Where We’ve Been Eating & Drinking This Winter
Some places just keep pulling us back—like that little café with the perfect flat white (because let’s be real, life runs on caffeine), or the tiny restaurant with big flavours that always hits the spot. We’ve also found some amazing eateries with gluten-free options, plus we have our go-to places when it comes to self-rewarding after a long day.
These are the spots we love—the ones we go to again and again. So if you’re looking for a great coffee, a quick lunch, or a new favourite hangout, check out our top picks. You might just find your new go-to!
Orsi's top choice for caffeine- OHANA Coffee
Orsi has been spending a lot of time at OHANA Coffee lately because of an apartment renovation nearby. It became a sort of ritual for her, after a long and exhausting day of work, treating herself to a delicious coffee here - like a well-earned reward. No matter how tiring the day was, that one quiet moment with a coffee made here by the lovely staff makes it all a little bit easier. Plus as an interior designer, she loves the design. :)
Forni di Napoli, for GM-free pizza
If you have celiac disease you probably know the devastating craving for food that tastes like something you used to eat before you used to give a f... what you eat. So, to be able to eat pizza, especially a good-tasting pizza is a blessing to the soul. Forni di Napoli is the best we’ve found in the neighbourhood. We know many people who deal with similar dietary restrictions - there are two of us in the team- so finding a spot that’s both delicious and accommodating is always a win!
Taco Bar, Norbi's choice for lunch
We love finding places that fuse exotic flavours with dietary-friendly options—in our case, gluten-free food. One of our favourite spots for lunch is Taco Bar near Szabadság tér. Their tortilla is homemade and contains only cornflower so even if your diet doesn't allow gluten, you can go for traditional dishes such as the Burrito bowl or Taco roll without having to worry. You should also try their burger with avocado and jalapeno. Taco Bar is the perfect place for enjoying authentic Mexican dishes and the friendly staff just gives it the extra plus!
LUI, our colleague Bea's choice for a delicious pastry
Very trendy and very good, Lui is a speciality bakery in downtown Budapest. Lui's huge green windows and interior decor are nearly as enticing as the pastries, loaves, and patisserie they serve. It's picture-perfect in every way, but beyond that, the treats they serve are mouth-wateringly tasty. The place is hidden on a tree-lined side street of the most elite part of District 5 by Liberty Square, near the American Embassy, in Aulich street. By the way, Aulich street happened to also won the title "Budapest's most expensive street" a couple of times already.
Quí and Opium Restaurant&Bar, the Team's top choice to unwind
Whenever we’re in the mood for celebration we love going to Qui. This amazing Thai and Vietnamese restaurant, located in the heart of downtown on Arany János Street, never disappoints. The dishes are full of rich, authentic flavours, and the atmosphere makes the whole experience even better. With its pagoda-like intimacy, it is the ultimate treatment for self-reward in gastronomy after a long week or a turbulent day. Insider tip: For drinks after work, you can go to Qui's newly opened sister Opium.
OPIUM is a similarly fabulous gastronomic venture as Qui, created by the same owners. The design is perhaps even bolder than its little sister's. OPIUM offers a more cosmopolitan, grand experience, enhanced by bright and airy solutions, numerous mirrors, and a long communal table. Traditional details and small touches are not missing, nor are the beautiful flowers. The space is bursting with natural materials and colours, creating a refreshing and visually pleasing atmosphere while breaking away from usual stereotypes. The use of lighting and mirrors is also particularly well executed. In our opinion, it is the perfect choice for a celebratory drink and fullfilling food after work.
Our Secret Tip: SpránEats and drinks
There’s a tireless, yet smiling guy called Bence running a tiny kitchen in a little hole-in-the-wall spot on Falk Miksa Street called SpránEats, and he’s serving up some seriously good food. His menu changes regularly, but it’s always creative and well worth trying. If you’re in the area and looking for a hidden gem, this is definitely a spot to check out!
These are just a few of our favourites, but we will update you from time to time! Next time you're out, give them a try—you might just find your new favourite!
Enjoy the city this winter, one cosy stop at a time!
