Boutiq Bar

Hiding on a side street near the city center, Boutiq is an upscale cocktail bar that pioneered Budapest's craft cocktail movement under the helm of owner Zoltán Nagy. Maroon-colored walls and dim lighting project speakeasy vibes into the snug space, where each bartender partakes in a rigorous training process before being permitted behind the bar. They serve the drinks with a laser-like focus and a bit of theatrics.

The cocktail menu features a dozen or so of Boutiq's own concoctions, but they will also make a classic Manhattan or Sazerac if that's more your speed. For a local angle, try the Budapest Spritz, featuring Unicum, the iconic Hungarian herbal liqueur. Boutiq Bar isn't cheap – most mixed drinks run €10-13 – but the place can stand up to any cocktail bar around the world, both in terms of ambiance and technical knowledge. Advance booking is recommended for Fridays and Saturdays.