What are some must-try street foods in Budapest?

Published: June 08 2023

Budapest, the capital of Hungary, entices food enthusiasts from around the globe with its endless array of street foods offering a burst of flavors and textures. This vibrant city combines Central European culinary traditions with a contemporary, creative twist that can be experienced in many of their street foods. Let's dive into the must-try selections you should indulge in during your visit to Hungary's charming capital:

Lángos is a classic Hungarian fast food, made of deep-fried dough and served fresh and hot right from the fryer. Traditionally topped with sour cream and grated cheese, many variations of lángos can be found in Budapest, including garlic-topped, ham, sausage, and even vegetarian options.

Kürtőskalács, also known as chimney cake, is a sweet and savory treat that is a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The soft and sweet dough is wrapped around a wooden spit, grilled over an open fire, and then rolled in sugar. As the sugar caramelizes, it creates a crispy exterior while the inside remains tender and fluffy. Kürtőskalács can be enjoyed with a variety of flavors such as cinnamon, nutella, or even savory options like cheese and bacon.

Töki Pompos is another must-try when you're exploring the street foods of Budapest. Often referred to as Hungarian pizza, Töki Pompos is a thick, oven-baked flatbread traditionally topped with sour cream, bacon, onion, and sometimes cheese. The crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making it a perfect base for the rich toppings. As you walk around the city, you'll likely come across many stalls serving this dish, each with its own twist and additional toppings.

Some modern variations even incorporate spicy sausage, mushrooms, or peppers. It's a filling and flavorful snack that captures the essence of Hungarian comfort food. Perfect for a chilly evening, Töki Pompos pairs exceptionally well with a glass of local wine or beer, making it an ideal choice for those wanting to immerse themselves in the Budapest street food experience.

You can't leave Budapest without trying some of the delicious local sausages, or kolbász. These often-smoky sausages are made with pork and a blend of spices, including the famous Hungarian paprika. You'll find them grilled or fried and served with grated horseradish, sauerkraut, or mustard. A visit to a local market or food fair will undoubtedly present you with a wide variety of traditional and artisanal sausages to choose from.

Sajtos virsli, or sausage in a bun, is a Budapest favorite and the perfect grab-and-go snack. The dish consists of a Hungarian-style sausage (usually a spicy sausage) nestled in a fresh bun, often topped with grated cheese, onions, mustard, and other condiments. There's something undeniably satisfying about biting into a sajtos virsli as you stroll the streets of Budapest.

Tócsni, or Hungarian potato pancake, is one of the simplest street foods you'll find in Budapest, but don't let that fool you. These fried savory pancakes are made from grated potatoes, flour, and spices, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful inside. Tócsni is usually served with sour cream, garlic, and cheese, and makes for an excellent option for vegetarians.

With an abundant heritage, Budapest boasts a diverse range of street foods that caters to every craving. From hearty meat dishes to delicious pastries, this city is a culinary wonderland just waiting to be explored. Make sure to savor these must-try street foods on your next adventure through the enchanting streets of Budapest.