Published: February 14, 2024
Updated: February 14, 2024
Alright, imagine this: The New York Café in Budapest, crowned by U City Guide as the most beautiful café not once but twice in a row, has been tearing it up online again this year. Visitors from afar don’t just see it as a must-visit when in Hungary; they’re putting it on their bucket lists as a “once in a lifetime” experience. Someone from The Sun even gushed, “Cafés are just not the same anywhere else as they are in Budapest!” Meanwhile, Hand Luggage Only shared a video that shows off the café’s stunning architecture, the serenading classical music, and the gourmet delights that’ll have your mouth watering.
A Century of Literary Café Culture: The Legacy of New York Café
In the 1870s, a young man from Upper Hungary, Max Aufricht, arrived in Pest with a teacher’s diploma and a silver florin, eager to seek his fortune. Transforming from a teacher to a successful lawyer and eventually a director at New York Life Insurance Company, Aufricht’s ambition led to the creation of a Hungarian network for the company, culminating in the construction of the New York Palace. Designed by Alajos Hauszmann with Flóris Korb and Kálmán Giergl, the palace and its ground-floor café, adorned with 14 devil sculptures and luxurious interiors, quickly became the heart of literary and artistic life in Budapest.
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The New York Café, with its extravagant décor and inclusive atmosphere, attracted a diverse crowd from aristocrats to bohemians. The café’s democratic nature, symbolized by Molnár Ferenc’s gesture of throwing the café’s keys into the Danube to keep it open day and night, made it a haven for intellectuals and artists. The Harsányi brothers, who took over the café in the 1900s, introduced “írótál” (writer’s plate), a budget-friendly option for writers, enhancing the café’s role as a literary hub.
Throughout the 20th century, the New York Café saw various transformations, including a brief period as an espresso bar and sports equipment store post-World War II. It was renamed Hungária in 1954, maintaining a semblance of its former glory and continuing to attract new generations of writers and editors. Today, known once again as the New York Café, it remains a symbol of Budapest’s rich cultural heritage, embodying the spirit of a century’s worth of literary and artistic discourse.
The New York Café’s journey from a bustling insurance company headquarters to a cultural landmark reflects the evolving dynamics of Budapest’s social and cultural life. Its enduring legacy as a space for creativity and community highlights the intrinsic value of such institutions in fostering cultural identity and memory. As the café enters its second century, it stands not just as a monument to Hungary’s past but as a testament to the timeless allure of places that bring people together in the pursuit of art, conversation, and inspiration.
From Paper to Legend: The Birth of “The Paul Street Boys”
The New York Café isn’t just any café; it’s an eternal hotspot of Hungarian literary life, swarmed today mostly by tourists and art aficionados. No wonder the queue often stretches to Blaha! But trust me, for a dip into the legendary 19th-century café culture and to bask in the glory of gold, marble, wood, and crystal, it’s worth the wait.
A Masterpiece in Every Corner: Hauszmann’s Legacy
It’s no shocker the New York Café bagged the title of the world’s most beautiful. Originally serving as the headquarters for the New York Life Insurance Company, this eclectic, four-story marvel was conjured up by none other than Alajos Hauszmann, with a little help from his friends. Known for his work on the Royal Palace and numerous Renaissance, Baroque, and Art Nouveau masterpieces, Hauszmann’s pièce de résistance was undoubtedly this café, which instantly became the haunt for scribes and poets alike upon its opening in 1894.
“No Literature Without a Coffee House”
Brimming with writers and poets, the New York Café has been the cradle for countless literary works. It was a regular haunt for the likes of Ady, Illyés, Babits, Móricz, Gárdonyi, Karinthy, Kosztolányi, and Weöres. Not just a “workroom” for these literary giants, but a place for lively discussions. It even hosted the Pesti Napló editorial office and the legendary Nyugat magazine. Critics gathered around the “kidney table,” and when the artists were strapped for cash, the “writer’s plate” – a cold platter of meat, cheese, and bread – was their salvation, affordably priced or even on credit.
Grabbing a Spot at the New York Café: The Insider’s Guide
If you’re planning to dive into the timeless elegance of the New York Café, here’s the skinny on snagging a table. With its fame reaching the far corners of the globe, securing a spot can be a bit of an adventure.
Morning till Dusk: The Walk-In Saga
From the crack of dawn till 6 in the evening, it’s a wild west of walk-ins. No reservations, no promises – just you, your charm, and maybe a bit of luck. But don’t sweat it; the staff are like seating ninjas, doing their utmost to get you nestled in with your coffee and cake as swiftly as possible.
Evening Plans? Reserve Away!
Got your heart set on a dinner date amidst the grandeur? Post- 6 pm is your magic hour, and here’s the deal – fill out the reservation form below, and bam! You’ll get a confirmation within 24 hours. Did you miss the reservation train? Fear not! Swing by anyway. We keep a few tables up our sleeves for spontaneous visitors like you.
Pro Tips for the Eager Café-goer:
- Early Bird or Night Owl? Pick your time wisely. Mornings and afternoons are for the spontaneous, and evenings are for the planners.
- Reservation Roulette: Playing it by ear after 6 pm? There’s always a shot for the unreserved – it’s like the secret menu of seating options.
- Patience is Key: The New York Café experience is worth the wait, so bring your best stories and patience. Who knows? The queue might just be part of the adventure.
Operating Hours: Open All Week!
Whether it’s a Monday blues coffee or a Sunday night cap, we’re here for you from 8 am to midnight, every single day.
Remember: At the New York Café, every visit is a chance to steep yourself in a rich brew of history and culture. We can’t wait to welcome you into the fold. Thanks for rolling with the punches and understanding the hustle and bustle of café life!
Pro Tips from a Café Connoisseur
- Queue Like a Pro: If you’re itching for that magical café vibe, brace yourself for the queue. But hey, for an authentic dive into café culture and possibly the best coffee of your life, it’s a small price to pay.
- Embrace the Ink: Inspired by the café’s literary legacy? Whip out your notebook and pen. Just try not to spill ink on the couch, lest you want to invoke the ghost of Karinthy and become part of café lore.
- Café Etiquette 101: If you’re swept off your feet by the New York Café’s grandeur, resist the urge to toss the keys into the Danube. We’d like it to stay open for future visits, thank you very much.
FAQs for New York Café
What makes New York Café stand out?
New York Café is renowned for its breathtaking interior, which features opulent decorations, majestic chandeliers, and ornate ceilings, making it one of the most beautiful cafés globally. Its historical significance and the role it has played in Budapest’s cultural life add to its allure.
Can you dine at New York Café without a reservation?
While walk-ins are welcome, reservations are highly recommended due to the café’s popularity, especially during peak hours or seasons. Booking a table in advance ensures a seamless experience.
What type of cuisine is served at New York Café?
New York Café offers a diverse menu that includes traditional Hungarian dishes, international cuisine, and a selection of desserts, coffees, and beverages, all prepared with a touch of elegance and sophistication.
Is New York Café suitable for special occasions?
Absolutely. Its grand setting makes it a perfect venue for celebrating special occasions such as anniversaries, birthdays, or romantic dinners. The café’s ambiance adds a memorable touch to any celebration.
How can visitors learn more about New York Café or make a reservation?
For the most accurate and up-to-date information, including how to make a reservation, visitors should refer to the official website of New York Café or contact them directly via phone or email.
New York Café invites everyone to step into a world where history meets luxury, offering a unique dining experience that goes beyond mere gastronomy to become a journey through the cultural heart of Budapest.
Conclusion
The New York Café, Europe’s most beautiful café, elevates a coffee experience into an unforgettable journey. With live music from a gypsy band to a bar pianist, it’s a feast for the senses. Yes, it’s pricey, but for the quality, ambiance, and service, it’s worth it. Make sure to book in advance to avoid the wait and fully immerse in this exquisite setting. Despite criticisms of high prices and a touristy atmosphere, the café’s charm and elegance remain undiminished, offering a glimpse into a luxurious past. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a blend of culinary excellence and historical opulence, even if it means navigating the crowds or facing a long wait without a reservation.
