Budapest, the capital of Hungary, is a beautiful and lively city full of history, art and delicious food. Unexpectedly loved the coffee culture here.
From traditional coffeehouses with chandeliers and velvet chairs to small cozy cafés with modern art and quiet corners Budapest has something for every coffee lover. Here are some of the best places where you can enjoy coffee in Budapest along with my personal experiences. Enjoy Coffee in Budapest, Hungary
1. Gerbeaud Café
Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, 1051 Budapest, Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
What They Serve: Classic Hungarian coffee, cakes, hot chocolate, breakfast platters, sandwiches
Services: Elegant indoor seating, outdoor terrace, free Wi-Fi, accepts card and cash
Experience:
Best Cafe in Budapest . Walking into Gerbeaud Café felt like stepping back in time. The grand lights the polished wood and the soft music made me feel like I was in an old movie. It was full of in history.
I ordered a cappuccino and their famous Dobos Torte a Hungarian cake with layers of sponge and chocolate cream topped with caramel. Creamy smooth cappuccino with perfect bitter balance. The cake was rich and sweet but not too heavy.
WLoved sitting by window, watching people pass. I imagined famous writers and artists who once came here to relax and talk about life. Gerbeaud Café made me feel like I was part of Budapest’s story.
2. Espresso Embassy
Location: Arany János u. 15, 1051 Budapest, Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
What They Serve: Speciality coffee, espresso, drip coffee, vegan cakes, sandwiches
Services: Minimalist indoor seating, fast service, card payments, take-away available
Experience:
Espresso Embassy was a place my Hungarian friend recommended. “They have the best coffee in town,” she said. And she was right.
The café looked simple with plain walls and wooden tables but the smell of fresh coffee was amazing. I ordered a drip coffee which is made slowly and carefully to bring out the flavor. It was fruity a little tangy and had no bitter aftertaste.
I also tried a vegan chocolate cake that was soft and not too sweet. It surprised me how good it tasted even without milk or eggs. I sat at the window bar, watching cyclists pass by, feeling like a local. It’s a great place if you love real high-quality coffee.
3. New York Café
Location: Erzsébet krt. 9-11, 1073 Budapest, Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
What They Serve: Traditional Hungarian pastries, rich coffee, full breakfast and dinner menus
Services: Luxurious interior, live piano music, elegant seating, card payments accepted
Experience:
New York Café is known as “the most beautiful café in the world” – and once I entered, I understood why. Golden lights, marble columns, and huge mirrors made the café look like a palace. I almost didn’t believe I was in a coffee shop!
Ordered slow-brewed drip coffee, flavorful. The latte came in a tall glass warm and comforting. The cake was rich but light, and every bite was a mix of nutty and sweet.
It was not cheap but it was worth the experience. I stayed for an hour just looking around, listening to the piano and feeling amazed. If you want to enjoy coffee in a royal setting this is the place.
4. Madal Café
Location: Alkotmány u. 4, 1054 Budapest, Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 7:30 AM – 7:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
What They Serve: Third-wave coffee, flat white, herbal teas, cookies, energy balls
Services: Friendly staff, cozy indoor seating, fast Wi-Fi, accepts card and cash
Experience:
Madal Café felt like a peaceful corner in a busy city. It was modern and bright, with shelves of books and kind staff who smiled when they talked to me.
I tried a flat white which is like a strong latte with less milk, and an energy ball made with nuts and dates. The coffee had a deep flavor strong but smooth. The energy ball was small but packed with taste and gave me a boost without sugar.
I saw many students working on laptops and some tourists chatting in quiet voices. It was a perfect place to take a break think and enjoy a slow sip of coffee.
5. Fekete Café
Location: Múzeum krt. 5, 1088 Budapest, Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM
What They Serve: Espresso, flat whites, brunch dishes, granola, vegan muffins
Services: Indoor and courtyard seating, chill music, cashless payment
Experience:
Fekete Café was hidden behind a gate, like a secret garden. I walked in and saw a small courtyard with plants and wooden chairs it felt like a hidden gem.
I ordered a hot espresso and a vegan muffin with berries. The espresso was bold and sharp just how I like it in the morning. The muffin was soft and full of flavor without being too sugary.
There were only a few people around, mostly locals reading or chatting quietly. I loved the peaceful vibe and the feeling that I had found a secret spot in Budapest just for myself.
6. Budapest Baristas
Location: Múzeum krt. 15, 1053 Budapest, Hungary
Opening Hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
What They Serve: Specialty coffee, matcha, pastries, smoothies, sandwiches
Services: Trendy indoor space, fast service, eco-friendly cups, student-friendly
Experience:
Budapest Baristas was right across from a university, so it had a young and energetic vibe. Rainy afternoon, warm lights coffee welcomed me.
I ordered a matcha latte just to try something different. It came in a beautiful green color with foam on top. It was sweet and a bit grassy very refreshing. I also had a buttery croissant that was crispy and soft at the same time.
The café had good music playing in the background and friendly staff who chatted in English. I felt comfortable and happy as if I could stay there for hours.
Conclusion
Every time I sat with a warm cup in my hands, I felt closer to the city. Coffee here is not just a drink it’s an experience. It’s about slowing down, noticing the details and enjoying the moment.
Next Budapest visit enjoy coffee. You might find more than just a good drink you might discover a new favorite place a peaceful moment or even a sweet memory that stays with you long after the cup is empty.
FAQs
Q1: What are the best cafés to visit in Budapest?
A1: Some top cafés include New York Café, Espresso Embassy, Madal Café, Gerbeaud Café, and Cirkusz Café. Each offers a unique atmosphere and great coffee.
Q2: Is Budapest known for its coffee culture?
A2: Yes! Budapest has a rich coffeehouse tradition dating back to the 1800s. Today, the city blends historic charm with modern specialty coffee.
Q3: What types of coffee can I try in Budapest?
A3: You can enjoy espresso, cappuccino, café latte, cortado, and traditional Hungarian coffee. Many cafés also offer pour-over and cold brew options.
Q4: Are there any coffee places with a view?
A4: Yes! Try cafés near Fisherman’s Bastion, Gellért Hill, or the Danube promenade for beautiful views while you sip your coffee.
Q5: Are Budapest cafés expensive?
A5: Not really. Prices vary, but you can usually get a high-quality coffee for 600–1,200 HUF (₹150–₹300). Historic or luxury cafés may cost more.
Q6: Do Budapest cafés offer food too?
A6: Most do! You’ll find pastries, cakes like Dobos torte, sandwiches, and brunch items. Many cafés serve Hungarian desserts with coffee.
Q7: Can I find vegan or dairy-free options?
A7: Yes. Many modern cafés offer plant-based milk (almond, oat, soy) and vegan treats.
Q8: Is tipping expected in Budapest cafés?
A8: Tipping around 10% is appreciated if service is good. Some places include service charge, so check your bill.
