Working as Wingman’s marketing manager in Budapest, interacting with our tour creators at the office taught me where to find the city’s hidden foodie places. Our product manager is one of our healthiest team members, she keeps a running list of veggie spots, and after trying them all, I had to share these places. They’re the real deal – no tourist traps, just good food where we locals eat.

Napfényes Étterem – Budapest

This old apartment building near Astoria hides one of Budapest’s best vegetarian kitchens. The piano music from the corner makes the place feel special without being stuffy. What makes this place stand out? Their vegan takes on Hungarian dishes actually work. The seitan goulash has fooled even my meat-loving friends. But the real star? Their corn flour scones. I grab two every time – one for now, one for later. Come around 6 PM when the pianist starts playing.

Price range: $$ Address: Ferenciek tere 2. Opens: 11:30 AM – 9 PM

Vegan Love – Budapest

A vegan restaurant where everything on the menu is exceptionally tasty. Their plant-based versions of “tuna” and “meat” dishes taste remarkably similar to the original versions. They’re experts at combining flavors. Their almond apple cake is one of their most popular desserts. The menu demonstrates creative approaches to vegan cooking.

Price range: $ Address: Bartók Béla út 9. Opens: 11:00 AM – 9 PM

Madal Cafe – Budapest

This isn’t just another coffee shop. Their Alkotmány Street location serves up daily vegetarian lunches that keep me coming back. The big windows and plenty of seats make it perfect for working or meeting friends. Did I mention it is almost next to the Parliament?! They make their own plant milk blends, and the baristas remember regular customers’ orders. The lunch menu changes, but their pumpkin curry bowl stays on rotation – thank goodness.

Price range: $$ Address: Alkotmány Street 4 Opens: 7 AM – 7 PM

Govinda – Budapest

You’ll know you’ve found it when you smell cardamom and cumin floating down Papnövelde Street. The staff treats you like family here, and they never rush you out. Their thali plate changes daily – you get five different dishes, rice, and naan for about $8. I learned to love okra here, and their mango lassi beats the summer heat. The lunch crowd packs in by noon, but tables turn over pretty quick.

Price range: $ Address: Papnövelde Street 7 Opens: 11 AM – 9 PM

VegaCity – Budapest

When I need quick, good food between tours, this is my spot. The buffet setup lets you see everything before choosing, and they price by weight. The falafel’s always crispy, and their roasted vegetables actually have seasoning. Weekday afternoons stay busy with office workers, but the line moves fast. Pro move: check their Facebook page for daily specials before going.

Price range: $ Address: Múzeum Boulevard 23 Opens: 11 AM – 5 PM

Local Tips:

• Book dinner at Napfényes if you’re going Thursday-Saturday
• Every place speaks English and has English menus
• Most meals cost between 2500-5500 HUF ($5-15)
• Best eating times: 11:30 AM-1:30 PM, 6-8 PM
• All spots take cards, but carry some cash just in case
• Water isn’t free – but it’s cheap (if you ask for tap water specifically that could be free)

Want more local food tips? Get Wingman! We share new spots weekly, and you can message us anytime about where to eat.

See you around Budapest!