The city certainly does not sleep at night and the most unusual places that one could visit in Budapest are the ruin bars. Ruin bars can be found in Budapest, they are quite unique and have become a distinctive identity of Budapest nightlife. These bars are situated in deserted buildings and yards; sometimes, they have rather eccentric interior and mood. In this guide, we will look at some of the most popular ruin bars according to the Reddit community within Budapest.
1. Szimpla Kert
Among the ruin bars Szimpla Kert is one of the most well-known bars in Budapest. With a location in the Jewish district of Budapest Szimpla Kert is somewhat of a maze furnished with old furniture, bicycles and graffiti art. The bar offers various spaces; the main areas are located at different floors or in separate zones as it has a unique theme in each of them. People can have cocktails while watching a musician, DJ, or movie if you fancy it or have a drink and simply lie down in one of the comfortable areas. Informally known as ‘the ruin’, Szimpla Kert is the original venue that started Budapest’s ruin bar trend.
2. Instant
Instant is also another famous ruin bar which is found close to Gozsdu Udvar. This bar presents a multi-level concept while physically designing it to comprise several rooms that feature different music styles. Remember techno, hip-hop and if you prefer the other genres of music, Instant has what you need. The interior design is eclectic with combination of fun arts and vintage elements in addition to a very relaxed atmosphere. But don’t let this discourage you from visiting because they have an amazing “ruin garden” upstairs where you can take a break from the fun and dance.
3. Fogasház
Fogasház is another local favorite restaurant with a name translated to English as “The Dentist”. It features a more edgy feel, more of a ruin bar feeling than many of the other ruin bars in Budapest. Tucked under a bridge and with the brick walls and very low lighting, Fogasház pub is quite raw. Among them, it is involved in the presentation of live music and giving out art exhibitions among others. You will find the rooftop terrace on the top floor and it is great for getting a view of the topography of Budapest while having your drink.
4. Mazel Tov
If you fancy going to a ruin bar but with a hint of class then Mazel Tov is is most definetly the ruin bar for you. In a locale where once was a glass production factory, this bar has industrial feel but a contemporary look. There is a large opening for a front-yard as it is filled with green plants and PLIGHTS which make the vicinity so warm and welcoming. Mazel Tov features a vast array of specials drinks: cocktails and mouthwatering Middle Eastern dishes. That is why it is an ideal place to relax after the wearisome day spent in the city and what is more important for the prices in Spectators Café are rather moderate.
5. Kuplung
Kuplung restaurant can be found well disguised in the middle of the lively city centre. This abandon ruin now doubles up as a ruin bar and was fitted with a courtyard, an open space for dancing, and the bar. It has old fashioned furniture, bright and unique drawings on the walls inside. Kuplung has always been famous for playing indie and rock and sometimes even the electronic beats. It is rather perfect for getting to know the locals and have a night out in a relatively small establishment.
Conclusion
Just visiting the ruin bars should be an expedition on its own. All of them are pretty different and each of them has its own atmosphere and MNV. If you like art, love music, or just want to feel the pure spirit of bohemia these places will be interesting to you. You will want to check the opening times and such, although some might have specific designated events for live performances, art displays, or themed events. That’s what it feels like to party in Budapest’s best ruin bar!
