DINING ON A BUDGET IN BUDAPEST

Budapest is a city of rich history and vibrant culture, and it’s also a fantastic place to savor a variety of delicious dishes without overspending. From traditional Hungarian cuisine to international street food, the city offers a diverse culinary experience for budget-conscious travelers. Here’s how to enjoy affordable dining while exploring the stunning Hungarian capital and their addresses.

Being Wallet-friendly:

Hungarian Street Food: Budapest’s street food scene is bustling with mouthwatering options. Try classic Hungarian treats like lángos (deep-fried dough) or kürtőskalács (chimney cake) from street vendors for a taste of local flavors.

Traditional Hungarian Restaurants (Étkezde): Look for small, local eateries known as “étkezde,” which serve authentic Hungarian dishes at budget-friendly prices. Try comforting options like goulash, chicken paprikash, and stuffed peppers.

Central Market Hall: Visit the Central Market Hall (Nagyvásárcsarnok) to explore a wide range of food stalls. You can enjoy delicious sausages, lángos, or buy fresh produce for a picnic along the Danube.

Cafés and Bakeries: Budapest is famous for its coffee culture. Enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry at historic cafes like Gerbeaud or New York Café without spending a fortune.

Budget-Friendly Restaurants: Seek out local restaurants that offer daily lunch menus at discounted prices. These menus typically include a soup, main course, and a drink, allowing you to sample a variety of Hungarian dishes.

Kebab Stands: Budapest’s kebab stands offer tasty and affordable options for a quick meal. Try a döner kebab or falafel wrap, which is a popular choice among locals and visitors.

Asian Cuisine: Budapest has a growing Asian food scene, where you can enjoy dishes like pho, sushi, and curry at budget-friendly prices. District VII (the Jewish Quarter) is known for its diverse international cuisine.

Food Trucks: Keep an eye out for food trucks scattered around the city, offering gourmet burgers, hot dogs, and more.

Parks and Picnics: Buy fresh produce and snacks from local markets or supermarkets and have a picnic in one of Budapest’s beautiful parks, such as Margaret Island or City Park.

Budget-Friendly Eateries: Explore neighborhoods like the Jewish Quarter and Újlipótváros for budget-friendly eateries that cater to locals and offer more economical prices.

Restaurants/Bars:

1. Karaván Street Food Court:

Overview: Karaván is a bustling food court in the Jewish Quarter, offering a variety of street food options. You’ll find burgers, langos, Mexican dishes, and more in a vibrant atmosphere.
Average Price: €5-10 per person.
Website: Karaván Street Food Court
Address: Kazinczy utca 18, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the Jewish Quarter, a short walk from Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Try the “Langos,” a deep-fried dough with various toppings.

2. Szimpla Kert:

Overview: Szimpla Kert is one of Budapest’s famous ruin bars, and it features a unique and budget-friendly menu. This iconic spot offers snacks, sandwiches, and a diverse drink selection.
Average Price: €5-12 per person.
Website: Szimpla Kert
Address: Kazinczy utca 14, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the Jewish Quarter, close to Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Enjoy the “Balkan Platter” or the “Vegan Falafel Wrap.”

3. Bors GasztroBár:

Overview: Bors GasztroBár is a tiny sandwich shop with a big reputation for creative and budget-friendly sandwiches. They offer a variety of unique fillings and flavors.
Average Price: €5-8 per person.
Website: Bors GasztroBár
Address: Kazinczy utca 10, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the Jewish Quarter, a short walk from Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Try the “Chickpea Patty Sandwich.”

4. Belvárosi Disznótoros:

Overview: Belvárosi Disznótoros is a traditional Hungarian eatery that offers a taste of local flavors at reasonable prices. It’s known for its hearty Hungarian dishes.
Average Price: €10-15 per person.
Website: Belvárosi Disznótoros
Address: Király utca 1, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the city center, close to Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Taste the “Hungarian Goulash Soup.”

5. Koleves:

Overview: Koleves is a charming restaurant offering a daily lunch menu and a variety of Hungarian and international dishes. The courtyard setting adds to the dining experience.
Average Price: €10-15 per person.
Website: Koleves
Address: Kazinczy utca 41, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the Jewish Quarter, a short walk from Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Try the “Hungarian Pork Stew.”

6. Retro Büfé:

Overview: Retro Büfé is a nostalgic eatery serving Hungarian comfort food in a retro setting. It’s a small place but offers an authentic experience.
Average Price: €5-10 per person.
Website: N/A
Address: Nagykörút 19, 1052 Budapest.
How to Get There: Situated in the city center, close to Kálvin tér metro station.
Suggested Dish: Enjoy the “Stuffed Peppers.”

7. Lucky 7 Burgers & More:

Overview: Lucky 7 is a burger joint offering a variety of creative burgers, including vegetarian options. It’s a casual and budget-friendly spot.
Average Price: €8-12 per person.
Website: Lucky 7 Burgers & More
Address: Wesselényi utca 13, 1077 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the Jewish Quarter, a short walk from Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Try the “Lucky 7 Classic Burger.”

8. Frici Papa Kifőzde:

Overview: Frici Papa Kifőzde is a no-frills Hungarian eatery serving affordable, home-style dishes in a welcoming atmosphere.
Average Price: €5-10 per person.
Website: N/A
Address: Nagykörút 27, 1052 Budapest.
How to Get There: Situated in the city center, close to Kálvin tér metro station.
Suggested Dish: Taste the “Chicken Paprikash.”

9. Borsodi Sorozo:

Overview: Borsodi Sorozo is a local pub offering a selection of beers and affordable Hungarian pub food. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
Average Price: €8-12 per person.
Website: N/A
Address: Király utca 15, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Located in the Jewish Quarter, a short walk from Deák Ferenc Square.
Suggested Dish: Try the “Pörkölt,” a Hungarian stew.

10. Govinda Vegetarian Restaurant:

Overview: Govinda is a budget-friendly vegetarian restaurant offering a variety of international and Indian-inspired dishes. It’s perfect for those seeking vegetarian and vegan options.
Average Price: €8-12 per person.
Website: Govinda Vegetarian Restaurant
Address: Károly krt. 6, 1075 Budapest.
How to Get There: Situated in the city center, close to Astoria metro station.
Suggested Dish: Enjoy the “Vegetarian Thali.”