Destination
Things to see and do in Budapest : Nightlife
10 addresses
A38
Petõfi Bridge Budapest • +36 1 464 3946Description:
BUDA SIDE. If ever a place captures the cosmopolitan but edgy undercurrent of Budapest, this is it. A38 is something of an institution in the city largely due to the fact it is an old Ukranian stone-carrier ship. The vessel is moored on the Buda side of the Danube, next to the Petõfi bridge, and its popularity lies in the fact it caters for an impressive spectrum of people: the high-class restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine; the club on the lower level has been home to orchestras, DJs and singers, while the bar terraces give you an opportunity to kick back under the Hungarian sky and take in the Pest skyline. A38 positively encourages local artists to flourish, so you may find on your visit that films are being screened on the upper deck or art installations are even scattered throughout. It's definitely worth climbing aboard one evening.
Alcatraz Club
Nyár utca 1 Budapest 1072 • +36 1 478 6010Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there's a jailhouse-theme underpinning this club, but don't let that put you off. This venue pulls in music lovers with its schedule of blues, swing, salsa, funk, disco and more basically, any music you can dance to. Even those who prefer more contemporary, mainstream music are catered for, with a juicy selection of DJ nights and live music from local bands. The music kicks off at 9pm during the week and an hour later on weekends, and the whole experience is topped off with good-sized meals and welcoming staff.
Barokko Club & Lounge
Liszt Ferenc tér 5 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 322 0700Description:
PEST SIDE. You can spend an evening exploring the three levels of the Barokko Club & Lounge, taking in the restaurant/lounge, the café/bar and the music club. Each floor incorporates a different design, individualising each element of this popular hangout. With its DJs (including internationally renowned vinyl-spinners), cocktails and terrace, Barokko attracts a steady stream of trendy city dwellers some of whom enjoy dancing the night away in the club; others who prefer the relative calmness of the terrace.
Cactus Juice
Jókai tér 5 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 302 2116Description:
PEST SIDE. The Old West comes to Hungary in the shape of this themed bar. Situated near busy Liszt Ferenc tér, this venue attracts a clientele looking to unwind and soak up a party atmosphere, fueled by its extensive cocktail menu and range of over 50 whiskies. The kitchen is excellent, serving up loaded plates that'll see you through a night of partying in this club, where Western-style features are complemented by the high-energy ambience.
Club Inside
Közraktár utca 9-11 Budapest 1093 • +36 1 210 4872Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there is a club inside this venue, but it's one trendy place amongst three situated in the single location. Club Inside co-exists with Retro Beach and Buddha Beach, the hedonistic trio occupying a prime spot on the bank of the Danube. It's the location, coupled with the vibrant atmosphere, that makes this a very popular place during the summer, with Budapest's party-people enjoying the salsa, funk, soul, retro and electro music. There's also an outdoor area for al fresco drinks, with its beautiful views of the Gellért Hotel, Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge) and University of Technology and Economics.
Columbus Pub and Restaurant
Vigadó tér, dock nr 4 Budapest 1051 • +36 1 266 90 13Description:
PEST SIDE. This is one of the permanently moored boats on the Danube that has been transformed from working vessel to playing venue. Situated between Elizabeth Bridge and Chain Bridge, Columbus is actually a pub and restaurant on the water, which brings you Columbus Jazz Club every evening. This is where Hungary's best jazz players perform, ensuring evenings filled with quality music that'll have your foot tapping. The artists of the Society of Hungarian Jazz (who founded the Columbus Jazz Club) often play sets here, and there are sessions from special guests and up-and-coming young artists as well. The live jazz sessions take place from 8pm-10pm; they're always popular, so be sure to reserve your table.
Columbus Pub and Restaurant detail
Corvintetõ
Blaha Lujza tér 1-2 Budapest 1085 • +36 20 77 22 984Description:
PEST SIDE. This venue promotes itself as the 'underground place above the city' look up while you're in Blaha Lujza tér and you may catch a glimpse of the bar at the top of an old, state department store. Reinforcing the 'underground' feel is the fact that the entrance is snuck away, but simply head for the gyros (kebab) shop on Somogyi Béla utca and you'll reach it. Don't be deterred by the tiled stairs that greet you on entrance through that door keep going, and you'll be treated to some terrific rooftop views, where you can even see the Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill. The bar offers alternative music and DJs, with Monday nights easing you in to the week with down-tempo jazz.
Fat Mo's
Nyáry Pál u 11 Budapest 1056 • +36 1 267 3199Description:
PEST SIDE. This is the closest thing to a 'speak-easy' you'll find in Budapest. A subtle 1920s theme underpins this venue, most blatantly in its name and the pictures adorning the brick walls, and patrons expect little of this to change when the venue reopens in September after its usual summer close-down. There's also an underground feel to Fat Mo's, due in no small part to the fact that it occupies a vast basement. It's the place to visit, relax with some good food and wine and then listen to music (which usually kicks off at about 9pm). Dinner reservations are advised, as the place does get busy early on.
Gödör Klub
Erzsébet tér Budapest 1051 • +36 20 2013868Description:
PEST SIDE. "Gödör" translates into English as "hole," but don't let this put you off the name is indicative of this club's location. Visit Erzsébet tér and you'll see that a portion of the square is sunken. It's here you'll find Gödör, a club offering live music, DJs as well as art exhibitions. Its central location makes this a highly popular meeting place, but many often simply stay put, happy to stay and listen to the vast range of music that includes folk, rock, electro, pop, blues, rap and even gypsy. The outdoor terrace is swarmed in good weather, so visit early to pick your spot in the summer.
Holdudvar
Margaret Island (old Casino), Budapest • +36 1 236 0155Description:
Margaret Island has a lot going for it musical fountains, pools, gorgeous views but this bar is a definite highlight. Occupying the old casino building, expanses of white walls adorned with modern artwork have replaced the slot machines and roulette wheels. The atmosphere is relaxing but fun, a mix of families, couples and friends, and the menu offers some exceptional dishes, including veal and a great gazpacho. Situated only five minutes from the Margaret Bridge entrance, just head straight down the middle of the island, and you'll find Holdudvar. Just be sure to visit it during the summer as it closes down during winter months.
Best of the City
A38
Petõfi Bridge Budapest • +36 1 464 3946Description:
BUDA SIDE. If ever a place captures the cosmopolitan but edgy undercurrent of Budapest, this is it. A38 is something of an institution in the city largely due to the fact it is an old Ukranian stone-carrier ship. The vessel is moored on the Buda side of the Danube, next to the Petõfi bridge, and its popularity lies in the fact it caters for an impressive spectrum of people: the high-class restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine; the club on the lower level has been home to orchestras, DJs and singers, while the bar terraces give you an opportunity to kick back under the Hungarian sky and take in the Pest skyline. A38 positively encourages local artists to flourish, so you may find on your visit that films are being screened on the upper deck or art installations are even scattered throughout. It's definitely worth climbing aboard one evening.
Alcatraz Club
Nyár utca 1 Budapest 1072 • +36 1 478 6010Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there's a jailhouse-theme underpinning this club, but don't let that put you off. This venue pulls in music lovers with its schedule of blues, swing, salsa, funk, disco and more basically, any music you can dance to. Even those who prefer more contemporary, mainstream music are catered for, with a juicy selection of DJ nights and live music from local bands. The music kicks off at 9pm during the week and an hour later on weekends, and the whole experience is topped off with good-sized meals and welcoming staff.
Holdudvar
Margaret Island (old Casino), Budapest • +36 1 236 0155Description:
Margaret Island has a lot going for it musical fountains, pools, gorgeous views but this bar is a definite highlight. Occupying the old casino building, expanses of white walls adorned with modern artwork have replaced the slot machines and roulette wheels. The atmosphere is relaxing but fun, a mix of families, couples and friends, and the menu offers some exceptional dishes, including veal and a great gazpacho. Situated only five minutes from the Margaret Bridge entrance, just head straight down the middle of the island, and you'll find Holdudvar. Just be sure to visit it during the summer as it closes down during winter months.
Irish Cat Pub
Múzeum krt 41 Budapest 1053 • +36 1 266 4085Description:
PEST SIDE. This is a popular meeting place for travellers and expatriates, who enjoy the frivolous atmosphere of Irish Cat. There's plenty of Irish whisky and beer to sample, with the atmosphere loud and cheery on St Patrick's Day and even Halloween. The kitchen offers a standard menu of meals such as pizzas and burgers to fuel your fun at reasonable prices. The location of Irish Cat, in the heart of the city, makes this a consistently busy venue.
Jam Pub
Lövõház utca 1-3 Mammut II Shopping Centre, Budapest 1024 • +36 1 345 8301Description:
BUDA SIDE. Don't let the fact that this venue is situated on the ground floor of the Mammut II Shopping Centre put you off. Jam Pub is a bustling music bar that attracts a colourful mix of locals, tourists and expatriates with its solid food menu and its range of music. The interior is a little dark, but the stage in the corner showcases bands and singers that'll lighten things up. It's in the evening when things launch into full swing, with live music and loud conversation, but if you're in the vicinity or even shopping in Mammut II itself, this is well worth a visit for lunch; try the mushroom soup served in a hollowed out loaf it'll keep you going all day!
Menta Terasz
Margit krt 14 Budapest 1022 • +36 1 3361250Description:
BUDA SIDE. Menta Terasz blends together a Mediterranean vibe with a Colonial feel and it all works well together. The courtyard with its garden has the Med ambience, while the roof garden incorporates that Colonial style. Against this fusion sits the more modern dancefloor, allowing guests to relax in the courtyard with a beer before moving onto the roof for a chaser and then dancing both off. Situated on Margit körút, close to the Buda end of Margaret Bridge, this venue is friendly and versatile. Note: There may be admission charged for concerts in the cellar.
Sirály
Király utca 50 Budapest 1061 • +36 20 992 7901Description:
PEST SIDE. The local cuisine may be expanding your girth, but what about your mind? If you're looking for some mental stimulation, visit Sirály. Offering a programme of concerts, exhibitions, movies and talks from local 'intellectuals', this is a distinctly popular place with a unique atmosphere that's infused with its 'underground' feel.
Soho London Pub
Nagymezõ utca 31 Budapest 1068 • +36 20 463 9912Description:
PEST SIDE. As with its namesake, Soho London Pub comes alive in the evening. This bar is particularly popular on the weekends, when the tracklist of R&B, latin and funk attracts young locals and tourists with its hedonistic atmosphere. Situated in the heart of downtown Pest, this venue comes with the bonus of excellent transport links and taxi points nearby ideal for a place that closes only at dawn.
Szóda
Wesselényi utca 18 Budapest 1075 • +36 1 461 0007Description:
PEST SIDE. Stepping into Szóda is like stepping into a very refined cartoon strip. The main bar on the ground floor has its walls plastered with monochrome graphics while the metallic strips and unpretentious furniture make for relaxed but slick surroundings. The lower level has a dance floor. Szóda promotes the fact that you can enjoy a cup of cafe here during the day just as much as you can enjoy a bottle (or four) of beer in the evening, and the fact that it's situated on the prime strip of Wesselenyi utca means that there's no excuse not to do both cafe before the tourist sights; a beer to round off the day.
West Balkán
Nagytemplom utca 30 +36 20 473 3651 1080 • +36 20 473 3651Description:
PEST SIDE. A well-established kert, the West Balkan is a casually cool venue. The bar was forced to move in the summer of 2008 from its previous building, but moved only one street away to occupy a crumbly building that was a former pub. This is a terrific meeting place at the outset of your evening, or for a chilled-out evening, offering outside seating, DJs and a grill serving snacks. Quirky and informal, but still Budapest-cool.
Bars
A38
Petõfi Bridge Budapest • +36 1 464 3946Description:
BUDA SIDE. If ever a place captures the cosmopolitan but edgy undercurrent of Budapest, this is it. A38 is something of an institution in the city largely due to the fact it is an old Ukranian stone-carrier ship. The vessel is moored on the Buda side of the Danube, next to the Petõfi bridge, and its popularity lies in the fact it caters for an impressive spectrum of people: the high-class restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine; the club on the lower level has been home to orchestras, DJs and singers, while the bar terraces give you an opportunity to kick back under the Hungarian sky and take in the Pest skyline. A38 positively encourages local artists to flourish, so you may find on your visit that films are being screened on the upper deck or art installations are even scattered throughout. It's definitely worth climbing aboard one evening.
Alcatraz Club
Nyár utca 1 Budapest 1072 • +36 1 478 6010Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there's a jailhouse-theme underpinning this club, but don't let that put you off. This venue pulls in music lovers with its schedule of blues, swing, salsa, funk, disco and more basically, any music you can dance to. Even those who prefer more contemporary, mainstream music are catered for, with a juicy selection of DJ nights and live music from local bands. The music kicks off at 9pm during the week and an hour later on weekends, and the whole experience is topped off with good-sized meals and welcoming staff.
Barokko Club & Lounge
Liszt Ferenc tér 5 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 322 0700Description:
PEST SIDE. You can spend an evening exploring the three levels of the Barokko Club & Lounge, taking in the restaurant/lounge, the café/bar and the music club. Each floor incorporates a different design, individualising each element of this popular hangout. With its DJs (including internationally renowned vinyl-spinners), cocktails and terrace, Barokko attracts a steady stream of trendy city dwellers some of whom enjoy dancing the night away in the club; others who prefer the relative calmness of the terrace.
Cactus Juice
Jókai tér 5 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 302 2116Description:
PEST SIDE. The Old West comes to Hungary in the shape of this themed bar. Situated near busy Liszt Ferenc tér, this venue attracts a clientele looking to unwind and soak up a party atmosphere, fueled by its extensive cocktail menu and range of over 50 whiskies. The kitchen is excellent, serving up loaded plates that'll see you through a night of partying in this club, where Western-style features are complemented by the high-energy ambience.
Club Inside
Közraktár utca 9-11 Budapest 1093 • +36 1 210 4872Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there is a club inside this venue, but it's one trendy place amongst three situated in the single location. Club Inside co-exists with Retro Beach and Buddha Beach, the hedonistic trio occupying a prime spot on the bank of the Danube. It's the location, coupled with the vibrant atmosphere, that makes this a very popular place during the summer, with Budapest's party-people enjoying the salsa, funk, soul, retro and electro music. There's also an outdoor area for al fresco drinks, with its beautiful views of the Gellért Hotel, Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge) and University of Technology and Economics.
Columbus Pub and Restaurant
Vigadó tér, dock nr 4 Budapest 1051 • +36 1 266 90 13Description:
PEST SIDE. This is one of the permanently moored boats on the Danube that has been transformed from working vessel to playing venue. Situated between Elizabeth Bridge and Chain Bridge, Columbus is actually a pub and restaurant on the water, which brings you Columbus Jazz Club every evening. This is where Hungary's best jazz players perform, ensuring evenings filled with quality music that'll have your foot tapping. The artists of the Society of Hungarian Jazz (who founded the Columbus Jazz Club) often play sets here, and there are sessions from special guests and up-and-coming young artists as well. The live jazz sessions take place from 8pm-10pm; they're always popular, so be sure to reserve your table.
Columbus Pub and Restaurant detail
Corvintetõ
Blaha Lujza tér 1-2 Budapest 1085 • +36 20 77 22 984Description:
PEST SIDE. This venue promotes itself as the 'underground place above the city' look up while you're in Blaha Lujza tér and you may catch a glimpse of the bar at the top of an old, state department store. Reinforcing the 'underground' feel is the fact that the entrance is snuck away, but simply head for the gyros (kebab) shop on Somogyi Béla utca and you'll reach it. Don't be deterred by the tiled stairs that greet you on entrance through that door keep going, and you'll be treated to some terrific rooftop views, where you can even see the Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill. The bar offers alternative music and DJs, with Monday nights easing you in to the week with down-tempo jazz.
Fat Mo's
Nyáry Pál u 11 Budapest 1056 • +36 1 267 3199Description:
PEST SIDE. This is the closest thing to a 'speak-easy' you'll find in Budapest. A subtle 1920s theme underpins this venue, most blatantly in its name and the pictures adorning the brick walls, and patrons expect little of this to change when the venue reopens in September after its usual summer close-down. There's also an underground feel to Fat Mo's, due in no small part to the fact that it occupies a vast basement. It's the place to visit, relax with some good food and wine and then listen to music (which usually kicks off at about 9pm). Dinner reservations are advised, as the place does get busy early on.
Gödör Klub
Erzsébet tér Budapest 1051 • +36 20 2013868Description:
PEST SIDE. "Gödör" translates into English as "hole," but don't let this put you off the name is indicative of this club's location. Visit Erzsébet tér and you'll see that a portion of the square is sunken. It's here you'll find Gödör, a club offering live music, DJs as well as art exhibitions. Its central location makes this a highly popular meeting place, but many often simply stay put, happy to stay and listen to the vast range of music that includes folk, rock, electro, pop, blues, rap and even gypsy. The outdoor terrace is swarmed in good weather, so visit early to pick your spot in the summer.
Holdudvar
Margaret Island (old Casino), Budapest • +36 1 236 0155Description:
Margaret Island has a lot going for it musical fountains, pools, gorgeous views but this bar is a definite highlight. Occupying the old casino building, expanses of white walls adorned with modern artwork have replaced the slot machines and roulette wheels. The atmosphere is relaxing but fun, a mix of families, couples and friends, and the menu offers some exceptional dishes, including veal and a great gazpacho. Situated only five minutes from the Margaret Bridge entrance, just head straight down the middle of the island, and you'll find Holdudvar. Just be sure to visit it during the summer as it closes down during winter months.
Dance Clubs
A38
Petõfi Bridge Budapest • +36 1 464 3946Description:
BUDA SIDE. If ever a place captures the cosmopolitan but edgy undercurrent of Budapest, this is it. A38 is something of an institution in the city largely due to the fact it is an old Ukranian stone-carrier ship. The vessel is moored on the Buda side of the Danube, next to the Petõfi bridge, and its popularity lies in the fact it caters for an impressive spectrum of people: the high-class restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine; the club on the lower level has been home to orchestras, DJs and singers, while the bar terraces give you an opportunity to kick back under the Hungarian sky and take in the Pest skyline. A38 positively encourages local artists to flourish, so you may find on your visit that films are being screened on the upper deck or art installations are even scattered throughout. It's definitely worth climbing aboard one evening.
Alcatraz Club
Nyár utca 1 Budapest 1072 • +36 1 478 6010Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there's a jailhouse-theme underpinning this club, but don't let that put you off. This venue pulls in music lovers with its schedule of blues, swing, salsa, funk, disco and more basically, any music you can dance to. Even those who prefer more contemporary, mainstream music are catered for, with a juicy selection of DJ nights and live music from local bands. The music kicks off at 9pm during the week and an hour later on weekends, and the whole experience is topped off with good-sized meals and welcoming staff.
Barokko Club & Lounge
Liszt Ferenc tér 5 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 322 0700Description:
PEST SIDE. You can spend an evening exploring the three levels of the Barokko Club & Lounge, taking in the restaurant/lounge, the café/bar and the music club. Each floor incorporates a different design, individualising each element of this popular hangout. With its DJs (including internationally renowned vinyl-spinners), cocktails and terrace, Barokko attracts a steady stream of trendy city dwellers some of whom enjoy dancing the night away in the club; others who prefer the relative calmness of the terrace.
Cactus Juice
Jókai tér 5 Budapest 1061 • +36 1 302 2116Description:
PEST SIDE. The Old West comes to Hungary in the shape of this themed bar. Situated near busy Liszt Ferenc tér, this venue attracts a clientele looking to unwind and soak up a party atmosphere, fueled by its extensive cocktail menu and range of over 50 whiskies. The kitchen is excellent, serving up loaded plates that'll see you through a night of partying in this club, where Western-style features are complemented by the high-energy ambience.
Club Inside
Közraktár utca 9-11 Budapest 1093 • +36 1 210 4872Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there is a club inside this venue, but it's one trendy place amongst three situated in the single location. Club Inside co-exists with Retro Beach and Buddha Beach, the hedonistic trio occupying a prime spot on the bank of the Danube. It's the location, coupled with the vibrant atmosphere, that makes this a very popular place during the summer, with Budapest's party-people enjoying the salsa, funk, soul, retro and electro music. There's also an outdoor area for al fresco drinks, with its beautiful views of the Gellért Hotel, Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge) and University of Technology and Economics.
Pótkulcs
Csengery utca 65/b Budapest 1067 • +36 1 269 1050Description:
PEST SIDE. Pótkulcs, or 'Spare Key' in English, takes a bit of effort in locating. It's set in an inner garden, tucked away from view in a downtown building. As long as you're listening carefully for music, you'll be able to track down the bar easily enough, and it's worth the effort: the bohemian design adds a quirky edge to a venue offering a good range of central and eastern European food, all at reasonable prices. A casual, chilled-out place that won't blow the holiday budget.
Soho London Pub
Nagymezõ utca 31 Budapest 1068 • +36 20 463 9912Description:
PEST SIDE. As with its namesake, Soho London Pub comes alive in the evening. This bar is particularly popular on the weekends, when the tracklist of R&B, latin and funk attracts young locals and tourists with its hedonistic atmosphere. Situated in the heart of downtown Pest, this venue comes with the bonus of excellent transport links and taxi points nearby ideal for a place that closes only at dawn.
Szilvuplé
Ó utca 33 Budapest 1064 • +36 20 992 5115Description:
PEST SIDE. This is something of a hybrid venue that's perfect if you're having an indecisive evening. Want to eat, listen to DJs, salsa and latin music, sing-along with karaoke? This is the place for you. Situated in the heart of the city, this operates as a lounge, cafe, restaurant and bar, all under the one roof. Prices are moderate, allowing you to eat, drink and be merry without moving from your chair except when it's time to dance, that is.
Szóda
Wesselényi utca 18 Budapest 1075 • +36 1 461 0007Description:
PEST SIDE. Stepping into Szóda is like stepping into a very refined cartoon strip. The main bar on the ground floor has its walls plastered with monochrome graphics while the metallic strips and unpretentious furniture make for relaxed but slick surroundings. The lower level has a dance floor. Szóda promotes the fact that you can enjoy a cup of cafe here during the day just as much as you can enjoy a bottle (or four) of beer in the evening, and the fact that it's situated on the prime strip of Wesselenyi utca means that there's no excuse not to do both cafe before the tourist sights; a beer to round off the day.
Live Music
A38
Petõfi Bridge Budapest • +36 1 464 3946Description:
BUDA SIDE. If ever a place captures the cosmopolitan but edgy undercurrent of Budapest, this is it. A38 is something of an institution in the city largely due to the fact it is an old Ukranian stone-carrier ship. The vessel is moored on the Buda side of the Danube, next to the Petõfi bridge, and its popularity lies in the fact it caters for an impressive spectrum of people: the high-class restaurant offers a mix of Mediterranean and local cuisine; the club on the lower level has been home to orchestras, DJs and singers, while the bar terraces give you an opportunity to kick back under the Hungarian sky and take in the Pest skyline. A38 positively encourages local artists to flourish, so you may find on your visit that films are being screened on the upper deck or art installations are even scattered throughout. It's definitely worth climbing aboard one evening.
Alcatraz Club
Nyár utca 1 Budapest 1072 • +36 1 478 6010Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there's a jailhouse-theme underpinning this club, but don't let that put you off. This venue pulls in music lovers with its schedule of blues, swing, salsa, funk, disco and more basically, any music you can dance to. Even those who prefer more contemporary, mainstream music are catered for, with a juicy selection of DJ nights and live music from local bands. The music kicks off at 9pm during the week and an hour later on weekends, and the whole experience is topped off with good-sized meals and welcoming staff.
Club Inside
Közraktár utca 9-11 Budapest 1093 • +36 1 210 4872Description:
PEST SIDE. As the name suggests, there is a club inside this venue, but it's one trendy place amongst three situated in the single location. Club Inside co-exists with Retro Beach and Buddha Beach, the hedonistic trio occupying a prime spot on the bank of the Danube. It's the location, coupled with the vibrant atmosphere, that makes this a very popular place during the summer, with Budapest's party-people enjoying the salsa, funk, soul, retro and electro music. There's also an outdoor area for al fresco drinks, with its beautiful views of the Gellért Hotel, Szabadság híd (Liberty Bridge) and University of Technology and Economics.
Columbus Pub and Restaurant
Vigadó tér, dock nr 4 Budapest 1051 • +36 1 266 90 13Description:
PEST SIDE. This is one of the permanently moored boats on the Danube that has been transformed from working vessel to playing venue. Situated between Elizabeth Bridge and Chain Bridge, Columbus is actually a pub and restaurant on the water, which brings you Columbus Jazz Club every evening. This is where Hungary's best jazz players perform, ensuring evenings filled with quality music that'll have your foot tapping. The artists of the Society of Hungarian Jazz (who founded the Columbus Jazz Club) often play sets here, and there are sessions from special guests and up-and-coming young artists as well. The live jazz sessions take place from 8pm-10pm; they're always popular, so be sure to reserve your table.
Columbus Pub and Restaurant detail
Corvintetõ
Blaha Lujza tér 1-2 Budapest 1085 • +36 20 77 22 984Description:
PEST SIDE. This venue promotes itself as the 'underground place above the city' look up while you're in Blaha Lujza tér and you may catch a glimpse of the bar at the top of an old, state department store. Reinforcing the 'underground' feel is the fact that the entrance is snuck away, but simply head for the gyros (kebab) shop on Somogyi Béla utca and you'll reach it. Don't be deterred by the tiled stairs that greet you on entrance through that door keep going, and you'll be treated to some terrific rooftop views, where you can even see the Liberty Statue on Gellért Hill. The bar offers alternative music and DJs, with Monday nights easing you in to the week with down-tempo jazz.
Fat Mo's
Nyáry Pál u 11 Budapest 1056 • +36 1 267 3199Description:
PEST SIDE. This is the closest thing to a 'speak-easy' you'll find in Budapest. A subtle 1920s theme underpins this venue, most blatantly in its name and the pictures adorning the brick walls, and patrons expect little of this to change when the venue reopens in September after its usual summer close-down. There's also an underground feel to Fat Mo's, due in no small part to the fact that it occupies a vast basement. It's the place to visit, relax with some good food and wine and then listen to music (which usually kicks off at about 9pm). Dinner reservations are advised, as the place does get busy early on.
Gödör Klub
Erzsébet tér Budapest 1051 • +36 20 2013868Description:
PEST SIDE. "Gödör" translates into English as "hole," but don't let this put you off the name is indicative of this club's location. Visit Erzsébet tér and you'll see that a portion of the square is sunken. It's here you'll find Gödör, a club offering live music, DJs as well as art exhibitions. Its central location makes this a highly popular meeting place, but many often simply stay put, happy to stay and listen to the vast range of music that includes folk, rock, electro, pop, blues, rap and even gypsy. The outdoor terrace is swarmed in good weather, so visit early to pick your spot in the summer.
Holdudvar
Margaret Island (old Casino), Budapest • +36 1 236 0155Description:
Margaret Island has a lot going for it musical fountains, pools, gorgeous views but this bar is a definite highlight. Occupying the old casino building, expanses of white walls adorned with modern artwork have replaced the slot machines and roulette wheels. The atmosphere is relaxing but fun, a mix of families, couples and friends, and the menu offers some exceptional dishes, including veal and a great gazpacho. Situated only five minutes from the Margaret Bridge entrance, just head straight down the middle of the island, and you'll find Holdudvar. Just be sure to visit it during the summer as it closes down during winter months.
Irish Cat Pub
Múzeum krt 41 Budapest 1053 • +36 1 266 4085Description:
PEST SIDE. This is a popular meeting place for travellers and expatriates, who enjoy the frivolous atmosphere of Irish Cat. There's plenty of Irish whisky and beer to sample, with the atmosphere loud and cheery on St Patrick's Day and even Halloween. The kitchen offers a standard menu of meals such as pizzas and burgers to fuel your fun at reasonable prices. The location of Irish Cat, in the heart of the city, makes this a consistently busy venue.
Jam Pub
Lövõház utca 1-3 Mammut II Shopping Centre, Budapest 1024 • +36 1 345 8301Description:
BUDA SIDE. Don't let the fact that this venue is situated on the ground floor of the Mammut II Shopping Centre put you off. Jam Pub is a bustling music bar that attracts a colourful mix of locals, tourists and expatriates with its solid food menu and its range of music. The interior is a little dark, but the stage in the corner showcases bands and singers that'll lighten things up. It's in the evening when things launch into full swing, with live music and loud conversation, but if you're in the vicinity or even shopping in Mammut II itself, this is well worth a visit for lunch; try the mushroom soup served in a hollowed out loaf it'll keep you going all day!
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