Hungarian food is hearty, cheap and perfect fuel for a stag weekend – and the drinks are strong. Here is what to order in Budapest, from the morning-after goulash to the shot you will regret.
Hungarian food and drink at a glance
1897
the Great Market Hall opened
40%
Unicum, a herbal liqueur
40+
herbs and spices in Unicum
2002
Tokaj wine region became UNESCO-listed
~€3
a beer in a restaurant
What to eat
🍲 Goulash (gulyás)
In Hungary goulash is a soup – paprika, beef and potatoes. The best hangover cure.
🫓 Lángos
Deep-fried dough with sour cream and cheese – the classic late-night snack.
🥐 Chimney cake
Kürtőskalács – a sweet spiral cake baked over coals.
🌶️ Paprika everything
Chicken paprikash, sausages and stews – Hungarian food is all about paprika.
🍔 Street food
Karaván on Kazinczy utca, next to Szimpla Kert, is a street-food yard in the middle of the bars.
What to drink
The shot
Pálinka
Strong Hungarian fruit brandy – apricot, plum or pear. Sip it, or pay for it later.
The bitter one
Unicum
Zwack’s herbal liqueur, 40% and made with more than 40 herbs and spices.
The easy one
Fröccs
Wine mixed with soda water – the Budapest summer drink.
Taste it with us
FAQ
What is the most famous Hungarian dish?
Goulash (gulyás) – in Hungary it is a paprika beef soup, not a stew.
What is pálinka?
A strong Hungarian fruit brandy, usually apricot, plum or pear. It is a Hungarian speciality with a protected name.
Is the Great Market Hall open on Sundays?
Yes, with shorter hours. It is the classic place to try lángos and buy paprika.
Can we do a beer tasting?
Yes – our private beer tasting introduces your group to Hungarian craft beers in the city centre.
