Gólya Presszó Budapest

This is not an ordinary bar. This is an open community space that supports diversity, creativity, equity, human rights and is a safe and inclusive space. The whole idea of such a place emerged after student protests against the commercialization of education in Hungary in 2012. First, a co-op emerged and they needed space where they could keep up with their active social work and build a community with other groups and locals. The space first opened in a different location in the outer 8th district but due to its ongoing gentrification, they moved to the current space a bit further from the center but still easily accessible. I’ve been hanging out there with friends from the very beginning, and some of those friends were also involved in the daily life of Gólya.

Apart from great drinks and food (vegan options included), the space has a stage for performances and a rooftop terrace in the DIY style. Be sure to check their program, as they have a lot of fun activities ranging from concerts, queer drag shows, and performances to board game evenings and conferences. And the best part? You can easily meet locals and mingle with the crowd.

Fun fact: The name Gólya (stork) is not random, as storks are what 1st-year students are called in Hungary, as they are believed to be brought by a stork as newborn babies.