El F

Legit strudel!!! Probably the best in the city, can't compare with the strudel at the Hungarian pastry shop (they're better with cakes), this one is balanced, not too sweet and traditional. Try the apple one, the cheese with cherry and the poppy seed one, this is a unique taste.

Aniko Magyar

Cozy pastry shop and restaurant. The decoration on the wall reminds us of our grandmothers' kitchens. The service is very pleasant and clean. Unfortunately, the staff are not Hungarian. Delicious desserts and dishes delight the guests….

+11

Brigitta Danyi

I’m from Budapest Hungary. I love to cook and bake. The cheese biscuit what we called pogacsa I can tell they made the absolutely best ! Afternoon better to call them before you go, if they still have it .. Also the strudel my favorite here the cheese with cherry.. if you love poppyseed like me then that’s your place!Cherry pie a slice to die for ! Dobos cake , chestnut roll, pies , huge I usually buy this and that and we share. Hot food also good little different how we made it at home but delicious! I wish to try the körözöt but lady said kitchen open at 11am . Next time . Anyway I’m so happy we have this little Hungarian spot in middle of the city! We are a returning costumers from years even just pick up something for my family but I also love to bring here my friends who’s from different countries! I hope for the future will have a Hungarian person behind the cashier, so if someone have question like today she able to help. And don’t charge $1 for one cheese biscuit when this kind lady would like to try . But it’s not gonna change my mind from the Budapest Cafe so proud of them .

+2

Marko Javorsek

Great, simple and authentic Hungarian (broader central European) place. The strudels are great and a large selection of savoury and sweet ones. But they have amazing traditional dishes including goulash and stuffed peppers.

I recently visited Budapest Cafe, and it offered a charming and authentic introduction to Hungarian comfort food on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The café has a warm, neighborhood atmosphere that reflects the cozy character of traditional Central European cafés. The space is modest and inviting, making it an ideal setting for a relaxed meal where the focus is on classic recipes and comforting flavors. Hungarian cuisine is known for its use of paprika, slow-cooked meats, and rich stews, and the menu here highlights many of those traditional elements. One of the standout dishes was the goulash, which delivered a deep, savory flavor with a balanced blend of spices and tender pieces of meat. The broth carried the characteristic warmth of paprika without becoming overly heavy, creating a dish that felt both hearty and comforting. Another highlight was the selection of Hungarian-style pastries and desserts that reflect the café culture of Budapest. Items such as strudel and other baked goods offered a pleasant sweetness and balanced texture, making them perfect companions to coffee. These pastries are an important part of Hungarian culinary tradition, and the café captures that experience well. The menu also features classic Central European comfort dishes such as schnitzel and other traditional plates served with potatoes or cabbage-based sides. These dishes emphasize simple preparation and satisfying portions, which are hallmarks of Hungarian home-style cooking. Service during the visit was friendly and welcoming. Staff members maintained a relaxed and personable approach that made the dining experience feel comfortable and approachable. Their familiarity with the menu helped guide diners who may be less familiar with Hungarian cuisine. The overall atmosphere reinforces the café’s identity as a neighborhood restaurant where guests can enjoy traditional European comfort food in a relaxed setting. It is the type of place where diners can return regularly for dependable dishes and a welcoming environment. Overall, Budapest Cafe delivers a flavorful and authentic Hungarian dining experience with classic dishes, comforting flavors, and friendly service. It stands out as a unique destination for Central European cuisine on the Upper East Side.

An intro into Hungarian food. It’s alright. As a Hungarian it’s disappointing to see words spelled in-authentically and Americanized. It’s not goulash and paprikash. GULYÁS , PAPRIKÁS. Keep it authentic and true. Also I want lángos and more authentic palascinta (there’s too many). It feels like they are catering too much to what they think Americans want and losing the flair of Hungarian food. We have sooo many more/better foods it’s sad to not see it on their menu. I would go back.

Anwen Paul

Delicious pastries, lovely ambience. I loved the poppy strudel!

Marshall Shaffer

Solid spot for sweet and savory fare alike. Don’t let its modest looks deceive you.

Damir Ritosa

I was looking for a place in the city center where I could eat something cheap. The prices are really reasonable, and the food is as expected standard.

Bryan Lau

I think it’s not bad, but … that’s it? Overall the food was hearty, but the soup was oily and the cheese biscuits were stale. I think the chicken paprishka was good, but the noodles (some kind of spaetzel) were stuck together. The veal goulash looked watery. The lunch special is good value for sheer amount of food, but … it doesn’t compel me to go back.

Sherry Fernandes

I’ve been eating the 7 layered cake from here for so long… I eat a piece practically everyday. But today, the cake is different and I hate it! The top coating seems to be carlmelized sugar.. the chocolate layers aren’t as sweet and the bread is more crumbly. Did you guys run out of chocolate or changed the baker? I’m so so sad.. Here’s two pictures to show you the difference. I’m so sad.

Claudia D

With no exceptions they have sold me old super refrigerated, discolored pastries at very high prices. They only good thing about this place is the location. They vet away with poor quality due to little competition ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ Don't get tempted: the experience is invariably disappointing.

Ed P

One of the only Hungarian cafes left in Manhattan and under Hispanic ownership it has lost it’s authenticity. They rip you off every chance they get ( half portions for full Price see photos) and the food is warmed up in a microwave not freshly made. Needs new management!