This page of Budapest travel guide was archived in 2011-2012. The details mentioned here might have changed. Read our regularly updated Budapest Blog to know what to see, where to eat and what to do in Budapest.
Fecske is an arty café/bar which we consider a good alternative to posh restaurants and low-life drinking holes as it is somewhere in the middle between both. Here you can have good food at reasonable prices (we recommend duck breast with rice and seeds) or enjoy booze night with your buddies in homely atmosphere. They have music programs on some weekends.
VIII. Baross utca 10
Tel: 215 2738
Open:
Mon-Fri 09:00-01:00
Sat-Sun 11:00-01:00
Nightclub, art gallery, music lounge, outdoor movie theater. This space under the square in the heart of Budapest offers variety of events from rock to folk concerts, from art and theatrical performances to modern dance shows. Prices depend on the event.
V. Erzsébet tér
Csendes (Silent) is the new kid on the block that takes its name from the grand restaurant that used to be in this space many years ago.
In addition to the name the place preserved also two imposing columns that are the focus of this abundantly decorated space. Indeed, you may spent hours just examining all the interior details of the bar, big and small, the objects and pieces of arts covering the walls and hanging from the ceiling.
Recently opened Jelen, a nice addition to the Budapest nightclub and bar scene, is quickly gaining popularity among both locals and travelers by word of mouth alone.
This spacious bar subtly decorated with arty posters opens every day at 4 pm, just when you are almost done with your job and errands and ready to have a pint.
Sirály is a three-level bar, library, book-store, theater and movie with friendly visitors, attentive bartenders and atmosphere of creativity.
VII. Király utca 50
CLOSED. This small bar can be regarded as the meeting point for expats, since there is always a crowd of them with fewer arty-type locals. The bartenders are very friendly and attentive. Bar's specialty is cocain coctail.
VII. Nagydiófa utca 26
Small and cosy bar located opposite the Synagogue.
VII. Dohány utca 1c
Bambi is one of the oldest watering holes in Budapest. It was very popular in socialistic times, and it still is. Today you meet in Bambi the sons and daughters of those who used to drink here in the 70s, and the old men playing domino. The place is also known for its nutritious breakfasts, which are authentic Hungarian sandwiches.
II. Frankel Leó út, 2
Drinks, music, films, cartoons.
IX. Erkel utca 14
Contemporary arts center: theater, gallery, exhibition and concert hall, bar.
IX. Liliom utca 41