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New York Café in Budapest: Is It Really Worth It?
When you think about world-renowned cafes, what places come to mind? Paris, Vienna, or maybe Rome? Well, allow me to add Budapest to that list – more specifically, the New York Cafe in Budapest.
Named as the “Most Beautiful Café in the World,” this establishment is a feast for the senses with its over-the-top opulence and grandeur.
However, does it live up to the hype? Or is it just another overpriced tourist trap? I ventured to find out for myself, and here’s what I discovered.
New York Café Budapest Review
As famous and as beautiful as the New York Café in Budapest is, my visit left me somewhat underwhelmed. Don’t get me wrong, the café’s architecture is absolutely stunning, but you can catch a quick glimpse without enduring a half-hour queue for an overpriced coffee.
Let’s start from the beginning. The exterior of the building, though beautiful, resembles many others in Budapest. Upon entering (which may involve queuing outside), you’re greeted by the most opulent café imaginable.
The interior is stunning, adorned with intricate gold details that give it the air of a museum rather than a café.
However, when the waiter seated us, I couldn’t help but feel a bit let down. It appeared as though we were in the only part of the café without a grand ceiling. The table seemed more fitting for a modest diner than an elegant café, especially with the oversized picture of food.
As for the drinks – we only had drinks, no food – they were decent but excessively pricey, as one might expect. So, I’d rather treat myself to another spa day in Budapest than go for a meal there.
Typically, there is live music, but there was none when we visited. Anyway, I doubt we would have been able to hear it from our table, considering the distance.
Ultimately, I believe there are numerous more enjoyable activities to do in Budapest than waiting in line for an overpriced drink.
This is solely my personal opinion. I’ve come across numerous glowing reviews of the café, with some calling it the most beautiful café in the world. Perhaps my expectations were simply too high.
Should you want to visit the New York Café and make up your own mind, I can provide you with some useful tips and background information.
Why is the New York Café in Budapest Famous?
The New York Cafe in Budapest is famous for its stunning decor and rich history. It has been called one of the most beautiful cafés in the world, attracting tourists from all over the globe.
That’s why many people add a trip to the New York cafe to their Budapest itinerary, but to be completely honest, I think Budapest has far better attractions than this café.
New York Café Budapest History
The New York Cafe in Budapest first opened its doors in 1894 and quickly became a popular meeting place for writers, artists, and intellectuals.
During World War II, the café was forced to close. After some restoration, the café reopened in 1954 with the name Hungária.
Throughout the years, the café has undergone several renovations while still maintaining its original grandeur. In 2006, the café was restored to its former glory and renamed the New York Cafe. Today it’s one of the most famous attractions in Budapest.
New York Café Budapest Decor and Architecture
The interior of the New York Cafe is truly awe-inspiring. With its high ceilings, intricate details, and opulent furnishings, stepping into the café feels like traveling back in time.
Admire the stunning frescoes on the ceiling, the luxurious velvet chairs, and the sparkling chandeliers. The café also houses a grand staircase leading up to a gallery that overlooks the main dining area.
It’s the perfect backdrop for your Insta-worthy pictures in Budapest.
Things to Know about Visiting the New York Café
Before you visit the New York Cafe in Budapest, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
- The café is usually very busy, with lengthy queues, so calculate in some time. You can’t book a table during the day, it’s first come first serve. Table reservations are only possible for dinner.
- The venue is very elegant but there is no dress code. Most guests are tourists in casual outfits.
- While the cafe is famous for its coffee, it also has a variety of dishes on its menu and even some vegan options. However, if you’re in the mood for vegan food, it’s better to check out one of the vegan restaurants in Budapest.
- Be prepared to pay a bit more than usual as the prices reflect the cafe’s fame and grandeur.
- Lastly, take the time to wander around the café to admire the stunning architecture and décor. Each room looks slightly different.
- It’s best practice to tip the musicians if they play during your visit.
New York Café Budapest Menu
As mentioned earlier, the New York Cafe offers more than just coffee. Their menu features a variety of dishes, including breakfast options, soups, salads, sandwiches, and main courses. They also have a wide selection of desserts to satisfy your sweet tooth.
If you’re in the mood for a drink, the café offers a variety of coffee, tea, and alcoholic beverages. Their most popular coffee is a cappuccino with 24-carat gold flakes on top.
You can download the full menu on the official New York Cafe webpage.
New York Café in Budapest Prices
As expected, the New York Cafe in Budapest is on the pricier side. A cup of coffee can cost around 10 euros, while cakes range from 10-15 euros.
The cheapest items on the menu are soft drinks and still water for €6.50.
Those prices seem very high for Budapest, but I’ve been to other restaurants with similar prices but without the unique atmosphere.
New York Café Budapest Reservation
It used to be possible to book a table for just drinks beforehand to skip the queues. This is no longer possible. Daytime seating operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
The only possibility to book a table is for a dinner reservation.
Final thoughts: Is the Budapest Café New York Worth it?
In the end, I believe it’s up to personal preference whether or not the New York Cafe in Budapest is worth a visit. While some may find it to be a must-see attraction, others may find it overpriced and underwhelming.
Personally, I don’t think it’s worth it. There are plenty of other things to do in Budapest that offer a more authentic and affordable experience.
Read more about Budapest:
- 20 Absolute Best Things to Do in Budapest Hungary
- 17 Unbelievable Free Things to Do in Budapest
- 17 Truly Unusual Things to Do in Budapest
- 3 Days in Budapest Itinerary: What to See & Do
- I tried the 4 Best Thermal Baths Budapest
- 10 Best Fully Vegan Restaurants in Budapest
- 3 Best Budapest Tours from Vienna
- Is Budapest Worth Visiting? 10 Reasons Why I Love It
- Best Souvenirs from Budapest to Remember Your Trip
- 15 Best Budapest Instagram Spots to Capture Your Trip
- How to Get to Margaret Island Budapest: Easy Ways
- Ultimate Thai Massage Budapest Guide
- New York Café in Budapest: Is It Really Worth It?
- Can You Drink Tap Water in Budapest? Absolutely!
- Is Budapest Cheap? Yes, But Not as Much as It Once Was
- Belgrade to Budapest by Bus: The WORST Journey
- Hungary
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