What’s on in May: spring food and culture at Time Out Market Budapest

Spring has arrived, bringing new energy to one of the capital’s most vibrant gastronomic and cultural destinations, Time Out Market Budapest. Throughout May, visitors can enjoy fresh seasonal menus, rosé and gin tastings, and exciting spritz selections that not only elevate the culinary experience but also bring to life the light, inspiring spirit of the season. As the next chapter of the Chef’s Table series, 101 Bistro will take over the stage, presenting a multi-course Asian menu that introduces guests to the flavours and stories of North Chinese culture. Alongside the gastronomic highlights, the Market will host musical performances and sports screenings, ensuring it remains one of the city’s key spaces for shared experiences and diverse entertainment.

In May, Time Out Market Budapest continues its mission to offer visitors the freshness of spring and the richness of its food and drink offering — all brought together in one inventive programme calendar.

Time Out Market Budapest has quickly become one of the city’s liveliest meeting points, where gastronomy, culture and urban energy blend effortlessly. As the new heart of Blaha Lujza Square, the Market features eleven exciting eateries, three bars and a continuously evolving programme for those eager to immerse themselves in Budapest’s eclectic flavours and creative pulse. Everything is set for an inspiring day or a vibrant night out: communal tables, open kitchens, live music, wine tastings and special events turn every visit into an experience. Time Out Market Budapest is not simply a place to eat or drink — it is a dynamic space where the rhythm of the city surrounds you, and every visit promises something new. Open seven days a week, the Market offers a rich selection of concerts, DJ sets, themed events and family-friendly programmes — and below we present the key highlights for May.

MONTHLY SPECIAL EVENTS THIS APRIL

May 4-17, 2026: Asparagus & Strawberry Specials at the Market 🍓

From 4 to 17 May, Time Out Market Budapest invites visitors to enjoy a special asparagus-and-strawberry themed offer, showcasing the very best flavours of spring. The seasonal menu is built around fresh, peak-season ingredients, bringing the essence of spring under one roof. Guests can look forward to light, vibrant and exciting dishes such as spring asparagus with miso hollandaise and trout caviar from Szaletly; braised beef neck with green pea and asparagus risottofrom LIRA by Essência; an asparagus burger in an artisan bun from Tuning Burger; and slow-cooked pulled lamb with grilled green asparagus and pickled strawberry from Pingrumba.

“We created a special spring-inspired gua bao for the asparagus–strawberry week. Our house-made, soft gua bao is filled with grilled white and green asparagus for freshness, diced pickled strawberry for acidity, and rich duck liver adds the finishing touch. These three ingredients may seem unusual together at first, but they come together beautifully on the plate,” shared Lu Boen, owner of 101 Bistro.

Casa Christa is also preparing two seasonal spring dishes, featuring bold and refreshing pairings such as asparagus–hazelnut–harissa and strawberry–rhubarb–yoghurt–balsamic vinegar. According to head chef Keve Tóth: “We aim to create something truly special from simple ingredients, presenting each one in its best possible form. Both dishes are currently on our Balaton menu, and guests love them, so we’re excited to introduce them to the Budapest audience as well.”

László Semsei, Head Chef of Szaletly at Time Out Market Budapest, shared his thoughts on their spring asparagus dish: “Our dish is built on a harmony of flavours, elevated to the next level through our creativity. On the plate, guests can enjoy asparagus sourced from local producer, Farm to Fork. The charred asparagus develops a subtle smoky note, further enhanced by the salty character of caviar. Our hollandaise sauce is enriched with burnt garlic cream, miso paste and white wine vinegar, making it not only intense but a true umami bomb. Additional visual appeal, flavour and texture come from the gravlax-style egg yolk and the powdered green herbs. Puffed quinoa adds a light, crisp finish that completes the dish. It is a simple yet exceptional creation — the result of teamwork, reflecting the knowledge and passion of every member of our kitchen.”

Full menu:

101 Bistro

Spring Bao 101 – 4950 Ft

LIRA by Essência

Braised beef with green peas and asparagus risotto – 7250 Ft

Anyukám Mondta

Carbonara & Asparagi (asparagus pizza) – 5250 Ft

Pingrumba

Slow-cooked pulled lamb with grilled green asparagus and pickled strawberry – 5850 Ft

Tuning Burger

Asparagus burger (artisan bun, aioli, Hungarian grey cattle beef patty, grilled asparagus with parmesan, bacon, arugula) – 4850 Ft

Szaletly

Spring asparagus (with miso hollandaise sauce and trout caviar) – 4950 Ft

Bigfish

Strawberry cheesecake – 2850 Ft

Casa Christa

Asparagus, hazelnut, harissa (vegan) – 4950 Ft
Strawberry, rhubarb, yogurt, balsamic vinegar – 3850 Ft

Prices are indicated in Hungarian Forint and include VAT. A 5% service charge is not included in the listed prices and will be added to the final bill.

If you missed it - Heavenly Hungarian classic: How to make perfect túrógombóc at home

Wednesday, 6 May 2026: World of Spritz with Anna Szolnoki 🍹

Discover the vibrant world of spritzes at a special evening at Time Out Market Budapest! On 6 May from 6:00 PM, participants can taste four carefully selected spritz cocktails while gaining insight into the exciting universe of low-ABV drinks. Throughout the evening, Anna Szolnoki, Brand Ambassador of Pernod Ricard, will share stories about the history, contemporary role, and latest trends of low-ABV beverages — making this event not only a tasting, but an inspiring experience filled with flavours and knowledge.

The tasting will include the following drinks:
– Lillet Rosé Pink Tonic
– Ramazzotti Limoncello Spritz
– Italicus Grapefruit Soda
– Kwai Feh Hibiscus Tonic

An evening where fresh flavours, new inspirations, and cocktail culture come together.
Capacity is limited, and the participation fee is HUF 6,000 / person.

Saturday, 9 May 2026: TADAM x Time Out Market Budapest 🎵

On 9 May, Time Out Market Budapest is set to level up once again: this Saturday, one of the most original party series from Budapest and Vienna — TADAM — returns to the Market for the fifth time. Known for its distinctive venues and raw, energetic sound, TADAM is an event built around the pulse of the city and the power of community. Much like the philosophy of Time Out Market, it celebrates connection — shared food, drinks, conversations, and quality music in a vibrant setting.

On this special night, the worlds of TADAM and Time Out Market Budapest come together once again to deliver a unique, full-evening house music experience. From 19:30 onwards, TheFirth and Ādem will be behind the decks, bringing house beats throughout the night. Admission is free.

Time Out Market Budapest’s full food and drink offering will be available during the event.

Friday, 15 May 2026: All In Rosé Tasting 🍷

Rosé, summer vibes, and an evening dedicated to easy-going flavours. At the All In Rosé Tasting by Bortársaság & Time Out Market Budapest, rosé takes center stage for one night: fresh, fruity wines, a laid-back atmosphere, and sips that capture the best moments of the season – 30 different rosés under one roof. Rosé is one of summer’s most iconic wine styles – vibrant, crisp, refreshing, playful yet elegant. It’s the perfect choice for long conversations, relaxed evenings, and those moments when you simply want to enjoy the ambiance. The event will take place in the Greenhouse at Time Out Market Budapest, where natural light, lush greenery, and a clean, airy space come together to create the ideal summery backdrop for a rosé-focused night.

Your ticket includes 6 tasting tokens, offering the chance to explore just how diverse rosé can be – from bright, crisp, dry styles to rounder, fruit-forward expressions. An evening where rosé is not just a drink, but a mood.

Tuesday, 19 May 2026: Provence Rosé Night 🍷

An Evening in Provence — in the Heart of Budapest! The May special edition of the Time Out Market Wine Club brings the effortless elegance of the French Riviera to center stage: rosé wines, sun-kissed vibes, and iconic estates all in one unforgettable night. From Saint-Tropez to the Luberon, guests will journey through Provence while tasting some of the region’s finest rosés.

Wines featured during the tasting include:

– Marrenon Petula Rosé MAGNUM

– Marrenon Oris Luberon Rosé

– Vignobles Torpez Bravade Rosé

– Vignobles Torpez Château La Moutte Rosé

– Miraval Studio by Miraval

– Château Miraval Rosé

– Domaines Ott Château Romassan Rosé 2022 MAGNUM

– Domaines Ott Château Romassan Rosé 2019 MATHUSALEM

One of the evening’s highlights will be the opening of the iconic 6-liter bottle — a rare and celebratory moment. This is not a traditional wine tasting, but a state of mind: a summer evening infused with the spirit of Provence, even before summer truly begins. Capacity is extremely limited, so securing tickets early is highly recommended.

Thursday, 21 May 2026: Chef’s Table – 101 Bistro 🍜

Launched in February, the Chef’s Table series showcases one Time Out Market Budapest restaurant each month.For one exclusive evening, guests are invited behind the scenes to discover the stories, inspirations and signature dishes of the featured chefs — including creations not available on the Market’s daily menu. Each event offers an intimate, limited-seat dining experience, where the restaurant’s chef or owner personally guides guests through the culinary journey, shares insights about the specially crafted menu, and brings the restaurant’s story to life.

The May Chef’s Table with 101 Bistro is inspired by their latest menu collection, Back to the Roots. Throughout the evening, guests are invited on a culinary journey to Northern China — the region where 101 Bistro’s co-owner, Lu Boen, was born.

In Northern Chinese cuisine, wheat plays a central role, which means noodles, dumplings and flatbreads are more common than rice-based dishes. Classic staples include jiaozi (filled dumplings), hand-pulled noodles and a variety of steamed or fried noodle dishes. The flavour profile is typically saltier and more robust, with generous use of garlic, onion, vinegar and soy sauce. Because of the colder climate, dishes tend to be heartier and more substantial — rich stews, braised meats and fermented vegetables are all characteristic of the region. One of the most iconic dishes is Peking duck, which will of course be featured on the evening’s menu. With this Chef’s Table, 101 Bistro aims to bring Northern Chinese culture closer to guests — not only through flavours, but through Lu Boen’s personal stories as well.

If you missed it: Danube sightseeing cruises and family-themed boat trips launch for the season in Hungary!

Wednesday, 27 May 2026: Gin Tasting with Anna Szolnoki 🍸

Dive into the world of gin at a special tasting evening at Time Out Market Budapest! At the Gin Tasting with Anna Szolnoki event, guests will explore the evolution of gin while discovering the diversity of this iconic spirit through a selection of premium labels.

Throughout the evening, participants will gain insight into the unique characteristics, production methods and flavour profiles of each gin, making the experience not only enjoyable but also an engaging introduction to the world of gin.

The tasting will feature the following selections:
– Plymouth Gin
– Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin
– Beefeater Crown Jewel
– Monkey 47
– Monkey 47 Sloe Gin

An evening where bold flavours and the stories behind them take centre stage. Capacity is limited, and the participation fee is HUF 3,000 / person.

Saturday, 30 May 2026: UEFA Champions League Final Live Screening ⚽

In May, Time Out Market Budapest takes on a truly sporty atmosphere, with live screenings of UEFA Champions League matches throughout the month. Guests can enjoy the excitement of the games alongside fresh, flavourful dishes and ice-cold beers, creating the ultimate match-day experience. The highlight arrives on 30 May at 18:00, when the final will be broadcast live on a large LED screen in the central space, allowing guests to experience every moment together with a crowd of fellow fans. Admission is free, but table reservations are recommended to fully enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the thrill of the match in comfort.

WHAT’S NEW AT TIME OUT MARKET BUDAPEST

Brunch at the Market ☕

The weekend brunch offer launched in April continues throughout May at Time Out Market Budapest. Every Saturday and Sunday, between 11:30 and 15:30, guests are invited to enjoy a relaxed late-morning dining experience, where great flavours meet a laid-back atmosphere. The brunch experience is complemented by Spirit Bar, bringing together the world of specialty coffee, creative brunch drinks and carefully selected craft beers in a relaxed yet refined setting. Classic cocktail foundations are reimagined with fresh, seasonal ingredients and modern flavour profiles.

Brunch cocktail selection:
– Brunch Time Specials
– Absolut Tabasco Bloody Mary
– Time Out Market Bellini
– Eye-Opener (non-alcoholic super juice)
– Almost Bottomless Mimosa (0.95L)

The Market’s brunch offer is the perfect choice for a leisurely late breakfast, a social gathering or a spontaneous weekend escape – a fast, enjoyable and high-quality urban experience that fits seamlessly into the Market’s vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re drawn to brunch culture, signature dishes or exciting drinks, Spirit Bar awaits you every weekend.

New concept at Spirit Bar 🥂

The Spirit Bar at Time Out Market Budapest is a meeting point where the world of specialty coffee, the freshness of creative brunch drinks, and the character of carefully selected craft beers come together in harmony. Its relaxed yet refined atmosphere provides the perfect backdrop for a new kind of experience within the Market.The cocktail selection is rooted in classic recipes, yet each drink is reimagined in a fresh, contemporary and sophisticated way. Modern flavour profiles, seasonal inspiration and high-quality fresh ingredients combine to create an experience that goes beyond a simple refreshment — every sip brings a new mood.

The refreshed menu features not only craft beers and specialty coffees, but also light and refreshing spritz variations such as Limoncello Spritz, Lillet Melon Spritz and Negroni Sbagliato. Brunch-inspired signatures include the Absolut Tabasco Bloody Mary and the Time Out Market Bellini, while classic favourites return with a modern twist, such as the Espresso Martini Highball and Rosemary Cape Cod. All of this is available at a friendly price point of approximately HUF 3,000–4,000, making it an ideal choice for a relaxed after-work drink or an easy evening unwind at the Market.

New dishes at the Market’s restaurant lineup 🍽️

This spring, new flavours arrive at Time Out Market Budapest as several restaurants launch refreshed seasonal menus. LIRA by Essência introduces new pasta dishes that instantly evoke a Mediterranean atmosphere: tagliatelle with Bolognese ragu and parmesan, as well as black linguine with red prawns, basil and lime, offering a fresh take for lovers of seafood flavours. Starters include Spanish gazpacho, crispy polenta with truffle mayonnaise, and a classic Caesar salad.

At 101 Bistro, the renewed menu features a selection of wok dishes with tofu, chicken or duck, along with two exciting bao options: pulled duck and Taiwanese-style fried chicken, designed for fans of Asian cuisine. The dessert selection includes Boba Cream Tea with Tanghulu — a lactose-free speciality combining Oolong tea custard, seasonal fruit skewers and black sesame meringue.

Szaletly’s new offering includes beef tenderloin carpaccio aged with Vida Kadarka and fresh accompaniments, a Waldorf-inspired starter, and a main-course salad with optional toppings such as mangalica sausage, roast pork or cordon bleu — ideal for lovers of traditional Hungarian flavours.

This spring, every flavour tells a new story — discover them at the Market! Table reservations and ticket are available here: BOOKING

Latest gastro article - ÉS Bisztró is back: Kempinski Corvinus Budapest reopens its revamped bistro