cheap eats

Belvárosi Disznótoros

A traditional Hungarian restaurant located in the heart of Budapest. The name “Disznótoros” translates to “pig slaughter” in English, and it refers to a traditional Hungarian feast that celebrates the butchering of pigs in the winter months. During a Disznótoros event, various pork-based dishes and sausages are prepared and enjoyed.

As seen on Anthony Bourdains visit to Budapest

What to eat: sausages (liver, blood), traditional meat dishes, fried pork

If Cafe

A great hole in the wall jazz club in one of the restaurant quarters of Budapest with concerts every night and great cuisine!

Bors Gasztrobár

Definitely visit this place! Specializing in gourmet sandwiches, often referred to as “soups in bread,” where a variety of fillings and ingredients are enclosed within a freshly baked baguette or bread roll. The menu features a diverse range of sandwiches, both meat-based and vegetarian, showcasing unique flavors and combinations that cater to different tastes and preferences.

Known for its reasonable prices, making it an excellent choice for those looking for tasty, budget-friendly options in Budapest.

It’s a must-visit for food enthusiasts looking to enjoy a quick and satisfying meal with a gourmet twist.

Arán Bakery and Artizán Bakery

Two of our favourite bakeries in Budapest, they offer a wide range of unique pastries and excellent coffee. Ideal place for a quick breakfast!

Frici Papa & Kisharang Étkezde

If you are looking for a truly local, no-frills Hungarian restaurant, do yourself a favour and go to Frici Papa!
It is one of the last remaining eateries in Budapest, serving Hungarian classics at extremely reasonable prices (even by local standards).
Because the word got out, lots of tourists visit this place as well nowadays, but trust us, it’s worth the wait!

Kisharang Étkezde is a true gem in the heart of Budapest, a family-run restaurant with a very friendly service and hearty traditional food. Great place if you’re around the St. Stephen’s Basilica!

Retro Lángos Budapest

Lángos is a beloved Hungarian dish that consists of deep-fried dough, typically oval or round in shape. It’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Traditionally, lángos is topped with a variety of savory ingredients, with sour cream and grated cheese being the most common. Other toppings can include garlic, ham, sausages, and more.

Lángos is a beloved Hungarian comfort food, and Retro Lángos is often well-received by locals and tourists alike for its tasty renditions of this classic dish of which they have the largest variety.

Depending on the location and time of day, you may encounter lines or crowds at their stand, especially during peak dining hours.

What to eat: cheese-sour cream lángos, Hungarian-style lángos

Pichler Chimney Cake & Gelato

The chimney cake (kürtőskalács in Hungarian) is one of the most popular street food dishes of Hungary originating from Székelyföld in Transylvania. It is truly a must-try while visiting Budapest! The chimney cakes at Pichler are of excellent quality and always freshly made.

Pizza Manufaktúra & Bamba Marha

If you’re less adventurous, had enough of goulash, or just simply want to have some great comfort food at a reasonable price, give these places a try!

Pizza Manufaktúra serves some of the best pizzas in Budapest, a true favourite of locals.

Bamba Marha is a solid local burger chain which serves great quality burgers at fair prices. With 10 locations in Budapest, you can be sure that you’re always close to one of them.