Last updated on November 19th, 2025 at 11:51 am
Hungary is a country where history, culture, and flavor come together on every plate. From the bustling streets of Budapest to the tranquil villages scattered across the countryside, Hungarian cuisine offers a culinary adventure like no other. Rich in paprika, hearty stews, and delicate pastries, the food here tells the story of a nation shaped by tradition and creativity.
For first-time visitors, navigating the Hungarian menu can feel overwhelming—but that’s part of the fun. This guide will introduce you to the most traditional, popular, and must-try dishes that capture the essence of Hungary. Whether you’re craving a steaming bowl of goulash, a crispy chimney cake, or a savory pancake, you’ll discover flavors that are as memorable as the country itself.
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Planning a trip to taste all of Hungary’s delights? Check out curated Budapest accommodations and food tours to make your culinary adventure effortless.
Best Hungarian Dishes to Try in Budapest
1. Gulyás (Goulash)
No visit to Hungary is complete without tasting gulyás, the dish that has become synonymous with the country itself. Often called Hungary’s national dish, goulash is more of a soup than a stew, made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a generous amount of sweet paprika, giving it that signature flavor. Traditionally cooked slowly in a cauldron over an open fire, this dish embodies the rustic charm and culinary heritage of Hungary. Because in Romania we have a large Hungarian population, in many parts of our country goulash is a common dish, both in restaurants and at home, but our version of it is more similar to pörkölt (next on the list). So it’s easy to see why I couldn’t wait to try the real deal as soon as I set foot in Budapest.
Gulyás isn’t just a meal—it’s a cultural experience. Originating from Hungarian herdsmen, it was a practical way to cook a filling dish while traveling across the plains. Today, it represents comfort, tradition, and a taste of Hungarian history. Gulyás is both satisfying and aromatic, often served with a slice of fresh bread or dumplings to soak up every drop of the rich, paprika-infused broth.
Pro Tip: When ordering, don’t hesitate to ask for a slightly spicier version with a pinch of hot paprika. Hungarians love their paprika, and a touch of heat enhances the deep, smoky flavors.
2. Pörkölt
If you thought gulyás was hearty, pörkölt takes Hungarian stews to another level. While it shares similarities with gulyás, pörkölt is thicker, richer, and almost always served with dumplings (nokedli) rather than bread. The dish typically features beef, pork, or lamb, slowly simmered with onions, paprika, and sometimes a touch of tomato paste to create a deep, savory flavor that melts in your mouth.
Pörkölt is a staple of Hungarian home cooking, representing the heart of family meals and traditional celebrations. Unlike gulyás, which is more of a soup, pörkölt is all about the concentrated, bold flavors. Each bite is comfort food at its finest—perfect for chilly Budapest evenings.
Pro Tip: Ordering pörkölt with nokedli is a must—the dumplings act like sponges, soaking up the rich sauce for maximum flavor. Some restaurants even offer variations with seasonal vegetables or game meat, giving adventurous eaters a unique twist on a classic.
3. Csirkepörkölt (Chicken Paprikash) with Nokedli
If you’re looking for a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and distinctly Hungarian, look no further than chicken paprikash, or csirkepörkölt. This iconic dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a rich, creamy paprika sauce, creating a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors. Traditionally, it’s served with nokedli, soft Hungarian dumplings that soak up every drop of the luscious sauce.
Csirkepörkölt is a beloved staple in Hungarian households, often associated with family dinners and festive occasions. The combination of paprika, sour cream, and slow-cooked chicken makes it both hearty and comforting, perfect for travelers who want to taste authentic home-style Hungarian cooking.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a glass of Hungarian white wine, like a crisp Furmint, for a complete culinary experience.
4. Halászlé (Fisherman’s Soup)
For a taste of Hungary’s riverside culinary tradition, halászlé, or fisherman’s soup, is a must-try. This vibrant, spicy soup is made with fresh river fish, most commonly carp, and a generous amount of paprika, giving it its signature red color and bold flavor. Served steaming hot, halászlé is both hearty and aromatic, perfect for warming up on a chilly day in Budapest.
Halászlé is more than just a soup—it’s a celebration of Hungary’s fishing culture. Each region has its own twist: the Szeged style is thick and spicy, while the Baja style often includes noodles and a slightly milder spice. Eating halászlé is a way to experience Hungary’s culinary diversity and centuries-old traditions all in one bowl.
5. Lángos
No trip to Budapest is complete without trying lángos, the city’s iconic deep-fried dough snack. Crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, lángos is traditionally topped with garlic, sour cream, and grated cheese, though modern variations include everything from ham and sausages to Nutella for dessert lovers.
To be completely honest, the first time I tried the classic lángos in Budapest, I didn’t like it and couldn’t bring myself to take more than 2 bites. The problem? The dough seemed too oily to me. I’m not sure if that really was the case, or I just had a sensitive stomach at the time, but a few years after, when I returned to Budapest, I decided to give it another try and the experience way better than the first. Since then, I tried many varieties of lángos, but the sweet ones are my favorites (especially with sour cream and fruit jams – yummm!).
Lángos is a quintessential Hungarian street food, beloved by locals and tourists alike. It’s affordable, filling, and perfect for a quick bite while exploring markets, streets, or festivals. Eating lángos is more than a snack—it’s a fun, casual way to taste Hungarian flavors while soaking in the city’s lively atmosphere.
Pro Tip: For the ultimate Hungarian experience, try a classic version with garlic, sour cream, and cheese before venturing into sweet or gourmet variations. Pair it with a refreshing local craft beer for a perfect snack break while sightseeing.
6. Crêpe dish (Hortobágyi Palacsinta)
If you’re looking for a unique twist on traditional Hungarian flavors, Hortobágyi Palacsinta is a must-try. These are thin crepes filled with a spicy meat stew, usually made from veal or chicken, and topped with a rich paprika sauce. Unlike sweet pancakes, this dish is a savory delight that perfectly balances tender meat, aromatic paprika, and soft, delicate crepes.
Hortobágyi Palacsinta was created for the 1958 Brussels World Fair to showcase Hungarian cuisine to the world. Today, it’s a staple in Hungarian restaurants and a favorite among locals and travelers seeking a sophisticated yet comforting dish. Its combination of textures and flavors makes it an unforgettable culinary experience.
Pro Tip: Pair your Hortobágyi Palacsinta with a glass of Hungarian red wine blend, like Egri Bikavér, to enhance the paprika’s richness. Asking for a slightly spicier sauce can also bring out deeper flavors without overwhelming the palate.
7. Cottage cheese pasta (túrós csusza)
For those seeking simple, hearty Hungarian comfort food, Túrós Csusza is a must-try. This dish features homemade pasta tossed with creamy cottage cheese (túró) and crispy bacon, sometimes finished with a touch of sour cream. Its combination of soft, savory, and slightly tangy flavors makes it a beloved classic in Hungarian households.
Túrós Csusza is the ultimate home-cooked dish, often associated with family dinners and traditional celebrations. Its simplicity is deceptive—the flavors are perfectly balanced, creating a dish that is both filling and satisfying. Travelers get a true taste of Hungarian everyday cuisine when they try it.
Pro Tip: Pair it with a light Hungarian white wine for a complete meal that’s comforting yet sophisticated.
Hungarian Desserts
Hungarian cuisine isn’t just about hearty stews and dumplings—its desserts are world-famous for their richness, creativity, and sweet indulgence. From delicate pastries to layered cakes, these treats are a must for any traveler with a sweet tooth.
8. Chimney Cake (Kürtőskalács)
Kürtőskalács is a sweet, cylindrical pastry baked on a rotating spit, coated with sugar, cinnamon, or nuts. Known as chimney cake, it’s especially popular as street food at markets and festivals.
9. Layered Cake (Dobos Torta)
Dobos Torta is a layered sponge cake filled with chocolate buttercream and topped with a crisp caramel layer. Invented by Hungarian confectioner József Dobos in the 19th century, this cake is a symbol of elegance and Hungarian baking tradition.
10. Hungarian Strudel (Rétes)
Rétes is a thin, flaky pastry filled with apple, cherry, poppy seed, or sweet cottage cheese. There are also other varieties with different kinds of fruit jams, like apricot or plum, but not as common. It’s enjoyed as dessert, snack, or breakfast, and is a staple in cafés across Budapest. You can pair with a glass of Tokaji dessert wine to elevate the flavors.
Traditional Hungarian Drinks
Hungarian cuisine is not just about food—the drinks are just as iconic. From unique spirits to world-famous wines, trying these beverages is a great way to experience Hungary’s culture and flavors.
11. Unicum
Unicum is a herbal liqueur made from over 40 herbs and spices, known for its bitter-sweet, complex flavor. Traditionally enjoyed as a digestif, it’s considered a national treasure. Sip it neat or chilled after a hearty meal to aid digestion.
12. Pálinka
Pálinka is a strong fruit brandy made from plums, apricots, cherries, or pears. With a fruity aroma and warming finish, it’s often served before meals or at celebrations.
13. Hungarian Wines
Hungary produces world-class wines, both sweet and dry. Must-tries include Tokaji (sweet dessert wine, known as the “Wine of Kings”) and Egri Bikavér (Bull’s Blood), a robust red wine with a rich history.
Whether you want to enjoy a wine tasting in the city, a meal paired with local vintages, or a day trip to a nearby winery, these experiences let you savor Hungary’s viticultural heritage in style. Click here to check the latest prices and book wine tastings, meals with wine pairings, or winery tours, as per your preference.
14. Hungarian Beer
Hungary’s craft beer scene has grown rapidly, offering refreshing lagers, pilsners, and IPAs. Popular local brands include Dreher, Borsodi, and small-batch craft breweries around the city.
Exploring the city’s local breweries, cozy pubs, and taprooms is a must for beer enthusiasts, whether you want to taste a variety of styles or learn about the brewing process. Click here to check the latest prices and book a guided craft beer tour, pub crawl, or brewery experience that lets you sample the best beers Budapest has to offer.
Planning Your Culinary Adventure
Exploring Hungary’s culinary scene is an unforgettable experience, but planning ahead can make your trip even smoother and more enjoyable. From flights to local tours, here’s how to make the most of your gastronomic adventure in Budapest and beyond.
Flights to Hungary
Finding the best flights ensures you start your journey stress-free. Look for convenient options to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport, with flights from major European and global hubs.
Accommodation
Budapest offers a wide range of stays, from boutique hotels and cozy guesthouses to modern apartments and luxury options. Staying centrally will make it easier to explore markets, restaurants, and street food hotspots.
Culinary Tours and Experiences
To truly dive into Hungarian cuisine, consider guided food tours, cooking classes, or market excursions. These experiences let you taste dishes like gulyás, lángos, and Dobos Torta while learning the stories behind them. Click here to book food-focused tours, cooking classes, and wine or craft beer tasting experiences across Budapest.
Car Rentals and Day Trips
While Budapest is perfect for walking and public transport, a rental car opens the door to vineyard visits, countryside restaurants, and regional delicacies. [Insert affiliate link here] to reserve a car and explore Hungarian towns and wineries at your own pace.
Conclusion: Traditional Hungarian Foods & Drinks
Hungarian cuisine is a rich tapestry of flavors, history, and tradition, from hearty stews like gulyás and pörkölt to indulgent desserts and world-class wines. Exploring Budapest and the Hungarian countryside through its food is one of the most memorable ways to experience the culture, whether you’re sampling street food, savoring a traditional meal, or enjoying a wine or craft beer tasting.
Planning ahead makes your culinary journey easier and more enjoyable. From flights and accommodation to food tours, cooking classes, and day trips to nearby wineries, there are countless ways to immerse yourself in the flavors of Hungary. [Insert affiliate links here] to book your flights, hotels, tours, and experiences—so you can focus on tasting, exploring, and enjoying every bite.
No matter your travel style, Hungary’s food and drink scene promises a delicious adventure you’ll never forget. So pack your appetite and get ready to discover the dishes, desserts, and drinks that make this country a true culinary destination.