The Best Brunch in Budapest: 15+ Amazing Places to Start Your Day

Where to find the best Budapest brunch places

Love brunch? Budapest has you sorted, regardless of whether you’re visiting for a weekend away, or a longer trip. Our best breakfast in Budapest guide details our favourite haunts, each personally selected for your enjoyment.




We love brunch. So much so that it’s perhaps our favourite meal of the day. There’s nothing better than rolling into your favourite cafe at 10 am, ready to tuck into a rich, creamy coffee, and a delicious brunch extravaganza.

It doesn’t matter if it’s savoury or sweet, healthy or gluttonous; a great brunch always sets the tone for a perfect day ahead - which in the case of a visit to Budapest, a day of exploring everything this amazing city has to offer.

As ex-pats who masquerade as locals in the city (we’ve spent over two years here now, that counts right?!), we’ve spent the last few years exploring each and every one of Budapest’s brunch hotspots.

Its been tough work, obviously (written with a large grin), but what we’ve found is an evolving culinary landscape in which some players are challenging trends using local ingredients to push boundaries, while others do the brunch staples, think eggs benedict, scrambled eggs, and avocado toast, very well.

But what exactly makes a great brunch? Here at The Common Wanderer, we believe it’s all about the flavours, the freshness and of course, a little creative flair. Add in quality coffee, and some lovely service and you’ve almost nailed it. And sometimes, the price matters, too.

Thankfully, Budapest has a broad range of good quality brunch options, and an exceptional level of quality bakeries, meaning you’re in for a treat if you love brunch as much as us.

So if you’re visiting Budapest for a long weekend, or longer trip (or maybe even embracing ex-pat life here like us), this guide to the best breakfast in Budapest is for you.

*Note: the Budapest restaurant scene is always changing, so let us know if you’ve found any closures or changes to the Budapest brunch places listed below!

ps. Want to explore more of Budapest? Read our in-depth guides here | Szechenyi Baths, Gellert Thermal Baths, Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar, New York Cafe, and the best of Józsefváros, Budapest’s hipster 8th district

 
 

 

BEST BUDAPEST

BREAKFAST

Our favourite brunch | Portobello Coffee & Brunch

The classic brunch | Cirkusz Budapest

The underrated brunch | Home of Franziska

The best hungover brunch | Kaptafa

Coffee + Brunch | Dorado

 

BREAKFAST IN BUDAPEST | THE BRUNCH SCENE

If you come to Budapest expecting a Melbourne/Bali/Paris/London-quality brunch, you’re probably going to be a little disappointed. That’s because, overall, the scene here isn’t great. Well, at least it wasn’t.

The breakfast scene in Budapest is evolving quickly, and more and more quality brunch cafes have opened over the last few years.

However, the general creativity of more established brunch cities is lacking a little here - there are very few cafe’s pushing boundaries so expect the standard poached eggs, avocado toast, a smoothie bowl here and there, and not much else.

That being said, there are some really good brunch locations that take advantage of the brilliant local produce and traditional flavours to make some super-delicious brunch. Read more to find out.



DISCOVER THE BEST BREAKFAST IN BUDAPEST


PORTOBELLO COFFEE, BRUNCH AND WINE

Located right in the heart of the city, Portobello Coffee, Brunch and Wine is our favourite breakfast place in all of Budapest.

Owned by Martin and Regina, two Hungarian natives who have returned from years working in the hospitality industry abroad, Portobello stands head and shoulders above the rest of Budapest’s brunch options.

Unassuming from the outside, the interior is inviting, gorgeous and warm, like a light and airy wine cellar with high ceilings and a modern, scandi-vibe.

The menu is simple yet creative, using seasonal produce and well-thought ingredients to create effortlessly good food.

First up, the Turkish eggs (1,950 ft) served with garlic yoghurt, paprika butter and fresh herbs are a taste sensation, and brimming with fresh flavours and herbs. The miso mushrooms on toast with Muharrama, is also incredibly flavourful.

But the standout, somewhat surprisingly, is the eggs and greens (1,950 ft) - scrambled eggs served with raclette, kale, peanut rayu on fresh sourdough. There’s something about it that makes it so delicious.

To finish it off, the Melbourne-esque fluffy ricotta hotcakes (2,300 ft with seeds, pomegranate, ricotta, fruit are absolutely to die for.

They also offer great speciality coffee, sourced from The Barn in Berlin. Sustainable small cup culture is their jam, so the coffee is really good.

If you visit later in the day and are interested in something more... alcoholic, they also have a huge array of natural wines, sourced from all around the world.

If you’re here on Friday or Saturday night, there are small plates and natural wine on offer from 5 pm onwards.

The first thing you’ll notice though is the incredible staff, which greet you with gusto upon entry into the cafe.

The staff here are second to none in the city, so overall we can’t speak highly enough of Portobello. Just make sure to book in advance, as the space is small and fills quickly.


THE DETAILS

Where | Veres Pálné u. 16.

Opening hours | Mon - Thurs: 9am - 5pm, Fri - Sat: 9am - 9pm, Sun: 9am - 5pm

Best For | The best brunch in Budapest, staff

Tips | Book in advance, especially on weekends


 
 


SZIMPLY BUDAPEST

After years of trying, we finally manage to nab a table at Szimply, often rated one of Budapest’s best brunches, and it didn’t disappoint.

Hidden away in a stereotypical Budapest courtyard, you’d not know Szimply existed if not for Google, or word of mouth. Yet, Szimply is always packed, a testament to the incredible brunch and coffee supplied next door by Kontakt.

The breakfast menu is simple, small, yet finely crafted and delicious - there’s something for everyone, from bagels to buddha bowls.

We can vouch for the avo bagel, which includes a marinated egg, avocado cream, curry-mango aioli and seasonal greens - it’s fresh, delicious, and a nice nod to the close-by Jewish Quarter of the city.

The scrambled eggs, served with potato rosti, kale and aioli, might sound simple, but the presentation is like a work of art, with each ingredient meticulously laid out on the plate.

Finally, the black waffle is a taste sensation, harmonising the waffle, nuts and fruit deliciously.

As previously mentioned, Szimply is located next to Kontakt, one of Budapest’s best coffee shops. They serve straight up coffee, black or white, with no bells or whistles.

So make sure you get your coffee fix as well - you won’t regret it.

All in all, if you can get a table at Szimply, you’ll enjoy one of the best Budapest brunch options.


THE DETAILS

Where | Röser udvar, Károly krt. 22

Opening hours | Mon-Sat: 9am - 4pm, Sunday closed

Best for | Coffee, fresh, seasonal brunch

Tips | Book in advance, especially on weekends

 
 


CIRKUSZ

Located on Dob Utca, right in the heart of downtown Budapest is Cirkusz.

A long-time favourite amongst travellers to the 7th District, Cirkusz is perhaps the most popular brunch spot in Budapest, with long lines snaking down Dob Utca (and incidentally, past our house!) a regular occurrence.

The interior is large and bright, and the menu is filled with your usual brunch options, including a large array of savoury options, including their famous eggs benedict (2,700 ft), pulled pork benedict 3,400 ft), and recovery breakfast (4,700 ft), featuring everything you need after a night at Szimpla Kert.

For sweeter options, there are pancakes, waffles, and smoothie bowls.

Having eaten at Circkusz twice, we can safely say the eggs benedict are some of the best in the city. They’re always cooked to perfection, with the little yoke-pop always enjoyable. The guacamole sourdough did lack some flavour, however, and there are definitely better options elsewhere in Budapest.

The pancakes though - they’re absolutely delish, so if you do visit, we recommend sticking to the benedict and pancake options.


The coffee here is tasty - Mim thinks it is one of the best in Budapest - they serve their own speciality beans, Bagira, and they also have a range of milk alternatives. The hot chocolate though isn’t the best if you’re not a coffee guy like Mark.

We have to admit, we can’t quite understand the level of hype for Cirkusz, as there are better places in town. However, it’s a good, quality Budapest brunch at an affordable price. One thing to note here is that the staff are excellent - super attentive, and very friendly.

Given the lines that begin from 9 am, Thursday - Sunday, we recommend arriving early, pre 9 am. That, or try to book a table the day before.


THE DETAILS

Where | Dob Utca, 7th District

Opening hours | 8am - 4pm daily

Best for | Pulled pork eggs Benedict, lines

Tips | Book in advance, especially on weekends

 
 

DOUBLE SHOT PARTISAN COFFEE

Hidden off the bustling inner-city tourist street of Vaci Utca, Double Shot feels like a secret Budapest brunch location only locals know about.

Step inside and you’ll feel like you’re in a place that knows what they’re doing - the interior is minimalist and homely, juxtaposed with the loud branding that reads “just fckn double”, in reference to their coffee, which is always a double shot (hence the name).

We first stumbled across Double Shot as Budapest slowly emerged from the winter pandemic slumber, we snapped up the last table in the sun and enjoyed a delicious brunch and coffee.

On offer is a variety of staple breakfast options, from breakfast burritos and eggs benedict to healthy salad bowls.

We opted for the vegetarian-friendly ‘partizan bowl’, a delicious mix of quinoa, salad, roasted vegetables and avocado cream, and the breakfast burrito (minus the pulled pork) - a mouth water mix of eggs, cheddar and coriander. Both were exceptional in taste and presentation, and the perfect way to start a day exploring Budapest.

We’ve also sampled the eggs benedict, which is served on sweet potato medallions - a nice change to the normal English muffins.

For vegetarians, there are heaps of options, and for meat-eaters, sides of bacon or ham can be added to any dish. Oh, and there are lunch options too if you’re that way inclined.

For coffee lovers, Double Shot pride itself on good quality coffee, serving Peruvian roasted beans. The coffee is good, although not the best in Budapest. Same with the chai latte - good, not great.

That being said, the overall experience here is wonderful, and we highly recommend visiting on your way to Budapest’s Great Market Hall, or Gellert Baths.

THE DETAILS

Where | Veres Pálné u. 33

Opening hours | 8:30am - 4pm daily

Best for | An alternative take on eggs benedict

 
 


DORADO CAFE

For anyone that follows us on Instagram (if you don’t go do it now!), you’ll know that Dorado has become somewhat of a second home for us while living in Budapest.

It’s the first place that made us feel truly welcome, with its great coffee, wonderful brunches, large communal table, friendly staff, and social environment (we can’t tell you how many wonderful people we’ve met here).

Run by the beautiful Hungarian-Spanish couple Emese and Mario, who built their barista skills all the way over in New Zealand (being Aussie, we don’t hold that against them!), Dorado is where the cool kids of Budapest get their coffee, brunch, natural wines, and a side of hipster.

The brunch is simple, yet one of our favourites in Budapest.

The avocado toast (1,890 ft) is simple, yet the roasted cherry tomatoes, pomegranate and herbs take it to a whole new level (you can also get it with egg, serrano ham, or both). It’s definitely our go-to brunch option on a lazy weekend.

The Kimchi toast (1,690 ft) is another brunch sensation, with their homemade kimchi served with sour cream and olives. Again, you can add an egg to make it perfect. For a decadent start to the day, the 3-cheese grilled sandwich (1,890 ft) is to die for.

Obviously, speciality coffee offerings are exceptional here, while the hot chocolate and chai latte are both Budapest has to offer.

If you’re after vibes, coffee and simple yet delish brunch options, you can’t go past Dorado.

Say hi to Emese and Mario for us while you’re there!


THE DETAILS

Where | Klauzal Utca 35

Opening hours | Monday - Friday: 8:30 - 17:00, Sat: 9:00 - 16:00, Sun: 9:00 - 15:00

Best for | Hipster vibe, outrageous flavours, coffee


 
 


HOME OF FRANZISKA

Located just below the iconic Fisherman’s Bastion on the Buda side of the city, the Home of Franziska is one of the best Budapest brunch options.

Because of its location away from the chaos that is downtown Pest, it feels way more local, with the well-heeled of Budapest frequenting here regularly. Because of this, it fills up fast, so we recommend booking in advance!

The interior is modern, warm and inviting, with hints of scandi-design that everybody knows and loves. The breakfast options are extensive and broken up into salty and sweet options.

There are the usual salty options - a range of different egg options, avocado on toast, eggs benedict, breakfast burgers, and even the delicious morning bowl, filled with a range of salad greens, veggies and topped with halloumi. There’s also a huge range of vegetarian options.

For sweet-tooths, there are healthy oatmeal options, choc-lover granola bowls, and a hazelnut waffle. There is also a huge selection of smoothie bowls.

We opted for the avocado toast, featuring cherry tomatoes, ricotta and baby spinach, and, in the words of Mim, was definitely one of the best in Budapest.

Mark opted for the breakfast burger, sans bacon, and it was fresh and delicious.

The coffee was also great.

One thing to note is that the portions can be quite small - so if you’ve built up an appetite from exploring, you’ll probably want to order a little extra - we recommend both a savoury and sweet option.

All in all, if you’re on the Buda side of the city, make sure you book here and enjoy one of the best brunches in Budapest.



THE DETAILS

Where | Iskola u. 29, Buda

Opening hours | 7:30am - 6pm, 9am - 4pm

Best for | Best breakfast in Buda, egg and avocado on toast

Tips | Book in advance, especially on weekends

 
 


STIKA GASTROPUB

Another hotspot located in the heart of the 7th District (Jewish Quarter) is Stika. The interior belies its position as a brunch hotspot; the industrial interior filled with plants looks more like a hip bar serving amazing cocktails, and while you can get cocktails here, it’s the all-day brunch they’re famous for.

The menu is substantial, and we had trouble choosing between a large variety of eggs benedict (their speciality), and the

We eventually settled on the goat’s cheese benedict, a standard eggs benedict served with goats cheese cream, and the avo benedict.

While the goat’s cheese benedict was really delicious, the avo benedict lacked flavour and punch. The delicious American pancake stack is also delicious if you’re after something sweet.

In terms of coffee, it’s not the best we’ve had in Budapest, but it did the job. If coffee isn’t your jam, there are Hungarian wines and beers available. Or simple OJ.

One negative about Stika is the price - it’s really expensive for Budapest. Expect to pay around €15 per person for a meal and coffee/drink.


THE DETAILS

Where | Dob u. 46/a

Opening hours | 8am - 4pm daily

Best for | Selection of breakfast options, weekend queues

Tips | Arrive early to avoid the crowds

 
 

KAPTAFA

We’re not going to lie, we visited Kaptafa horribly hungover, and it was the best antidote to a boozy night.

Non-descript in appearance, Kaptafa doesn’t stand out on the frenzied Akácfa Street (famous for the Instant/fogas party complex) in the 7th District, but step inside into the quaint, hip cafe and enjoy a good dose of breakfast classics done with a modern twist.

We recommend the ‘Mr. Molnar’ (2,100 ft), a baguette/brioche type bun (it’s called Molnárka in Hungarian) with creamy scrambled eggs and cheese, served with a side of salad and gherkins. It’s this exact meal that cured Mim’s hangover - the right blend of fats, salts and sugars.

‘Mrs. Molnar’ (2,100 ft) is another delish option, served in the same bun, but with a sunny-side-up egg and bacon.

If you’re after something less heavy, the ‘Where the $#%& am i’ (1,990 ft) is another super tasty option - a poached egg cooked in yoghurt with toast.

After something sweet? You can’t go past the ‘my sweet lord’, sweet french toast in brioche bread with hazelnut spread and banana.

Coffee is always important, and Kaptafa does them well, although like other speciality brunch places in the city, not great.

As with all cafes in Budapest, the space is pretty limited, with a small downstairs area perfect for groups, while there’s a small loft section upstairs to hideaway.

THE DETAILS

Where | Budapest, Akácfa u. 37-39

Opening hours | Sun - Thurs: 9am - 3pm, Fri - Sat 9am - 2am

Best for | Hungover breakfasts, eggs

Tips | Arrive early to avoid the crowds

 
 

LUMEN

For some reason, the 8th district, despite being a short walk from the 7th district, hasn’t yet succumbed to the brunch craze.

This is both a good and bad thing, as no one wants another 7th District, but for our favourite district in Budapest, it’s a little shame there are not more local brunch haunts.

That being said, one of the coolest cafes/restaurants in the entire district is Lumen. Picture a cafe-cum-bar where Budapest’s hippest hang out, and you have Lumen Cafe.

Lumen is located in a former chemical factory on Horánszky u. 5, the towering chimney in the courtyard testament to its industrious past. Now, the industrial frames, glass-covered ceiling and ample greenery create the perfect atmosphere in which to enjoy coffee, brunch, lunch, craft beer, wine, or a good old fashioned spritzer.

Brimming with creatives and students fuelled by excellent coffee (they roast their own coffee beans!), the atmosphere is always buzzing.

The breakfast here is pretty basic - scrambled or sunny side up eggs, with your standard sides (bacon, mushroom or cheese), Hungarian gipsy toast with sour cream, granola and croissants with jam. And while this might not sound groundbreaking, the food at Lumen is exceptional.

If you’re that way inclined, wash it all down with a local craft beer or Hungarian wine (seriously, NOM) and settle in for an afternoon in the cool space.


THE DETAILS

Where | Lumen Cafe, Horánszky utca 5

Opening hours | Mon - Fri 8am - 12am, Sat - Sun 10am - 12am, brunch from 8am weekdays, 10am weekends

Best for | Escaping the Jewish Quarter

 
 


NEW YORK CAFE

Words cannot adequately describe New York Cafe, one Budapest’s most famous attractions

New York Cafe has been welcoming visitors for over 125 years, keen to enjoy coffee and cake in this the most beautiful of settings. Built-in neo-renaissance style, with marble columns, sparkling chandeliers and stunning frescoes, the cafe literally takes your breath away.

Beyond the beauty, there is live Gipsy music from 11 am, which provides a certain ambience that is unmatched anywhere else in Budapest.

While brunch isn’t their main offering, it’s possible to enjoy a full buffet selection (at €30, you’ll want to eat everything!), which includes a selection of pastries, bread, fruits, plus coffee, tea, herbal teas, hot chocolate, and freshly squeezed orange juice, and a selection of one warm dish from the breakfast menu, such as poached eggs, eggs benedict, and even American-style pancakes.

Alternatively, there’s an Italian breakfast for €20, which includes a selection of pastries, fruit salad, bread, jams, honey and butter.

If you’re after something smaller, we’d recommend the selection of cakes, and a decadent hot chocolate for which the New York Cafe is famous. Sure, you’ll likely have a sugar crash an hour later, but it’s 100% worth it.

Visting the New York Cafe is a once in a lifetime experience, so we highly recommend splashing the cash and soaking up the atmosphere of this extravagant cafe.


THE DETAILS

Where | Budapest, Erzsébet krt. 9-11

Opening hours | Monday – Sunday: 8 am – 12 am, Breakfast from 8 am – 11 am

Best for | Feeling like a celebrity

Tips | Book in advance here

READ MORE | Our in-depth guide to the elegant New York Cafe, Budapest

 
 


FEKETE CAFE

Located in a picturesque 19th-century courtyard off the museum boulevard is the ever-popular Fekete.

One of the original Budapest brunch hotspots, Fekete have let their standards slip a little over the last few years, but it’s still a good brunch option in the city if only to sit in the pretty courtyard.

On the menu are a range of omelettes, open-faced sandwiches (the serrano ham, goat cheese cream sandwich is super popular!), shakshuka, granola bowls and french toast, which is their signature dish and what we recommend you get. Layered with berries and caramel, it’s a taste sensation.

Alternatively, there is a range of tasty quiches which we can also recommend for a quick bite.

Like a lot of brunch places in Budapest, Fekete focuses on speciality coffee beans from regions such as Ethiopia and Columbia, with a range of coffee, filter/brew, and creative options available. There’s also tea from local supplier Zhao Zhou, and chai latte’s for the non-coffee drinkers.

One thing to note is that Fekete is quite affordable in comparison to other Budapest brunch spots (around 1,800 ft per meal, 800 ft for a double coffee), so if you’re on a budget, it’s a great option.



THE DETAILS

Where | Budapest, Múzeum krt. 5

Opening hours | 9am - 7pm daily

Best for | Affordable brunch

 
 

VINYL & WOOD

Vinyl & Wood started out as a small lifestyle shop selling watches made from vinyl records, and other Hungarian designed goods, hence the name. But the focus of owners, Nick, Dani and Tamás was always to create a cool cafe selling awesome coffee, quality brunch, and cookies.

And that’s what they’ve done.

Located in the Jewish District, Vinyl & Wood is everything you’d expect from a brunch cafe located in the hipster part of town - minimalist, with wooden panels, painted brick and pendant lighting. Beyond the interior, the most important part is breakfast, which they do well.

The menu is stacked with all the favourites - scrambled eggs with a variety of accompaniments, a range of toasts (which are sourced next door at Arán Bakery), including the favourite Cubano Toast (bbq pork, Prague ham, Emmental cheese, gherkin), eggs benedict, and for the sweet tooths, french toast or homemade granola.

We recommend the goats cheese toast, a mix of French goats cheese, balsamic red onion jam, arugula, roasted pears and topped with salted walnuts - it’s a taste sensation and flavours work so well together.

New wave coffee is served here, although we found it a little bitter - but still tasty.

The overall experience though is awesome here. The staff are friendly, and the vibe is strong - just remember to arrive early to avoid waiting.


THE DETAILS

Where | Wesselényi utca 23

Opening hours | 8:00 - 15:00 daily

Best for | Goats cheese toast

Tips | No booking in advance, so arrive early


TÖRÖKMÉZ

Törökméz (meaning Turkish Honey in Hungarian) is a hidden gem located on the Buda side of the city, known amongst locals as one of the top Budapest brunch hotspots.

Scandi in design with plants filling the space, Törökméz feels immediately welcoming and homely.

The menu is small, which we kinda like - traditional options include bacon & eggs, omelette’s, or Hungarian savoury french toast, but it’s the breakfast specials that are of most interest.

There’s vegan french toast, a breakfast burrito, middle eastern-inspired shakshuka, and a healthy acai bowl option. Plus, a range of tasty toasted sandwich options.

We settled for the shakshuka (2,350 ft), which was absolutely delicious and one of the best we’ve had in Budapest, and the breakfast burrito (1,990 ft. sans chorizo). Both were top quality, using fresh ingredients and cooked to perfection.

There is the standard array of hot drinks, including barista-made coffee (650 ft), chai and hot chocolate, however, we decided to sample the Prince of Persia smoothie (1,450 ft), which was ridiculously tasty.

The only downside to Törökméz is the size - it’s small, so get there early to avoid disappointment, or come in summer when the outdoor courtyard is open.

THE DETAILS

Where | Margit ut. 27

Opening hours | 8 am – 8 pm on weekdays, 8 am – 4 pm on weekends

Best for | Escaping Pest, shakshuka

Tips | No booking in advance, so arrive early




BRUNCH IN BUDAPEST ON THE GO

Sometimes, you just need a quick brunch on the go, and fortunately, you’re in luck in Budapest.

Controversial as it may be, in our opinion Budapest has the best-baked treats in all of Europe. Honestly, the standard of bakeries in the city is unparalleled to anywhere else we’ve visited, even Paris.

Think luscious almond croissants, delicious cardamon/cinnamon buns, flakey pastries… it’s all good.

For that reason, we highly recommend stopping by a few of these bakeries in the city and enjoy all they have to offer.


ARAN BAKERY

Located right in the heart of the 7th District, Arán has become our second home while living in Budapest.

Arán means bread in Irish, which might seem weird considering it’s located in downtown Budapest, but owners Kinga & Attila set up the bakery after working for many years in Dublin.

Arán might just be the best bakery we’ve ever visited. As it’s a two-minute walk from our apartment, we visit maybe 2-3 times per week to get bread or treats.

Some of our favourites include the croissants, which are the best in the city, and maybe Europe. They’re baked fresh daily and are some flaky and flavoursome we’re drooling writing this.

A local favourite is the parno’s, pastry parcels with different fillings - try the savoury truffle and mushroom, or the sweet custard and berry option.

But our number one treat is the cinnamon scroll, a crispy, moist, sugar-laden scroll that needs to be eaten to be believed. They’re super popular, so get in early to get yours.

They also do a range of tasty sandwiches if you plan on exploring for the whole day (their vegan option is really delicious).

Funnily enough, Arán also does really great coffee, so if you’re on the go, grab one too.


THE DETAILS

Where | Wesselényi ut. 23

Opening hours | Mon - Fri: 7:30am - 6pm, Sat-Sun: 8am - 3pm

Best for | Croissants & coffee on the go


 
 



NOR/MA

Scandinavian-Hungarian bakery Nor/ma (and Nor/ma Grand) is home to the best sourdough in Budapest (we should know, we buy 2 loaves per week!). They also take the cake (pardon the pun) with their cinnamon and cardamom buns, which are truly out of this world.

We also recommend trying their take on the Hungarian treat, kakaós csiga, a chocolate swirl that is found throughout the country.

Their selection is not just limited to sweets though - their savoury options are equally delicious.

Located in the heart of the city, Nor/ma is the perfect pit stop to grab a coffee and sweet treat before heading to the nearby Great Market Hall or Gellert Baths.

A second, larger Nor\ma opened recently in Buda.



THE DETAILS

Where | Pest: Kecskeméti u. 11, Buda: Margit körút 75-87

Opening hours | 7 am - 10 pm daily

Best for | Cinnamon and cardamom buns

 
 


ARTIZAN BAKERY

Another top bakery in Budapest is Artizan, located in the affluent downtown streets near Parliament.

Artizan’s focus is on using the highest quality ingredients - read no additives, flour improvers or preservatives. This makes for some of the best quality baked goods in the city.

Beyond the large array of sourdoughs, there’s a huge range of delicious sweets, including our favourite (it’s a once a week treat for us), the cardamon bun, filled with vanilla custard and topped with fresh berries. It’s a taste sensation.

Another common treat is the cardamom pudding, filled with custard.

Artizan differs from other bakeries in that it is also a cafe in which you can sit and have lunch, so they have a large variety of homemade quiches and rolls which are really delicious.


THE DETAILS

Where | Hold ut. 3

Opening hours | Mon - Fri: 07:00 - 18:00, Sat: 07:30 - 13:00, Sun: closed

Best for | Custard-filled cardamom buns, lunch options



FREYA BUDAPEST

If you’re a fan of luscious croissants, Freya is your place.

Made the traditional way, using danish butter and 27 layers of dough (decadent!), Freya is a tourist attraction in itself.

They specialise in croissants only and make a wide selection of sweet and salty options, including their super-famous pistachio croissant.

Our favourite is the outrageous pistachio, raspberry pain au chocolate - it’s every bit as delicious as it sounds.

Freya has two stores, one in Buda and one in Pest (in the 7th District), meaning no matter where you are in the city, one of their croissants will be close by.


THE DETAILS

Where | Pest: Szövetség utca 10-12, Buda: Vadaskerti utca 1-3

Opening hours | Mon - Fri: 8am - 3pm, Sat-Sun: 8am - 2pm

Best for | Croissants


A MAP OF THE BEST BRUNCH IN BUDAPEST

To make life easier for you guys, we’ve created a map with all the best Budapest brunch options listed above.

To save this map to Google Maps app on your phone, click on the bracket in the upper right corner and save away.

 
 

BUDAPEST TRAVEL ESSENTIALS

WHERE TO STAY IN BUDAPEST

We have a full guide to the best areas to stay in Budapest, including our personal hotel recommendations after over two years living in the city, which you can read here. Alternatively, here are some of our top picks for your Budapest stay:

THE SPLURGE | Matild Palace

This Luxury Collection Hotel has finally reopened its doors.

It’s luxurious, stylish, spacious and a huge splurge, but worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime stay in exceptional luxury.

BOOK | MATILD PALACE

MID-RANGE | Hotel Memories

Right in the heart of downtown Budapest, Hotel Memories is a stylish, modern stay with the lively 7th district right at your fingertips.

Just a minute’s walk from the Dohany Street Synagogue, 10-minutes from the river, and 8 minutes from St Stephen’s Basilica, it’s conveniently located for sightseeing.

BOOK | Hotel Memories

HOSTEL | Hostel One Budapest

Consistently rated as one of the best hostels in the city, Hostel One is right in the heart of the 7th district (aka where all the nightlife is). It’s known for being all about community and socialising, but not just in the party sense.

Guests are provided with free homemade dinners each night, and the staff go out of their way to organise activities, sightseeing, etc.

BOOK | Hostel One Budapest



OUR BUDAPEST POCKET GUIDE

Our Budapest City Guide is a curated travel guide, designed to be downloaded to your phone and used as your trusty companion when exploring the city. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find our personal recommendations on the best things to see, eat and drink, places to stay,and things to know, gathered over the two years we spent living in Budapest.

You’ll also find example itineraries to help you make the most of your time there, and plenty of inspiration to guide your travels.

BUY NOW | Purchase the pocket guide here



TRAVEL INSURANCE | STAY SAFE IN HUNGARY

If you can't afford travel insurance, you really can't afford to travel. As the current global situation has taught many people, things can go wrong anywhere in the world - and insurance is often the only way of mitigating any issues with minimal expense or stress for you.

For all travellers | HeyMondo - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel + medical insurance, an app with 24-hour medical support, and no out of pocket fees. *Get 5% off your policy by booking through our link here.

For digital nomads | SafetyWing - COVID-19 coverage, comprehensive travel & medical, and policies can be purchased while already abroad.

Car Insurance | Insurance4CarHire - a great annual car insurance policy



PLANNING A TRIP TO BUDAPEST SOON?

BUDAPEST TRAVEL GUIDES | 25+ amazing things to do in Budapest, The best Ruin Bars in Budapest, Explore the best of Budapest’s Jewish Quarter, Józsefváros, Budapest’s hipster 8th district, the best brunch in Budapest, and Where to stay in Budapest

BUDAPEST ATTRACTIONS | A guide to Szechenyi Baths, the majestic Fisherman’s Bastion, Gellert Thermal Baths, New York Cafe, Szimpla Kert Ruin Bar, How to visit Dohany St Synagogue, A guide to St. Stephen’s Cathedral

BALATON BLISS | What to see and do on Lake Balaton, and our 3-day guide Balaton

EXPLORE MISKOLC | Enjoy our short city break guide to Miskolc, explore the enchanting forest town of Lillafüred, or discover the Miskolctapolca Cave Baths

AIRBNB GUIDE | Our essential guide to getting the best out of Airbnb

TRAVEL INSURANCE | Don’t leave home without travel insurance (seriously, don’t!). Discover the best deals with World Nomads or get 5% off with HeyMondo here

PHOTOGRAPHY | Love our photography? Wondering what gear we use to get all of our photos around the world? Click here to view our detailed photography gear guide, as well as our top travel photography tips!

RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL | Responsible travel is important. REALLY IMPORTANT. Learn our top responsible travel tips to help you, your family and friends travel more consciously around the globe

ECO-FRIENDLY PACKING ESSENTIALS | Don’t leave home without our favourite eco-friendly travel essentials



Some of the links on this Best Brunch in Budapest Guide are affiliate links.

If you choose to purchase using these links, we receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please know that by using these affiliate links, you're directly supporting The Common Wanderer to stay wandering, the running costs of the site, and our ability to provide you with free content to help you on your travels.

That, and you're officially a legend.