I like to play a game when I come to Bookta, a former bookstore turned into café and perched on a slope on the Buda side of Margaret Bridge. A bookcase covers an entire wall of the coffeehouse, heavy with old books in Hungarian. I pick one, read a line and start writing. Even if I didn't understand the sentence, this ritual gets me cracking.
Bookta's specialty are its daily menus inspired by acclaimed locals writers. For example, a fancy Martini as an homage of "Mihály Babits"' passion for Italy, or a breakfast à la "Endre Ady", the narcissistic genius of poetry, who loved Paris and would probably go for Bookta's croissant breakfast.
How weird of an animal a writer is, with all his/her consolidated habits. Most masterpieces are the product of obsessions and strict principles. Dalì wrote limpid lines about his hate for spinach, while Balzac’s 50 cups a day are the proof I can have as many espressos as I like.
Bookta valued this aspect, with a pinch of imagination.
At night, I favour "Geza Csáth", the handsome and damned: between women, opium, alchohol and literature, he died at 32. Bookta remembers him with a Bloody Mary.
My favourite, Kosztolányi, is represented with a romantic cocktail in honor of his character "Anna Édes" (The Sweet Anna), but one of his poems glorifies his morning coffee and that's what I normally order. And what I get with it is also a vital source of inspiration.
Find your way with 171 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
The concept of Könyv Szekér in Budapest is to save books from being thrown out or destroyed — they are little mobile bookstores on old-school carriages!
by
Auróra in Budapest is a place to create, attend workshops, concerts, parties, rituals... It's a big survivor in the district and it keeps fighting!
by
Szabad Bisztró in Budapest has delicious vegan dishes and local drinks, but it's also associated with local initiatives, as with the terrace out front!
by
Szabó Ervin Library in Budapest has been my shelter many a time. The 100-year-old chairs & sofas create a unique atmosphere for studying or relaxing...
by
At Ignác, the well-thought touches thoroughly selected, often local products co-live nicely with each other, creating a welcoming, charming little space.
by
This small business is owned by a Dutch couple, and they happily offer their traditional toasts and specialities.
by
My go-to is the Diavola pizza (spicy Italian salami), which is baked to perfection, and let’s not forget about the four cheese pasta - a true masterpiece.
by
At Smashy, they keep it simple with just two burger options, both served with pickles, onions, burger cheese, and your choice of sauce.
by
This spot is located in the basement of Eötvös Loránd University, and I was fortunate enough to be introduced to this hidden gem by a dear friend.
by
171 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 171 Insider Tips