Cafe New York, Budapest

The Hungarian capital has many attractions, such as the Chain Bridge, Buda Castle or the Szécheny Baths. But we can also enjoy a few hours of relaxation and history in one of the most beautiful cafes in the world. The New York Cafe is an experience for all the senses, a unique and special place that will attract you.

The history

The New York Café in Budapest appeared in 1894 and has nothing to do with the American metropolis. It is named after the New York insurance company, which financed the construction of the 4-story building. The luxurious decorations, unusual at the time, soon turned the cafe into one of the most elegant scenes of social life in the Hungarian capital. The stars of the time, journalists, writers and artists spent a lot of time here, in the place where many urban legends were born.

"The atmosphere was so cheerful and relaxing, the customers felt so good here that they thought this cafe would be open day and night. And the legend says that Molnar Ferenc, who later wrote the novel "Boys from Pal Street", took the key to the place and, together with his friends, threw it in the Danube, so that the cafe could never close, "Norbert Balogh, manager.

During the heyday, 400 newspapers arrived daily at the New York cafe for loyal customers. Today, the place keeps alive the memory of the stars of the past. Special tables are preserved, which transpose visitors to the 19th century. But today's artists also enjoy the privilege of having a personalized table, such as the conductor Tamas Vasary. The difficult period of lack of funds for restoration did not bypass the New York cafe either, but in the end foreign investors solved the problems.

"The renovations lasted over 2 years, and the cafe opened again in 2006 and so it can shine again as before, you can also see vintage photos. Everything is extremely successful, all visitors are impressed. If we look at every detail, we always notice something new. And I, who have been working here for over 6 years, can say that I discover a new detail every day, executed with fantastic finesse, ”says Norbert Balogh.

The prices at the New York cafe are not the lowest on the market, instead, the gastronomic offer is special, the staff friendly and attentive and, last but not least, the pianists are discreet and with a good repertoire.

A wonderful corner

It is said to be the best coffee in the world. Therefore, all tourists coming to the Hungarian capital should stop by the New York Cafe and, if possible, have breakfast or a snack at one of their meals.

Today it belongs to the Boscolo Hotel and is very famous internationally. However, This building was built as the headquarters of an insurance company, whose name was used for the canteen.

The institution was inaugurated on October 23, 1894. And in its long history it has gone through glorious and decadent moments. But regardless of all this, what is certain is that New York Cafe has lived the best society and cultural life in Budapest.

The best moment of this establishment was the period known as the "between wars" when Budapest was an important cultural center of Central Europe. During communism, its splendor declined, as it did with the country in general. After those years, the unit had to close for some time to restore its original magic.

Although it is the most expensive place to get coffee everywhere in the capital, it is worth investing. More than a cafe, the New York Cafe in Budapest looks like a palace. You will feel like a real king!

Pure luxury

The color gold is the predominant color in the living room and also includes the ceiling and columns. The walls, in turn, contain beautiful frescoes. And, apart from the majestic chandeliers and the relief of the arches. You will be surprised to see an ostentatious decoration as well refined!

Also, the waiter service is excellent and the food is delicious. A good idea is to go in the middle of the morning and order a full breakfast of sweets and Hungarian chocolate with cream or coffee. This way, you will fill in and avoid lunch.

In this menu, two people will spend about 20 euros… but I think you pay for sightseeing in a place with a lot of history, and going through local consumer delicacies. It doesn't look like a lot of money!