Who better to believe about where to enjoy such pricey delights - compared to the excellent local wines and craft beers - than the best bartenders in Budapest along with tens of thousands of their colleagues around the country.

Bar-Show’s annual top list is not ranked from 1 to 10 but is presented in alphabetical order, so all the following favourites come equally highly recommended.

As you can see not all of the following are specifically ‘Cocktail Bars’, hence the title of this piece, still each one in this collection of cocktail venues enjoys great credibility for creating outstanding mixed-drinks - both the alcohol based types and virgin versions.

Now with all that noted, here's a quick summary of the 10 winners based on votes cast in 2020
- click any title for more info.

1. Barside Budapest

Photo courtesy of Barside Budapest

The friendly bartenders really know how to please guests at this small yet cosy venue (with a terrace) located in the 7th at Madách Square, where the laid-back atmosphere tempts you to trying 'just one more' refreshing signature creation.

Address: 1075 Budapest, Madách Imre út 10.

2. Black Swan Budapest

Photo courtesy of Black Swan Budapest

This cocktail focused venue is the probably the most exclusive (and darkest) of the local speakeasy-style set, so this is your place if you fancy an upscale drinking experience.

Address: 1072 Budapest, Klauzál utca 32.

3. Boutiq’Bar Budapest

Photo courtesy of Boutiq'Bar

You'll find dim lighting and speakeasy vibes at this cocktail den which opened in 2008 - the owner Zoltán Nagy is a pioneer of the local craft cocktail movement.

Address: 1061 Budapest, Paulay Ede utca 5.

4. GoodSpirit Whiskey & Cocktail Bar

Photo courtesy of Good Spirit Bar

Boasting the city’s best selection of whiskies - as well as an amazing range of fine Armagnac, calvados, cognac, gin, mescal, rum, tequila - you're on a winner when tasting any of the craft cocktails here, especially given the expat friendly atmosphere.

Address: 1053 Budapest, Veres Pálné u. 7.

5. High Note SkyBar

Photo courtesy of High Note SkyBar

Along with sumptuous (and pricey) cocktails you can enjoy spectacular rooftop views of the best bits of Budapest (making the high price-tags understandable). 

Address: 1051 Budapest, Hercegprímás u. 5.

6. Hotsy Totsy

Photo courtesy of Hotsy Totsy 

This gem found in Budapest's party district is a dimly-lit cocktail haven set below ground, where you'll find well trained bartenders ready to prepare bespoke drinks based on your preferences.

Address: 1075 Budapest, Síp u. 24.

7. KOLLÁZS Brasserie & Bar

Photo courtesy of Kollázs Brasserie & Bar

The name Kollázs (‘Collage’ in English) refers to the creative combinations in all areas of the 5* offerings, including the craft cocktails served in fine style (and for a price) here on the corner of the Four Seasons Hotel.

Address: 1051 Budapest, Széchenyi István tér

8. Société Budapest

Photo courtesy of Société Budapest

Founded in 2018 this cultural venue quickly became famous for events and great grub as much as the wide range of craft cocktails and signature mixed-drinks.

Address: 1051 Budapest, Sas u. 15.

9. St Andrea Wine & Skybar

Photo courtesy of St Andrea Wine & Skybar

The fact this venue has a 'smart casual' dress code says a lot about the place, which offers a fine dining menu and amazing views along with excellent (yet slightly expensive) cocktails.

Address: 1051 Budapest Deák Ferenc utca 5.
 

10. Tuk Tuk Bar

Photo courtesy of Tuk Tuk Bar

Retro photos and crimson drapes evoke the hedonistic culture of Shanghai in the 20's at this little craft cocktail joint, found on a quiet street near the party district inside the Casati Boutique Hotel.

Address: 1061 Budapest, Paulay Ede u. 31.