours: Monday - Wednesday, 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Thursday - Sunday, Closed
- Price: $$$$$
- Specialty: Creative Hungarian fine dining
Two-Michelin-starred Onyx is a culinary masterpiece. The food is creative yet rooted in Hungarian tradition, with a menu celebrating the country’s diverse regional flavors. Elegant dining room and top-notch service make this one of the most exclusive dining spots in Budapest.
Features:
- Two Michelin stars
- Tasting menus with wine pairings
- Focus on high-quality Hungarian ingredients
- Romantic and refined atmosphere
- Reservation required
Babel Budapest
- Address: 1052 Budapest, Piarista köz 2, next to the Eliabeth Bridge
- Hours: Tuesday - Saturday, 5:30 PM - 12:00 AM; Sunday - Monday, Closed
- Price: $$$$
- Specialty: Hungarian fine dining with a modern twist
Babel’s modern take on Hungarian fine dining is what sets it apart. The tasting menu blends local ingredients with modern techniques. Each dish is carefully crafted to showcase Hungary’s rich culinary heritage, making it a must-visit for a luxurious dining experience.
Features:
- Michelin-starred
- Modern interpretations of traditional Hungarian flavors
- Spacious dining room* Reservation required due to high demand
- Great service, knowledgeable staff
Street Food in Budapest
Budapest’s street food scene is a mix of the city’s cultures and history. From lángos to rétes, these snacks are the perfect way to experience Budapest on the go.
Szimpla Kert
- Address: 1075 Budapest, Kazinczy utca 14
- Hours: Monday - Friday, 3:00 PM - 4:00 AM; Saturday, 12:00 PM - 4:00 AM; Sunday, 9:00 AM - 4:00 AM
- Price: $
- Specialty: Lángos, craft beer
Famous for its ruin bar, Szimpla Kert is a street food hotspot. Try lángos, a deep-fried Hungarian flatbread topped with sour cream, cheese or garlic. Pair it with a local craft beer and enjoy the atmosphere.
Features:
- Ruin bar with a unique vibe
- Popular with locals and tourists
- Food stalls with vegan options
- Casual dining and drinks
- Open late for evening bites
Karaván Street Food
- Address: 1075 Budapest, Kazinczy utca 18
- Hours: Monday - Sunday, 11:30 AM - 12:00 PM
- Price: $
- Specialty: Hungarian sausages, gourmet burgers
In the Jewish Quarter, just 2 minutes away from the Kazinczy Street Synagogue, Karaván Street Food is a food truck park with all of Budapest’s street food. You’ll find gourmet burgers and traditional Hungarian sausages. Perfect for an affordable and tasty meal while exploring the city.
Features:
- Food trucks with Hungarian and international street food
- Affordable with many options
- Casual dining in a lively area
- Vegan and vegetarian options
Belvárosi Disznótoros
- Address: 1075 Budapest, Király utca 1d
- Hours: Monday - Wednesday, 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM; Thursday, 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM; Friday, 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM; Saturday, 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM; Sunday, 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM
- Price: $
- Specialty: Smoked meats, Hungarian sausages
For real Hungarian street food, go to Belvárosi Disznótoros. They specialize in smoked meats and sauerkraut, it’s the real deal. The grilled sausages are delicious.
Features:
- Casual street food experience
- Perfect for a quick bite while sightseeing
- Large portions for affordable prices
- Great for meat lovers
Romantic Restaurants in Budapest
For a romantic night out in Budapest, there’s nothing better than a restaurant with great food and atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a cozy spot to dine, these restaurants won’t disappoint.
Leo Rooftop
- Address: 1013 Budapest, Clark Ádám tér 1
- Hours: Monday - Sunday, 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Price: $$$$
- Specialty: Mediterranean-inspired dishes, cocktails
On top of Hotel Clark, Leo Rooftop has stunning views of the Danube and Buda Castle. It’s the perfect setting for a romantic evening with a menu that combines Mediterranean flavors with Hungarian influences. The rooftop cocktails are great for sipping while taking in the view.
Features:
- Panoramic views of the Danube River
- Elegant, modern ambiance
- Great for sunset cocktails and dinner dates
- Mediterranean and Hungarian dishes
Kiosk
- Address: 1056 Budapest, Március 15. tér 4
- Hours: Sunday - Wednesday, 12:00 PM - 11:00 PM; Thursday - Friday, 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM; Saturday, 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
- Price: $$$
- Specialty: International cuisine, Hungarian specialties
By the river, Kiosk has a modern and chic atmosphere perfect for couples. With a menu that features both Hungarian and international dishes, you can enjoy a leisurely dinner with a view of the Danube.
Features:
- Stylish modern decor with a riverfront view
- International and Hungarian fusion menu
- Romantic atmosphere for date nights
- Spacious outdoor terrace for warmer months
Mazel Tov
- Address: 1073 Budapest, Akácfa utca 47
- Hours: Friday - Monday, 9:30 AM - 12:00 AM; Tuesday - Thursday, 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
- Price: $$$
- Specialty: Middle Eastern dishes, Mediterranean flavors
In the Jewish Quarter, Mazel Tov has a warm and cozy atmosphere for a romantic dinner. Middle Eastern-inspired dishes like lamb kebabs and hummus are perfect for sharing with your partner.
Features:
- Intimate setting
- Modern Middle Eastern cuisine
- Sharing plates with your partner
- Vegan and vegetarian options
Budapest has a lot of different culinary options to suit every taste and preference. From Michelin starred fine dining at Borkonyha Winekitchen and Costes Downtown to traditional Hungarian comfort food at Rosenstein and Gettó Gulyás the city combines local with international. If you’re looking for a quick bite the street food scene in the Jewish Quarter has lángos and sausages at Szimpla Kert and Belvárosi Disznótoros. Whether you want a luxurious dinner, authentic Hungarian food or a romantic dinner with a view, Budapest has the place for you to have a great meal.