When you’re dining in the heart of Budapest overlooking the river Danube and the entire city, it’s hard not to feel a bit intimidated - in a good way. The Fisherman’s Bastion was built between 1895 and 1902 and inside of it, a beautiful restaurant unfolds. Join me for lunch here on a sunny afternoon in September. 

Panoramic view of Budapest
Located in the Buda Castle district, Fisherman’s Bastion (or ‘Halaszbastya’ in Hungarian) is one of the landmarks of Budapest as well as the most popular tourist destination in the area. On sunny days guests can choose to have their lunch or dinner at the Bastion’s terrace, which offers an amazing view of the city.

During my visit to Budapest in September I enjoyed a lunch in the old Bastion - something I would urge you to do as well, if you ever find yourself in the Hungarian capital! Delicious food and panoramic views characterizes the experience - and of course a lot of curious tourists, who can be a bit intimidating - but more about that later.

Majestic surroundings
Halaszbastya may be hard to pronounce, but it’s worth the visit! Round tables covered with crisp, white cloths, silverware and beautiful chandeliers greets you at the entrance alongside the majestic Knight Hall. The restaurant can seat up to 120 guests, but if you’re looking to have a romantic dinner date with your loved one, you should opt for the 2nd floor, which offers tables for two and breathtaking views. On the ground floor there’s room for larger groups and private parties, and the highest observation terrace of the Bastion, located above the restaurant, provides guests with the ultimate view of Budapest. Here one can sip on a drink or enjoy a cup of rum punch during the winter season. Not the worst way to spend an afternoon, if you ask me!

Hungarian and French flavors
The menu at Halaszbastya offers a delicate blend of traditional Hungarian dishes such as beetroot soup, beef goulash and chicken suprčme, but French delicacies such as Foie Gras, Salad Chèvre Chaud and Châteaubriand are also present. Portions are rather big, so if you’re not that hungry, go for a starter, a soup or a single main course accompanied by a glass of Hungarian wine. Halaszbastya offers an impressive wine and “champagne” list with wines from all regions of Hungary. 

Prices are very reasonable compared to other gourmet restaurants, as you will find starters from 11 EUR and main courses from 16,50 EUR. It’s recommended to book a table well in advance (especially for weekends), but bear in mind that crowds of tourists may also find their way to the restaurant, eager to photograph the beautiful surroundings and views. This is mainly during the day though.

Halaszbastya offers great food at reasonable prices in charming and majestic surroundings - and together with the rest of the bastion, it’s undoubtedly one of the main attractions of Budapest!

For more information go to www.halaszbastyan.eu.

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