Cube Coffee Bar

A small little coffee shop located right across from a park and morning market, Cube Coffee Bar is perfect for an afternoon unwind. Try one of their vegan pastries or stick with a simple, quality coffee, with alternative milk options available. Here you can also try an espresso tonic, which is slowly gaining popularity with discerning locals in Europe. It is exactly what is sounds like - espresso poured over tonic - with a generous helping of ice. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, it’s definitely worth a try - we find espresso tonic to be a refreshing alternative to the standard iced coffee. Be aware, however, that it is definitely more on the bitter side!

Massolit Books & Cafe

A favorite with booklovers and old souls alike, stepping inside this cafe & foreign language bookshop immediately invokes a feeling of comfort and familiarity, like coming home after a long vacation. The books lining the walls invite you to pick one up and settle in for an hour or two, lingering over your latte and pastry. It’s conveniently situated near many of the popular ruin pubs of Budapest, in case you’re keen for a casual drink after your relaxing afternoon.

Jedermann Cafe

Set right next to the Goethe Institut, you’ll find that this cafe is not just for students. Rather, its eclectic mix of rugs and embroidered tablecloths, and the drifting smells of espresso beans and warm soups draw in people from all walks of life, from old to young and everyone in-between. Its intimate atmosphere creates a welcoming hangout to relax or meet with friends. On a hot day, you can retire to the courtyard out back with your drink to catch the afternoon breeze. Be sure to check the schedule online for live music in the evenings.

Analog Cafe / Printa

While not technically considered traditional cafes, Analog Cafe and Printa are not to be overlooked. These art & design shops are a 5 minute walk from each other and are unique spots to stop for a quick coffee. At Analog Cafe, located in the back of an analog camera store, you’ll find an espresso machine serving fine Italian coffee with a side of friendly chat from the store clerk about film photography. Drink your beverage while standing, as the Italians do, as this “cafe” does not offer seating, but encourages you to take a look at the fun, fascinating items for sale and engage in inspiring conversation about the activities and workshops they occasionally host.

Printa is an environmentally conscious shop showcasing Hungarian designs, making for original souvenirs to take back that support the local artistic community in Budapest. Take a seat and sip on a delicious cup while contemplating which of the stylish, beautiful items to purchase.

Vinyl & Wood

The centralized location in Budapest’s Jewish quarter makes this tiny cafe perfect for travelers looking for a little R&R after a night of all-you-can-drink happy hours and hectic pub crawls. Take your brew upstairs and chill out in a cool atmosphere or stay below and grab a seat at the window for some pensive people watching.

Although it may be better known for wild parties and gorgeous architecture, Budapest is by no means short on cool, alternative cafes for you to enjoy. Feel free to use this guide or simply take a stroll around some of the districts - you’re sure to find a cozy corner for a cuppa coffee on practically every street.