Budapest’s food scene is a delightful mix of traditional Hungarian dishes and modern European cuisine. Hungarian food is known for its hearty, flavorful dishes that often feature paprika, meat, and seasonal vegetables. When in Budapest, there are a few traditional dishes you simply must try:
- Gulyás (Goulash): Hungary’s most famous dish, Goulash is a hearty soup made with beef, vegetables, and paprika. It’s comforting, rich, and perfect for colder days.
- Lángos: A popular street food, Lángos is a deep-fried dough typically topped with garlic, sour cream, and cheese. It’s a delicious, calorie-packed treat!
- Pörkölt: Often compared to Goulash, Pörkölt is a thick stew made with beef or pork, onions, paprika, and other spices. It’s often served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) or potatoes.
- Töltött káposzta (Stuffed Cabbage): Another traditional dish, this consists of cabbage leaves stuffed with a mixture of minced pork, rice, and spices, simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce.
For dessert, try dobos torte, a famous Hungarian sponge cake with layers of chocolate buttercream and caramel, or rétes, the Hungarian version of strudel, typically filled with fruit or sweet cheese.
Budapest also offers an array of fine dining options, including Michelin-starred restaurants like Onyx and Costes for those who want to explore modern interpretations of Hungarian cuisine.
