A Cup of Coffee with a Colorful History

You’ll certainly agree that enjoying a cup of premium tea or coffee is one of the pleasures of life. 

 But that experience is made even richer when sipping on the delightful beverage at a café in a fabulous destination. 

Among the more popular locations, Budapest boasts the most number of cafes.  They’ve been around since the 1900s.  They’re the place to see and be seen, to meet with friends or business associates.  They’re the spots where politicians planned revolutions, where literary personalities were inspired, and where still today, millions of people spend hours of their time. 

For the refined, the selection is simply impressive.  Among the best favored, “The New York” still maintains the elegance and style that lured intellectuals in the 19th century.

Another icon of the “coffee culture” is Ruszwurm.  It’s situated in the heart of the castle district.  Built in 1824, it’s a sumptuous baroque style mansion.   Still today it continues to awe guests with an exquisite menu of pastries.  It was closed during the time of the War of Independence, when the owner of Ruszwurm was imprisoned.  But to the benefit of the world and everyone with a “sweet tooth,” his prison mate, Rudolf Linzer, aided him in the creation of the delicious Linzer torte, now a requested treat by many. 

And don’t miss the chance for a “cup of delight” at Café Gerbeaud, one of Europe’s oldest and best-known cafes.  Inaugurated by Swiss Chef Emile Gerbeaud, it showcases all the tasty inventions from her kitchen.  Of the not to be missed, the chocolate-covered cherries and the walnut cake with jam filling, are but a few of the specialties.  Delicate teas and bold coffees are a mere bonus to the ambience and pleasure one draws from a visit to this landmark.

Of the truly controversial venues, Café Central is as rich in history as is in allure.  Featuring reserved tables for frequenting celebs, over one hundred newspapers for guests to read, and a line-up of sublime blends from around the globe, it would be a shame not to experience it. 

So when the mood strikes for that perfect cup of coffee or tea, there’s a table at a Budapest café just for you.