In the early 1900s, at the iconic New York Café, it was common for poor writers to sit all day over just one coffee. But one particularly bold poet reportedly took it a step further. According to accounts, he would order nothing at all—just sit at a table, scribbling in his notebook, claiming the mere “atmosphere” was enough to sustain him.
After several days of this, the waiter finally approached and said politely, “Sir, the atmosphere is free, but the chair has rent.”
In the early 20th century, Budapest’s cafés flourished as intellectual hubs where writers, poets, and artists gathered. Iconic venues like New York Café, Centrál, and Gerbeaud were famous for their vibrant atmosphere and rich Austro-Hungarian cuisine. The interwar period (1920s-1930s) maintained this tradition, though economic challenges impacted the industry.
During World War II and the Communist era (1949-1989), many cafés were nationalized, repurposed, or closed, and a more utilitarian dining culture emerged with state-run eateries serving simple fare. Coffeehouses lost their creative spirit, becoming drab, controlled spaces.
After the fall of communism in 1989, Budapest’s café and restaurant scene revived, embracing both historic restorations and modern trends.