Urban Betyár – Budapest, Hungary

The restaurant is unique for several different reasons, not the least of which is its historical connection to the very first train robbery in Europe! This being an interesting tidbit for any guest coming to the Urban Betyár, you’ll note the train tracks that hang above the bar now, not only as a part of their stunning and innovative décor, but also as a historical memorial piece.

To see more photos of Urban Betyár, click here

The modern sliding doors to the kitchen are also a nice touch, along with their comfortable half sofas, which are raised to the table, both for guests’ comfort and convenience.

While the restaurant has only been open two years, in this short amount of time it’s already gained notable praise. In fact, in 2017 it was rated the best place in Budapest to hold conferences. Which is saying a lot considering how many local and international businessmen and women spend their time in the capital. This being said, it should be too obvious to need to state that the restaurant not only welcomes guests for dinner, but also has large enough conference rooms for groups between 20-100 people.

But perhaps the most exotic thing about the restaurant is their folk museum located on the ground floor. The owner, Gábor Leidal, has a passion for collecting folk memorabilia as a personal hobby. He decided to recreate the downstairs of the restaurant as a showcase of Hungarian folk history for guests to view free of charge. The museum is rather interesting, and even has on display furniture dating back 150 years! The contrast between the dining area upstairs and the way Hungarians use to live as a centerpiece downstairs, is a stark reminder of just how far we’ve come in western society.

And the name? Well we’re clear on Urban, but what is Betyár? Betyár is “Highwayman” in Hungarian. The name refers to the horsemen out in the great plains of Hungary. Perhaps the bit more malevolent of the bunch, the name nonetheless insinuates a more citified version of this highwayman.

Now onto the food, because that’s really why we’re here, isn’t it?

The food is unbelievable, and I’m not just saying that. From their appetizers to their entrees, you won’t make any mistakes no matter what you order here at Urban Betyár. While the more popular dishes that people opt for are the porterhouse steak or the beef Wellington, you can’t go wrong with their traditional Hungarian Gulyas soup or their Hungarian Paprikas Csirke (chicken paprika). And if you’re looking for a killer appetizer, do try their

Apple-avocado rib-eye steak salad. Oh my gosh. I had to finish it. It was that good.

And if you’re in the mood, you might also try their house specialty avocado cream (jam). It’s basically guacamole masquerading as a jam. So…basically it’s delicious.

Their wine selection is some of the best I’ve ever seen as well. Do try the Icon Tulipan red, which the manager personally recommended I try. While it was very strong, I appreciated the full body quality and presence. In fact, it was probably the best red wine I’ve ever had in Hungary. To date, at least.

In general, the attention to detail, the fine, classy atmosphere and the delicious food will leave you wanting to come back for more. While the prices are much higher than average, the quality of food, service and presentation is all worth it!

To learn more about Urban Betyár, click here: urbanbetyar.com