Budapest has a lot to offer from its magnificent architecture through historical spas to its ever – evolving gastronomy scene, one can never get enough of it. Hereby we offer you a selection of bistros and restaurants in the downtown area, where you can stop by to have a healthy brunch or if your time allows have a wonderful culinary experience. If you are nearby the Saint Stephen’s Basilica, don’t miss the opportunity to try the contemporary dishes of Société Bistro, located at 15. Sas street in District V. The restaurant offers an elegant and relaxing atmosphere that will make you forget the noise of the city. On its exquisite a la carte menu you can find dishes like the juicy and soft saddle of venison with celery roots and pear that conquers even the most exquisite palates or the Mangalica (Hungarian wild pork) pork blade roast with pearl barley and red cabbage. In addition, you can choose from over a 100 types of Hungarian fine wines. They also offer a 2 or 3 course lunch menu from 12:00 to 15:00 pm daily. Note, the Bistro is open from Tuesday to Saturday. Go to profile Another restaurant nearby the Basilica is Traktor, where carefully selected seasonal products are used to prepare the restaurant’s delicious dishes. The menu is based on local vegetables, fresh water and salt water fish, poultry and red meat. However, it is a good option for vegetarians and vegans as well. Their signature dishes include the roasted duck breast with honey glaze, pumpkin and red cabbage but you can find Hungarian classics such as the chicken paprikash and Mangalica ham as well. Marty’s kitchen & bar, located at Vörösmarty tér 5 in District V may be a good option after walking or shopping around Váci utca. The restaurant offers a wide range of healthy options from all around the world including Hungarian dishes. There are quick breakfasts like bio yogurt, homemade granola and nutritive grandma style breakfast but you can choose from hearty brunch options such as the Hungarian or the French breakfast. In case you arrive at lunchtime the restaurant offers a daily menu, which also have a healthier, so called light options such as salmon steak with mint quinoa, homemade hummus or quinoa tabbouleh salad. Go to profile If you are visiting the Parliament building and fancy some nice Mexican food, Iguana Bar & Grill offers a wide selection of quesadillas, chili con carnes, tacos and enchiladas. This cosy Mexican – American restaurant, located a few steps from the Parliament and the beautiful Freedom Square, is one of the best of its kind in town, serving guests since 1997. Besides authentic Mexican dishes you can find juicy burgers and sandwiches here, which you can wash down with Mexican beer and cocktails such as the La Paloma made of 100 % agave tequila, fresh pink grapefruit juice, lime and soda water. After visiting the Parliament, near the Margaret Bridge you can find the cosy Cin Cin Bistro. The restaurant offers a wide selection of dishes, daily breakfast/brunch all day long, burgers, soups and main international and Hungarian dishes such as giant Wiener schnitzel or the wonderful Hungarian sweet dish Túrógombóc, made of cottage cheese and bread crumbs topped with sour cream and icing sugar. The restaurant is family and child friendly place in case you are accompanied with youngsters. Go to profile If you are on the Buda side near the Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Mona Bar & Restaurant awaits you with its minimalist environment at 30 Fő Street. It is a perfect place to spend time with friends and family. You can find some truly local dishes here, ones that are rare in typical restaurants but Hungarians eat on a daily basis such as the Hungarian potato graten with buffalo sour cream or the breaded pork chop with mashed potato and pickles. Enjoy your meal with a large selection of wines and beers or refreshing cocktails such as Bloody Marie and Bombay & Tonic and various other beverages. Go to profile Photo: Pexels