Csendes Létterem is a surreal ruin bar in the heart of Budapest, just a block away from Astoria and Kalvin Square. The interior is intense and colourful, everywhere we look, we can find a composition: contemporary art, second-hand treasures, toys and dozens of other objects while sitting beneath century-old chandeliers.
The classic interior is spiced up with knick-knacks and everyday objects, wall-drawings and colourful furniture, an ideal place to forget about your everyday problems and enjoy a drink or a meal in a unique ambience.
Csendes means quiet in Hungarian, but this Quiet Restaurant is not quiet at all, but a lively bar. In the programs, we can find popular DJ’s every weekend: they play soul, funk, jazz, lounge etc.
Csendes LÉtterem stands out from the other ruin bars, as it opens at 10 am for breakfast time, they operate as a café in the mornings and turn into a bohemian bar for the night. No wonder why it is a beloved café of the online nomades to have breakfast and work a bit.
Interesting fact, that this building housed the well-known Cafe Fiume and the plaquette outdoors is still reminding us that it has been found in 1883. Since then, a lot has changed, but the surrealistic decoration still keeps some of the memories of the forgotten times.
Csendes LÉtterem is a beloved spot of the tourists and locals, so why not check it out yourself?
Why not visit the best ruin bars with a professional guide? Book yourself a Ruin Bar Crawl for an unforgettable evening.
Address:
5 Ferenczy Istvan str., Budapest, 1053
Open:
Monday: 2pm- 0:00
Tuesday: 2pm- 0:00
Wednesday: 2pm- 0:00
Thursday: 2pm- 0:00
Friday: 2pm- 0:00
Saturday: 2pm- 0:00
Sunday: 3pm- 0:00
For a daytime or early evening drink in Budapest, Csendes Létterem (meaning ‘Quiet’) offers a unique ruin bar experience without the loud party atmosphere typical of other venues in the city. Formerly a literary café, Csendes has been reimagined with all the iconic ruin-bar elements: mismatched furniture, quirky decor, and a relaxed vibe that encourages conversation. The décor is intentionally eclectic, featuring mannequins, old toys, vintage knickknacks, abstract artwork, and century-old chandeliers. This creates a surreal, almost dreamlike setting, making Csendes the perfect spot for an intimate and laid-back drink in the heart of Budapest.
Located just a minute from the Astoria Hotel and two minutes from the National Museum, Csendes offers an authentic slice of Budapest without the feeling of being a tourist trap. This is a bar that caters to locals and visitors alike, providing quality drinks at fair prices in an atmosphere that feels genuine and unhurried. The music selection here is curated thoughtfully, and you might even catch an occasional acoustic night, adding to the unique ambiance. Csendes is the ideal place to soak up the creative spirit of Budapest, whether you’re winding down from a day of sightseeing or catching up with friends over a quiet drink.
One of the standout features of Csendes is its commitment to quality. Unlike other ruin bars focused on speed and quantity, Csendes stocks a selection of premium spirits that allow for an elevated drinking experience. Order a Malfy blood orange fizz—a refreshing mix of Italian gin, Hungarian cordial (known locally as “szörp”), and soda—or choose from an array of wines and classic cocktails. Every sip feels special in such an imaginative setting, and you’ll be glad you opted for something more offbeat than a pint of beer. By day, Csendes is more of a café, while in the evening, it transforms into a civilised bar that balances charm and quirkiness.
During summer, be sure to check out Csendes Társ (‘Companion’), a summer time outlet located just a few doors down. This wine bar puts out tables right at the entrance of Károlyi-kert, a charming green oasis in the inner city. With landscaped flowerbeds, statues, and a children’s playground, Károlyi-kert offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling streets, making it a perfect spot for sipping wine and unwinding. The gardens were landscaped by the noble Károlyi family in the 1700s and today provide a lovely setting for locals and tourists alike.
Csendes and Csendes Társ together offer a slice of Budapest’s bohemian spirit in a calm and atmospheric setting. If you’re staying nearby—around Astoria, Kálvin Square, or Ferenciek tere—you’ll find these spots conveniently close by. Enjoy the intimate and inviting vibe, and don’t forget to book ahead if you’re visiting with a group, as table reservations are limited to a maximum of eight people. Whether you’re exploring Budapest’s history or seeking a cozy evening with friends, Csendes is a unique and memorable stop on your journey.
Hello the opening hours are changed a few years ago. check the google or fb site for more info.
Hello Smith,
Thank you for pointing this out, we have updated the opening hours!
Enjoy your stay in Budapest!