Insiders Guide: Budapest

DO

A morning walk through the Fisherman’s Bastion. Less tourists and fabulous views.

Evening stroll trough the Castle District is mysterious and moody.

Central Market is a treat. You will find wonderful Hungarian food stuffs on the ground floor, while on the first floor offers a wide variety of traditional Hungarian arts and crafts. Some wonderful embroidery pieces and wood work are on colourful display. Back on the ground floor it is a must to pick up some traditional Hungarian paprika from one of the colourful food stalls, or perhaps sample the wide variety of strudels, both sweet and savory. (I had the sour cherry and apple.)

Hungarian Crafts found at the Central Market

DRINK

Not to be missed is the stunning art nouveau styled Gresham Palace. The sophisticated bar inside this now Four Seasons Hotel offers an excellent Hungarian themed cocktail menu, among them two locally inspired martinis. The Elderflower Martini made with local acacia honey, elderflower, and Hungarian balsamic vinegar is a unique and very enjoyable surprise. Served with a sweet biscuit no less and in a polka dot martini glass feels like something from Alice in Wonderland at the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and is a whimsical delight.

Budapest’s answer to the Grand Cafe can be found at Gerbeaud on the central square of Vörösmarty tér. Wonderful chocolates and pastries and a perfect place to rest one’s feet. 

Elderflower Martini at the Four Seasons Bar, Gresham Palace

DINE

For a cozy, upscale modern take on modern Hungarian cuisine, 21 A Magyar in the Castle District is a perfect spot. The Chicken Paprikash with Dumplings was one of the best dishes I sampled on the trip.
(H-1014 Budapest, Fortuna utca 21, Hungary)

Pilvax Bisztro in Pest is casual and unassuming, serving home style traditional Hungarian cooking.  Lasco is a specialty here.
(1052 Budapest, Pilvax köz 1, Hungary)

Alabardos Etterem serves sophisticated Hungarian fare in elegant surroundings. A very good wine list showcasing some of Hungary’s tops wines. (1014 Budapest, Országház St 2, Hungary)

Chocolate Dessert at Alabardos Etterem

I loved my time in Budapest and these are my personal recommendations based on my experiences, and my eating and drinking at all the places listed. The restaurants were very good, and a foodie’s delight.