I imagine a Matrioska. Here’s one of Budapest’s biggest districts, number 8, which hosts a gorgeous portion named “The Palace Quarter” (Palota Negyed). Within this up-and-coming area flooded with students and artsy locations, there’s a cute street with a hard-to-pronounce name. Every time I give a tour of the area, guests spontaneously stop to take pictures.
Let’s get back inside the Matrioska, to its core. Where it lays a yellow courtyard and garden covered with ivy, decorated by baroque statues and covered by a cobblestone pavement, resides the Chamber of Architects.
Since 1954 the headquarters of the Association of Hungarian Architects, this structure, called Almássy Palace, was built in 1877 and designed by Antal Gottgéb. It's described as “an open house” where different branches of art can meet architecture & where architects can meet the society - they also organize expositions.
In the place of a former canteen, in 2022 a tapas bar opened, with the cute name of Arquitecto Pitpit, recalling the birds that often chirp in this leafy court. There is quite a buzz around this place! Benedict Cumberbatch had dinner here, and Johnny Deep tried to do the same, but the location was reserved for a private event, a wedding. Regrettably, the owners had to deny Johnny a table, but he took it with sportsmanship and joined the party for a group photo.
There is a guest who is always there: Ödön Lechner (1845-1914) in a relief dedicated to him as the founder of the Hungarian Art Nouveau style (Secession).
Find your way with 171 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
At this spot, you may find the events of some of the well-known members of the local underground scene playing some funky sets or having an exhibition.
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Muzikum Bisztró, near the National Museum, serves a great 2-3 course lunch menu affordably.
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Their gin-based signature cocktail is my absolute number one. It's called “Ramos Gin Fizz” and it’s pure magic in a glass. It never, ever disappoints.
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I love starting my day here with my personal favorite, the "Don Corleone" bagel. They offer a wide selection of bagel types, some served hot & others cold.
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Ligeti Bolt, a zero-waste pioneer in Budapest, offers grains, snacks, and more for refill. Shop eco-friendly, bring your jars, and embrace a conscious lifestyle!
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The "Hungarian Treasury" in Budapest is a building I show to all my guests. Its secessionist art nouveau style is reminiscent of Antoni Gaudí...
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The true star of Vivina’s brunch menu is the porridge—comforting, nourishing, and served with fresh berries and toasted nuts, it’s one of the best porridges in town!
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"Lion's Locker" in Budapest is a cute family-run cafe where I can stay all day. The staff is all wonderful - and they know how to make almond milk foam!
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"Arán Bakery Budapest" fuels my dreams with sourdough bread like my grandmother made it and delicious cinnamon rolls...
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"Sport Bisztró" in Budapest is a pleasantly familiar, well-oiled haunt that sticks to the proverb 'healthy mind in a healthy body!' Great sports bar, too.
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"Nos a Hely" is a pop-up vintage shop in Hungary - they have a carefully curated selection of vintage porcelain and other local items. Great for gifts!
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171 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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