Where history whispers
and flavours turn into legends.
A bite of history
A place where the walls hold centuries-old secrets, where apostles watch, and every bite evokes the flavours of a bygone era with the bold piquancy of the present. The Apostol Restaurant is not just a restaurant – it’s a living time travel to turn-of-the-century Budapest, where the finest Hungarian cuisine meets the historical milieu. Step into the heart of this curiosity, designed in 1894 and now a protected historical monument, and experience this unique journey.
Opening in 1903
The story of the Apostolok Restaurant began in 1903 when János Förster opened his beer hall. The establishment quickly became popular, thanks in part to being the exclusive distributor of Löwenbräu beer from Munich in Hungary. Originally operating under the name “Beer and Wine Hall Dedicated to the Apostles,” it became a favourite meeting place for the citizens of Budapest. Based on the surviving guest book and old postcards, its clientele can be reconstructed: students and everyday people frequented the place just as much as celebrities, actresses, writers, and poets.
The Building and Interior: Henrik Schmahl and the Renovations
The building that houses the restaurant was designed by Henrik Schmahl in 1894. It took on its current form during a renovation in 1913. The unique atmosphere of the interior is defined by mosaics depicting the apostles, created by Imre Zsellér, and the distinctive alcove-style layout. These features lend the restaurant a truly special character. The furnishings and decorations of the rooms have preserved their original condition, offering our guests a genuine journey back in time.
A Family Legacy: The Era of Miklós and Pál Förster
In the 1930s, the founder’s sons, Miklós and Pál Förster, took over the management of the restaurant. During this period, the establishment was already operating under the name “Beer and Wine Hall Dedicated to the Apostles,” and it expanded its services to include full restaurant offerings. In 1929, a small hall was added, known as the Irredenta Room. Its furnishings are similar to those of the main hall, but the booths are distinguished by cityscape artworks depicting iconic buildings and famous natives of cities that were ceded after the Treaty of Trianon, serving as a tribute to the lost territories.
1973
Since 1973, the interior spaces of the Apostolok Restaurant have been under historic preservation, safeguarding the atmosphere of the early 20th century and its cultural heritage. Our guests can savour the flavours of traditional Hungarian cuisine, infused with a touch of modern boldness, all while enjoying a unique setting that stands as a true rarity in Budapest.
We welcome you to Apostolok daily, from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., for an exceptional dining experience.
CONTACT
OUR LOCATION:
Kígyó utca 4-6.
1052 Budapest
CONTACT US
+36 1 294 92 61
foglalas@apostolok.hu
OPENING HOURS
Every day
11:00-23:00