Like most cosmopolitan cities, Budapest offers a wide variety of cuisines and restaurant settings. While traditional Hungarian food may be what you’re hankering for, you can also find other ethnic cuisines just as easily when dining out in Budapest.
Follow the Locals
The best areas to look for tastiest fare and the most reasonable prices are off the main drag—away from the major tourist centers or commercial areas. Tourist areas often hire wait staff with at least a rudimentary knowledge of English, so you may find communication more difficult in eateries frequented by locals when dining out in Budapest. However, your efforts will be well worth it, as the locals always know best.
Look for the Menu--Outside
It is a practice of Hungarian restaurants to post a menu outside, and often there will be a copy of the menu in English displayed as well. This will allow you to check the prices—but be wary; if no prices are listed it is wise to go elsewhere, no matter how good the dishes look!
Vegetarian Fare
Vegetarians need not worry about going hungry in Hungary. While strictly vegetarian restaurants are not easily found in Budapest, many Hungarian dishes are meatless by nature. Pastas and pancakes accompanied by sauces, as well as vegetable dishes, can be found on many Hungarian cuisine menus. Keep in mind that ethnic restaurants may offer a variety of vegetarian dishes, so special diet needs are sure to be met when traveling in this city.
Share a Table
Other guests may join your table when you are dining out in Budapest, especially at peak dining times. This is common in Hungary. At first it may be a bit uncomfortable, but getting used to this practice can teach you a lot about Hungarians and their culture. It is also a great way to find out what the best dishes at a particular restaurant are!
If you love food, be bold and go local. You’ll see more of the real Hungary and save a few dollars too!
