Budapest has no shortage of cafes oozing that good-old-day feeling. Some
have been around for ages and haven’t changed a bit, and some newer
ones try very hard to re-create the past. Check out these retro chic
places for strong espresso served in glass cups, old-school decor, and
classic Budapest coffeehouse charm.

by Anna J. Kutor

Bambi Presszó

Frankel Leó út 2/4, Budapest 1027, +36 1 212 3171

An oasis of real vintage coolness, this small neighborhood bar near
the foot of the Margit bridge has been a Buda fixture since the height
of the Communist era. The interior retains its decades-long charm with
red leather seating, crochet tablecloths, and faded checkerboard tiles.
And the service remains efficient but decidedly rude. The retro
character also extends to the menu offerings, from a simple range of
coffees (either in glass cups or polka dot cups), beers and liquors to a
handful of traditional nibbles (pogácsa, creamy cakes, frankfurters,
and simple sandwiches) to go with them. This place has a loyal long-time
clientele, and a patio which fills up on warm evenings with people
coming for cheap beer and spritzers (fröccs).

Táskarádió

Papnövelde utca 8, Budapest 1053, +36 1 266 0413

Like a time capsule dug up 50 years after it was buried, Táskarádió
offers a glimpse of the design and feel of 1960s Hungary. The glowing
neon sign next to the University square signals the location of this
funky old-timer, but it’s the colorful interior full of period
furniture, artwork and memorabilia that really shines. But it’s not just
the appearance—the new-age take on classic dishes, as well as the
coffee and wine selection is fantastic.

Művész Kávézó

Andrássy út 29, Budapest 1061, +36 1 343 3544

There’s no doubt Művész Kávézó has class. Like its counterparts,
Centrál Kávéház and Auguszt Cukrászda, the interiors breath heavy with
elegance and old-world finesse, but here it’s overwhelmingly of the
faded glory variety. The cordial service and neo-Baroque furnishings
play to its advantage, with tall windows giving views of Andrassy út and
allowing for shafts of sunlight to stream in. It all makes for a
pleasant morning if, all you are after, is a heady cup of coffee and a
classic pastry (of which there are numerous options of delicious
choices).

Centrál Kávéház

Károlyi Mihály utca 9, Budapest 1053, +36 1 266 2110

With class and style that endures the test of time, the Centrál
Kávéház has been a perennial favorite of discerning locals and visitors
who wile away the hours over coffee, cakes, animated conversations and
an assortment of dog-eared newspapers. This is, after all, a century-old
landmark, restored in 2000 to its original splendor of dark wood and
leather furnishings, brass fixtures and grand windows. Besides the
gourmet range of coffees, Hungarian standards play alongside more
continental offerings on the food front, from Hortobágyi meaty pancakes
and pan-roasted duck to slow-cooked venison. With its decent wine list,
full menu (which is quite delicious), and wonderful pastries, you could
easily stay for awhile after you finish your cup of coffee.

Jégbüfé

Ferenciek tere 10, Budapest 1053, +36 1 318 6205

In the ‘cafes that changed Budapest’ category, this long-standing
bistro and confectioner’s shop on Ferenciek tere ranks close to the top.
Not for its revolutionary food offering or design, mind you, but more
for its always-there-and-ready-to-serve quality that it has upheld since
its establishment in 1952. If it’s an authentic retro atmosphere, a
good pastry or traditional cake and a cup of coffee you seek, it’s worth
a shot. However, you must be willing to stand as there are only
stand-up counters. Now there is also a Buda location (Fény utca 15, Budapest 1024).