The Best Restaurants in District V, Budapest

A stylish restaurant just a stone’s throw from the Danube, this contemporary eatery serves up fine dining in a relaxed environment. Dishes are creative and well thought out, with young head chef Janos Mizsei’s menu inspired by Scandinavian cuisine as well as modern Hungarian flavours. A six-course tasting menu allows diners to experience the restaurant’s finest dishes, while there’s also an à la carte option and a more affordable lunch menu, which changes on a daily basis. The friendly and professional staff are happy to help, and the atmosphere is welcoming and unpretentious, making this a great place to enjoy a special meal in Budapest.

One of Budapest’s most popular restaurants (booking is essential), Zeller is a family-run establishment that takes pride in offering locally sourced ingredients and delicious Hungarian cuisine. Formerly located in a small cellar-style eatery slightly off the beaten path, the restaurant recently moved to a light, bright and more sizeable space in downtown Budapest. Dishes toe the line between casual and fine dining, with home-style cooking given a sophisticated update. High standards, mouth-watering flavours and friendly service are all to be expected, and those lucky enough to get a table are unlikely to be disappointed.

Tip: Can’t get a table in the evening? The restaurant is also open at lunch, and reservations are easier to come by.

One of four restaurants in Budapest to hold a coveted Michelin star, the little sister of popular fine dining restaurant Costes is a little more relaxed and friendly on the wallet – but no less impressive when it comes to the food! Tasting menus ranging from four to six courses are available, as well as an à la carte selection. The open kitchen allows diners to watch the chefs at work, while the stylish, green leaf adorned restaurant is the perfect setting for an array of occasions. There’s also a more relaxed Lobby Menu, featuring more classic options such as salads and grill dishes.

With a central location, casual atmosphere and a menu featuring creative Hungarian cuisine with a modern twist, Borkonyha is one of the best fine dining restaurants in Budapest. A little more relaxed than its fellow Michelin-star holders, the warm and inviting interior welcomes diners and sets the scene for a culinary adventure to remember. Alongside the well thought out menu, there’s also an extensive local wine list featuring varieties from vineyards across the country, including sweet dessert wine Tokaji Aszú – a must-try at the end of your meal!

For authentic Hungarian cuisine, look no further: this lively eatery not far from Liberty Square boasts a traditional menu and a rustic interior for a truly local experience. Classic dishes such as goulash, paprikash and lángos are all on offer, while live music can be enjoyed on a daily basis. The restaurant’s reputation for delicious food, combined with its central location, mean it can get very busy – so booking ahead is essential.

Comme Chez Soi translates to ‘Like Home’, and this cosy restaurant certainly makes diners feel welcome thanks to the friendly staff and inviting ambiance. With a reputation for some of the best Italian food in Budapest, it has a lot to live up to – and fortunately it doesn’t disappoint! A wide selection of pasta, seafood dishes, pizzas and more are all on the menu, while the restaurant’s tiramisu is unrivaled.

For all-out luxury, Onyx is one of District V‘s most prestigious addresses. Having gained a Michelin Star in 2011, the restaurant focuses on tasting menus both at lunch and dinner, ranging from three to eight courses. In the evening, the Hungarian evolution menu is a harmony of traditional flavours combined with modern techniques, for an updated spin on authentic local cuisine; there’s also a chef’s menu of eight courses. The richly decorated interior lends an air of opulence, while the food is refined and sophisticated.

Once a university theatre, today this large and airy building is home to Kiosk, a spacious restaurant and bar serving meals from lunch until late. Not far from the Danube and the imposing Elizabeth Bridge, it’s a popular spot for a long lunch (there’s a daily menu from Monday to Friday), with a largely Hungarian menu. A terrace overlooking the river welcomes visitors on sun-drenched days, while the exposed brick walls and huge windows add an urban edge to the interior.