If there is one dish you should not leave Budapest without trying, it’s goulash. Showing up on nearly every menu in the city, a really good bowl of goulash is something special, filled rich with paprika, slow-cooked beef, and tasty broth.
The challenge is figuring out which restaurants in Budapest serve the real deal, appropriately priced goulash, and which are just checking a box for tourists.
With that said, continue reading to learn more about what Hungarian goulash actually is, where to find the best versions in Budapest, and what other classic dishes are worth ordering while you’re in this beautiful city.
What Is Hungarian Goulash?
Goulash, (or ‘gulyás’ in Hungariam), is one of the staple Hungarian dishes and something you absolutely must try while in Budapest.
Unlike the thick stew many people associate with goulash outside of Hungary, the traditional version is more like a soup. Ghoulash is made with beef, onions, potatoes, carrots, and plenty of paprika, which gives it that deep red color and rich flavor. Paprika is another Hungarian food, which you will find no shortage of in Budapest).
Traditional goulash is filling without being too heavy, making it perfect after a long day of sightseeing, especially in cold winter weather.
Where to Find the Best Goulash in Budapest
Budapest is full of places serving goulash, but some do it better than others. It’s important to avoid the overpriced, mediocre goulash, which often can be found right along the Danube in the most frequented parts of the city by tourists.
With that said, here’s where you can find the best goulash in Budapest:
Szatetly
Szaletly is a hidden gem that mainly the locals only know about. Located near Varosliget (City Park), Szaletly has a really nice, contemporary interior. Their goulash is rich with deep paprika flavor and the freshest ingredients. It is a great choice if you want something authentic, where most customers are residents of the city.
Gettó Gulyás
Gettó Gulyás is well-known as one of the best places in Budapest for goulash and other Hungarian comfort food. Their goulash popular with both locals and visitors, which is usually a good sign. It’s located in the heart of District VII, one of the best neighborhoods in Budapest.
Hungarikum Bisztró
Hungarikum Bisztró, just a few blocks south of the Hungarian Parliament, is another cozy spot that focuses on traditional Hungarian recipes. Their goulash is packed with flavor, and the portions are very generous. The atmosphere feels welcoming and old-school without being stuffy.
Rosenstein
Rosenstein is a long-running, family-owned restaurant known for serving some of the best Hungarian food in the city. Their goulash is highly regarded by locals, as they use high-quality ingredients in a white tablecloth atmosphere.
Stand25 Bisztró
Stand25 Bisztró, just a few blocks behind Buda Castle, is run by a Michelin-starred team that serves up fantastic goulash. Their goulash is a great choice if you want to try a high-quality version without committing to fine dining. They also have a really nice French onion soup.
What Side Dish Goes Well With Goulash?
Goulash is often served on its own as a complete meal. While a real hearty goulash might be enough without a side, fresh bread is the most common accompaniment and is perfect for soaking up the broth. In some places, you might also see “csipetke,” small handmade noodles, added into to the soup. If you are having goulash as part of a larger meal, a light salad or would pair nicely and help balance out the richness as well.
Other Hungarian Dishes to Try in Budapest
While goulash gets much of the attention, Hungarian cuisine has a lot more to offer! Chicken paprikash is another classic, usually served with nokedli dumplings and a paprika sauce.
Lángos is a popular street food made from fried dough and topped with sour cream and cheese. Hortobágyi palacsinta, savory pancakes filled with meat and paprika sauce, are also worth trying.
If you have a sweet tooth, be sure to indulge in chimney cake while in Budapest (I had plenty).
