I came to Budapest for one reason only—to eat. And let me tell you, Hungarian food did not disappoint. Every dish was rich, bold, and packed with flavor, from sizzling street snacks to hearty comfort foods that warm you from the inside out.
If you’re heading to Budapest, these dishes belong on your plate. Forget the usual tourist stops—this is the real way to experience Hungary.
So loosen your belt, grab a fork, and let’s dive into the 20 must-try Hungarian dishes you can’t leave Budapest without tasting.
1. Goulash
Goulash isn’t just a soup; it’s a Hungarian institution. Imagine tender beef falling apart in your mouth, mingling with vibrant carrots and potatoes. Each spoonful delivers a punch of paprika that warms you from the inside out.
One bite, and you’ll understand why locals love it. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every precious drop. Goulash embodies the heart of Hungarian cooking. It’s hearty, soulful, and satisfying.
2. Lángos
Lángos: The crispy, cheesy street food you need. It’s the ultimate comfort food, perfect for strolling through Budapest. Trust me, you’ll want to try it hot and fresh from the street vendors.
Bite into the golden, crispy dough topped with melty cheese and tangy sour cream. The dough is soft inside, making each bite a delightful contrast. Lángos is more than just a snack; it’s a Budapest staple.
3. Chimney Cake
Crispy outside, soft inside—chimney cake is a sweet, cinnamon-scented dream. It is spiral of dough, baked to perfection and dusted with sugar. The aroma alone was enough to draw me in.
This dessert is a cultural icon. It’s interesting to watch as it’s freshly baked, the dough swirling around a rotisserie, creating a crispy crust that crackles with each bite. Chimney cake is best enjoyed warm, its sugary exterior melting in your mouth.
4. Fisherman’s Soup
This soup is a spicy, hearty delight that packs a flavorful punch. It’s a steaming bowl filled with chunks of fresh fish, swimming in a broth rich with paprika.
I tried this soup in a restaurant by the Danube. But let me warn you, it’s fiery and it’s an adventure for your taste buds.
5. Stuffed Cabbage
Stuffed cabbage is comfort food at its finest. Imagine tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory meat and rice filling, all smothered in a rich tomato sauce. Each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors.
This dish is a staple in Hungarian homes, bringing warmth and joy to every gathering. It’s hearty, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. I am lucky enough to have Hungarian friends, but if you aren’t, the ones served in restaurants are just as good. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every bite of this delightful dish.
6. Dobos Torte
A classic Hungarian is the Dobos Torte. It’s a cake that’s a feast for the eyes and the palate. Picture layers of light sponge cake, each filled with rich chocolate buttercream. The finishing touch? A glossy caramel glaze that adds a delightful crunch.
This dessert is a masterpiece. Each slice is a symphony of textures and flavors, making it a must-try for any sweet tooth. Enjoy a slice in one of Budapest’s cozy cafes, paired with a cup of strong coffee.
7. Hortobágyi Pancake
Hortobágyi Pancake is a savory surprise you’ll love. It’s something like a crepe filled with seasoned minced meat, then drizzled with a luscious paprika sauce. Each bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures.
This dish is a nod to Hungarian creativity in the kitchen. It’s the perfect blend of savory and spice, creating an unforgettable taste experience. I first tried at in a busy Budapest bistro, where the atmosphere is as inviting as the food. So I suggest you follow my steps.
8. Pörkölt
Tender chunks of meat, simmered slowly in a rich paprika sauce with onions. The flavors meld together, creating a dish that’s deeply satisfying. I present to you the Pörkölt.
It’s the kind of meal that warms you up, heart and soul. They often serve it with a side of nokedli, a type of Hungarian dumpling, to soak up the delicious sauce.
9. Rakott Krumpli
Rakott Krumpli is a layered delight, with layers of potatoes, sausage, and eggs, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust. Each forkful is a warm embrace of flavors. It’s hearty, filling, and utterly delicious.
This dish is a favorite in Hungarian households, and again I have to thank my friends for preparing it for me. It’s part of their family gatherings and cozy dinners. But many of Budapest’s amazing restaurants serve it. So take a bite, and let it transport you to a cozy family kitchen.
10. Paprikás Csirke
It’s a creamy, dreamy delight you can’t resist, and probably pronounce – the Paprikás Csirke. It’s often served with nokedli, those pillowy Hungarian dumplings that soak up the sauce perfectly. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, perfect for a cozy meal in Budapest.
Tender chicken pieces, enveloped in a rich, paprika-infused sauce, this is what life is about. Each mouthful is a delicious dance of flavors. It’s a must-try that promises to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
11. Lecsó
Lecsó is a burst of sunshine on your plate. Picture colorful bell peppers, ripe tomatoes, and onions, all mingling in a fragrant, paprika-infused sauce. Each bite is a taste of summer, no matter the season.
This dish is a staple in Hungarian kitchens, celebrated for its simplicity and vibrant flavors. Enjoy it as a main or a side—it’s versatile and utterly delicious. Lecsó is a celebration of Hungary’s bountiful produce. Don’t miss this iconic dish on your culinary journey.
12. Jókai Bableves
This traditional Hungarian bean soup is named after the famous Hungarian writer Mór Jókai. Mr. Jókai is very lucky to have this beautiful dish carry his legacy. The soup’s aroma is inviting, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal on a chilly day.
It is a delightful combination of beans, smoked meat, and vegetables, all simmered to perfection. The addition of sour cream brings a tangy richness that complements the savory flavors. When in Budapest, you’ll find it served in many authentic Hungarian restaurants,
13. Meggyes Pite
And if you want to try something sweet, I suggest you try Meggyes Pite. This sour cherry pie is a delightful Hungarian dessert that showcases the country’s love for cherries. The pie features a buttery crust filled with tart cherries that provide a refreshing zing to every bite.
This dessert is particularly popular during the cherry season when fresh cherries are abundant. Its bright flavors and flaky crust make it a favorite among both locals and visitors who crave a sweet treat. You’ll find it pairs beautifully with a cup of strong Hungarian coffee.
14. Töltött Paprika
Töltött Paprika is a hearty Hungarian classic. Imagine bell peppers stuffed with a savory mix of meat and rice, all topped with a rich tomato sauce. Each bite is a flavorful embrace.
It’s filling, delicious, and utterly satisfying. Best eaten alongside a slice of crusty bread to soak up the sauce. Enjoy this dish in Budapest, and let its flavors wrap you in warmth.
15. Húsleves
This is a traditional Hungarian meat soup, often served as the first course during Sunday lunches or festive meals. The broth is clear and richly flavored, typically made with beef or chicken, along with root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
This nourishing soup is known for its simplicity and depth of flavor, capturing the essence of homemade Hungarian cooking. It’s often garnished with freshly chopped parsley, adding a touch of color and freshness.
16. Somlói Galuska
Somlói Galuska is a dessert dream come true. Imagine layers of sponge cake, walnuts, and chocolate sauce, all topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. Each spoonful is a sweet symphony.
This treat is a staple in Hungarian patisseries, offering a delightful end to any meal. Its textures and flavors dance on your palate, leaving you craving more.
17. Főzelék
If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, try Főzelék. It is a Hungarian vegetable stew that’s pure comfort in a bowl. Imagine a blend of creamy vegetables, each bite a nourishing delight.
It’s hearty and wholesome, perfect for any time of year. Picture yourself in a Budapest bistro, savoring each spoonful as the city’s charm surrounds you. Enjoy it as a main or a side—it’s delicious either way.
18. Rántott Sajt
Rántott Sajt is a cheesy delight you can’t resist. This dish is perfect for cheese lovers, offering a taste of indulgence that’s hard to beat. It’s street food at its finest, simple yet utterly satisfying.
It’s a crispy, breaded cheese that oozes with melty goodness. Paired with tangy tartar sauce, it is a flavor explosion. Enjoy it hot and fresh, the cheese stretching with every bite.
19. Almás Rétes
The Hungarian version of apple strudel is a slice of heaven. The flaky pastry is filled with spiced apples and plump raisins, dusted with powdered sugar. Each bite is a sweet sensation.
You can find this dessert easily in Hungarian bakeries, offering a taste of home-baked goodness. It’s perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, making any moment special.
20. Palacsinta
Another Hungarian version of a pancake is a Palacsinta. It is light and lovely. This dish is versatile, great for breakfast, dessert, or any time you crave something sweet.
Imagine thin, tender pancakes filled with sweet jam, then dusted with powdered sugar. It is a moment of pure joy. I tried it in one of Budapest’s cafés, surrounded by the city’s timeless beauty – a memory I will cherish forever.