Though not well-known for its coffee, Budapest actually has one of the better cafe cultures across Europe.
And it’s not just about the taste of the coffee. With so many digital nomads flocking to Hungary because of its cheap cost of living compared to Western Europe, lots of coffee shops in Budapest prioritize cozy interiors and inviting spaces.
I worked and stayed in the Hungarian capital for one week, trialing various famous coffee shops throughout Budapest. After spending a day at each, here are my favorite.
Magveto Cafe
Hands down the best coffee shop in Budapest is Magveto Cafe.
I spent a day working from here and everything from the coffee to the service to the decorative interior was memorable for all the right reasons. The chairs are soft and comfortable, perfect for an extended remote work stint. The bookshelves and step-seating are a unique twist to the interior.
Magveto Cafe is located just down the street from the famous Szimpla Kert ruin pub in historic District VII. Depending on where you’re staying in Budapest, it should be within walking distance, and if not, it’s still worth making the trek to.
London Coffee Society
While New York Cafe gets all the buzz as the most famous coffee shop in Budapest thanks to its elegant interior, its coffee just isn’t as good as another cafe named after an international city: London Coffee Society
London Coffee Society’s atmosphere is pretty hipster, filled with amateurish drawings on the wall and small tables. It looks like a coffee shop you’d find in San Francisco or Brooklyn.
The coffee here gets rave reviews from customers. It’s perfect to grab a cup to-go, or if you’re lucky you could grab an open table and just listen to the conversations in this friendly, inviting space.
Massolit Budapest Books and Cafe
Massolit Books and Cafe is another one of Budapest’s most famous coffee shops. Also doubling as a bookstore, there’s a lot going on inside, and there’s even a little courtyard in the back for when it’s temperate and sunny.
Massolit had good coffee and a fantastic book selection. It’s fine for a brief work stint, but it can get a bit stuffy inside after a while, so I’d recommend somewhere else if you’re planning on a prolonged work session. Despite that, it’s unique aesthetic has stuck in my memory for awhile.
Kelet Cafe
Kelet Kevezo es Galeria has a really nice ambience, great for remote workers. It’s outside of the typical tourist zone on the Buda side of the river, which can be nice to remove yourself from the noise a bit if that’s what you’re after.
Lined with neat bookshelves throughout, Kelet also offers breakfast food for those looking for a simple bite to eat. Plus, it doubles as a wine bar and a cool spot in Budapest at night, serving customers until 11:00 p.m. most nights of the week.
Apricot Coffee
Apricot Specialty Coffee undoubtedly serves some of the tastiest coffee in Budapest and the service was super friendly. They also serve really yummy and fresh pastries. There’s a great outdoor area for people watching or just taking in nice weather.
Located in the Jewish District, Apricot is right in the center of the action so very convenient for most visitors.
Ben the Goose Coffee Bar
Ben the Goose is a relatively new coffee shop in Budapest that had recently opened when I went. Their coffee was great, and there’s a nice outdoor patio to relax if it’s a nice day outside.
Because it’s outside of the inner core of Budapest, Ben the Goose is a touch less visited than some of the best cafes in Budapest on this list. However, it’s near the famous Andrassy Avenue and just two blocks down from Kodaly Korund M1 stop on the way to Varosliget Park, so it’s worth popping in if you’re in the vicinity.
Matinee Coffee Shop
Outside of the main tourist drag in Budapest, yet right near historic Andrassy Avenue, is the underrated Matinee Coffee Shop. This small coffee shop looks like a little dollhouse inside and also offers fresh cakes and sandwiches.
Just a couple blocks from Ben the Goose, Matinee is located in outer District VII – one of the most elegant neighborhoods in Budapest. It’s the best coffee shop to sit outside and people watch, scroll on your phone, or read a book. The inside is small, so I wouldn’t it recommend as a workstation. However, Matinee has delicious coffee and a perfect sitting, which makes it one of the best coffee shops in Budapest. Plus, it’s a bit of a hidden gem, which gives it another point in my book. If you’re a coffee-lover on a trip to Hungary, Matinee is can’t-miss.
Espresso Embassy
If you’re looking for the most beautiful coffee shop in Budapest, look no further than Espresso Embassy right in the historical center of town near St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Prices for an espresso or latte are high for Budapest standards given the location. However, the speakeasy-like inside makes it worth the extra couple of dollars if you’re going to stay for a while. And if not, you’ll at least get to enjoy one of the best espressos you can find in Budapest. They’re also known for their delicious tea, and have baked goods as well.
