The 10 Best Cultural Restaurants In Budapest
Filled with history and culture, Budapest also has also lot to offer when it comes to its food scene. The recent restaurant boom and new culinary influences from overseas are continuously shaping the city’s gastronomic scenery, resulting in remarkably eclectic options from markets to traditional inns to Michelin-starred spots. We bring you a curated roundup of the ten best cultural restaurants in Budapest.
Nobu Budapest
The first Nobu restaurant was opened in New York City in 1994; since then, it has become a Japanese culinary empire. In 2010 it opened its first branch in Central Europe with Nobu Budapest. Located in the luxurious Kempinsky Hotel, if you’re looking for an upscale dining option with unquestionable culinary credentials, Nobu is the perfect choice. The avant-garde Japanese establishment serves contemporary, redesigned Japanese specialties and alongside the sushi bar, guests can enjoy the unmissable signature dishes of creator and Chef Nobuyuki Matsuhisa. The interior is elegantly chic just like all the Nobu venues, with a design by the Rockwell Group, who are known for their ability to create an impeccable atmosphere.
Alexandra Bookcafe
Cafe, European
Apacuka Restaurant, Bar, Cafeteria
Apacuka is a space with style, unique ideas, and a sense of humor. Artistically minded and displaying contemporary sculptures to create an inspiring, creative atmosphere, the restaurant consists of four rooms and an open terrace. Apacuka serves premium Hungarian-French cuisine and a daily menu at pocket-friendly prices, making it an excellent choice for all occasions and for all tastes. With its service praised citywide, free WiFi, and frequent exhibitions and fashion shows, Apacuka is true melting pot for culture and food lovers.
Apacuka, Nagymezo u. 54-56, Budapest, Hungary, +36 20 366 4272
Costes Restaurant
At a historical turning point in 2010, Costes became the first Michelin-stared restaurant in Budapest. Set in an old building in the heart of the city, the restaurant’s interior breathes sophistication, offering a high-end atmosphere where guests are taken care of from the moment they arrive. The menu consists of modern Hungarian and international dishes, among which the highlighted specialties are undoubtedly the roasted quail stuffed with duck liver, baby spinach and cauliflower purée and the dessert plate. Choose from the four to seven-course tasting menus or opt for any of the house specialties. Mouth-watering tastes are guaranteed by Portuguese Head Chef Miguel Rocha Vieira, who also ensures that each dish leaves the kitchen as a small piece of art. In addition to the innovative plates and upscale service, an outstanding selection of over 320 bottles will be enjoyed by all wine enthusiasts.
Costes Restaurant, Ráday utca 4, Budapest, Hungary, +36 1 219 0696
Gundel
Laci!Konyha!
‘Lacikonyha’ is a 15th century Hungarian expression used to describe a restaurant. Though it once referred to a cheap, small, temporary locale, Budapest’s culinary gem, Laci!Konyha! is a contemporary boutique restaurant that serves food made from traditional Hungarian ingredients in a modern, innovative way. With swing chairs and quirky, idiosyncratic decor on the walls, Laci’s interior is both cozy and original. A small spot off the tourist track, Laci!Konyha! delights with its fresh and seasonally changing menu of bistro-style treats, as well as a more refined, tasting menu for the real gourmet.
Laci!Konyha!, Hegedűs Gyula u. 56., Budapest, Hungary, + 36 70 370 7475
Onyx
Restaurant, Contemporary, European
Ever since its launch in April 2007, Onyx Restaurant has been faithful to its ethos of aiming to be an internationally acclaimed fine dining venue. Over the last decade, Executive Chef Szabina Szulló, Sous-Chef Tamás Széll and the rest of the team have been at work to create a high-end version of traditional and modern Hungarian cuisine. Every ingredient undergoes a strict selection process to ensure its richness of flavor; and just like the food, the staff is carefully selected, then trained in line with the Onyx philosophy. Seen by many as one of Budapest’s best restaurants, Onyx is centrally located on Vörösmarty Square and is now the second restaurant in town awarded with a Michelin star.
Robinson Restaurant
Nestled among Budapest’s landmark buildings, Robinson Restaurant is located on the lake of Városliget just a few steps from the famous Hero’s Square and the Museum of Fine Arts. Thanks to its picturesque setting and stunning views all year long, Robinson is justly named among the most romantic restaurants in town. Opened in 1989, the restaurant is loved by visitors, including a host of prominent names such as Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Robert Redford, David Copperfield, or Larry Hagman. A Mediterranean milieu, live Latin guitar music, an open-air terrace and a wide choice of delectable dishes await patrons. The menu suggests Hungarian-Mediterranean influences, offering mouth-watering specialties from the timeless kitchen of Robinson, accompanied by an excellent bottle selection from local wineries.
Robinson Restaurant, Városligeti tó, Budapest, Hungary, +36 1 422 0222
Százéves Étterem
Restaurant, Hungarian
Great Market Hall
Market, Hungarian