3 things to do in the secret Chinatown of Budapest
3 things to do in the secret Chinatown of Budapest
Chinatown Budapest, Hungary is the place to go for good Asian food and to get away from the tourist track. If you need some Chinese products, you can get it there too!
Did you know Budapest has a Chinatown? It might not be strung up with paper lanterns like the Chinatowns you see in the movies or in other cities, but step inside this curious part of Budapest, and you might be mistaken you’ve stepped through a porthole into Asia. You’ll mostly find wholesale stores and warehouses, but you’ll also find some great places to eat traditional Chinese food. If you’re sick of the sugar-laden Chinese cuisine you find downtown (which, to be honest, all kind of tastes the same) then you’ll want to head up to Kőbánya (Budapest’s X District) for some real Chinese food. So, read on to learn all about this interesting part of town, what to see, and, most importantly, where to eat!
Explore the Four Tigers Market
If you’ve already ticked off Budapest’s main tourist attractions and are looking for something a bit different, consider a visit to the Four Tigers Market. Located on the border between Kőbánya (District X) and the outer part of Józsefváros (District VIII), this market is set in a cluster of old industrial buildings once used by the Hungarian National Railways, now marked with Chinese signage.
Known officially as the Józsefváros Market, the area serves mainly as a wholesale hub for the Hungarian Chinese community. While many shops here cater to businesses and bulk buyers, the market is still an interesting place to explore. The atmosphere is unique, offering a glimpse into a lesser-known side of Budapest that might remind you more of a backstreet in Guangzhou or Shanghai than Central Europe.
The market has undergone changes in recent years and is more orderly than in the past. While it once had a somewhat controversial reputation, daytime visits are generally safe, and the area is much calmer than it used to be. Though you may not shop much here, walking around can still be a fascinating cultural experience — a true off-the-beaten-path spot in the city.
Culinary journey at the Monori Center (Jegenye utca)
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, the Monori Center is only a little further away from the center in the X District (also called Kőbánya). It’s about 30 minutes within walking distance from the Four Tigers Market (or just hop on the tram for a couple of stops), but you’ll find the atmosphere is a little different here. The buildings are new, and again, mostly wholesale shops, but you won’t spot any gambling going on and it looks more like a business district in Asia. However, what you will notice is the smell of delicious food as you walk the streets here.
Although the Monori Center focuses more on wholesale stores, most come here for the Chinese restaurants, which are all excellent. You won’t find any fancy places, but you can be sure you’ll get good, authentic Chinese food (at reasonable prices too). The most famous is the He He Chinese Restaurant, which is a no-frills restaurant on two levels, serving freshly cooked Szechuan cuisine. Try the spicy chicken or the homemade tofu here, or the dumplings. You can be sure you won’t leave hungry!
Other restaurants to try around the Monori Center include Spicy Fish (Jegenye utca 26/8.) and Wan Hao Étterem (Jegenye utca 30.) (Jegenye utca = Jegenye street) to name a few.
Grab Chinese street food at the night market
In the summer, the parking lot by the Wan Hao Étterem in the Monori Center becomes an open-air authentic asian street food extravaganza. From 5 pm in the evenings, the restaurants in the area serve delicious food from kiosks and trucks camped out here, from barbecued meats and dumplings to hot pots, soups and more. You can get a table under the huge canopy and order the food you want to try from the numerous food stalls. It’s a fun way to try the best food in Budapest’s Chinatown. On weekends, the Nightmarket sometimes hosts live music or shows, so the atmosphere can be quite festive.
Pro tip: You can also enjoy Asian food at Budapest’s top 7 shopping malls, such as Westend or Arena Mall.
FAQ
What is Chinatown Budapest?
Chinatown Budapest refers to the vibrant Chinese community located primarily in the Kőbánya district of Budapest, Hungary. This area is known for its rich cultural offerings, including various Chinese restaurants and eateries.
Where can I find Chinese restaurants in Chinatown Budapest?
In Chinatown Budapest, you can discover numerous Chinese restaurants that serve authentic dishes. Many of these establishments are popular for their street food options, providing a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine.
What is the Monori Center?
The Monori Center is a notable location within the Chinatown area, known for housing various Chinese businesses, including grocery stores and eateries that cater to the local Chinese community.
Is Chinatown Budapest a good place to experience Chinese culture?
Yes, Chinatown Budapest offers a unique opportunity to experience Chinese culture in Hungary. Visitors can enjoy traditional festivals, culinary delights, and cultural events organized by the Chinese community.
How can I get to Chinatown Budapest?
Chinatown Budapest is accessible via public transportation. You can take the metro or bus to the Kőbánya area, where the heart of the Chinese community is located.
More interesting and useful tips
The central market hall is one of the most iconic places in the capital of Hungary. If you visit Budapest, check out this nice market which offers you the best food and delicacies. In the market hall, you can try the best street foods in Budapest, as well as sample local spices, fruits, and vegetables.
If you want to know where to buy the best food and drinks in Budapest, this grocery store list is just for you!
